MLS ABCs: Generation Adidas
In the next installm
ent from the GoSounders.com MLS ABCs series we will look at Generation Adidas players…
MLS & Nike created a program to elevate the talent of youth soccer development in the US. Originally called Project-40, the program has since become sponsored by Adidas and is now referred to as Generation Adidas.
The aim of the project is to develop youth players for early entry into MLS. There the players will be able to play and train full-time with a club and a grant to continue their education in the future. GA players do not count against the senior roster for MLS teams. Current GA players for a team are automatically protected in any MLS Expansion Draft.
Graduates of the program include Maurice Edu, Tim Howard, DeMarcus Beasley, Michael Bradley and Carlos Bocanegra.
Here is the list of players who are known to have signed a Generation Adidas contract for 2009…
- Kevin Alston, D, Indiana, Jr., 5’8”, 150
- Daniel Cruz, S, UNLV, So., 5’8″, 160
- Stefan Frei, GK, California, Jr., 6’3”, 200
- Omar Gonzalez, D, Maryland, Jr., 6’5”, 205
- Jeremy Hall, M, Maryland, Jr., 5’11”, 165
- Baggio Husidic, M, Illinois-Chicago, Jr., 6’1”, 175
- Perica Marosevic, S, Michigan, Jr., 5’9”, 160
- Rodney Wallace, D, Maryland, So., 5’11”, 150
- Steve Zakuani, S, Akron, So., 6’0”, 170
Reports note that Junior Midfielder Michael Stephens from UCLA is close to signing a GA contract with MLS. He is 5’9” and 155.
