Washington, D.C. - D.C. United announced today the club has named John Maessner as its Director of Youth Development. Maessner spent six seasons in Major League Soccer, including four with United, as he helped the Black-and-Red to MLS Cup championships in 1996, 1997 and 1999. Further details regarding United's 2007 Youth Development programs will be announced in the near future.
"We are thrilled that John Maessner is coming back to D.C. United to head our youth development program," said United Technical Director Dave Kasper. "John understands what it's like to be a talented youth soccer player in this country and what the challenges are to fulfill the dream of playing professional soccer. I am confident that he will create the environment at United that will foster the growth of the top metropolitan D.C. players playing in D.C. United's youth system. We look forward to having John take our youth program to the next level."
In four seasons with United, Maessner saw time in 73 total games, collecting seven goals and 14 assists. He was instrumental in three MLS Cup championships, starting every game during the '96 and '99 playoffs and notching two assists during the '97 run to the title.
"I think everyone can be very excited about the future of this program and the future of youth development in this country," said Maessner. "Major League Soccer has made a serious commitment to Youth Development with its new initiative starting in 2007 as all MLS teams are to have at least two youth teams to train and compete year-round. MLS has now created an opportunity for young soccer players to have the ability to develop as a player through their MLS Youth Club team. Eventually, after meeting certain requirements, it will be possible to sign a professional contract with that club, through the Home Grown Player System, without having to go through the draft. This is a big step forward in youth development for this country and I am very excited to be a part of it.
"I have had great experiences and successes with D.C. United as a player, winning three MLS Cup championships, and have developed and maintained special relationships throughout the years with the D.C. United family which makes accepting this position even more meaningful for me and my family. I would like to thank D.C. United, Kevin Payne and Dave Kasper for this great opportunity and look forward to getting started."
Tryouts for all United youth teams will likely be held in January. Please continue to check dcunited.com for locations and times. For more information on D.C. United's youth development program, please contact Greg Steininger, United's Youth Development Coordinator, at (202) 587-5468.
