SECAUCUS, N.J. - In the second round of the 2006 MLS SuperDraft (#17 overall), the MetroStars selected 16-year-old forward Josmer Altidore. Altidore- a 5'10'' 175-pound striker born in Newark, NJ- scored 19 goals as a member of the 2005 United States U-17 Men's National Team in just 25 games played.
"I can't wait for our fans to see Josie," said MetroStars President and General Manager Alexi Lalas. "He is a 16-year-old phenom with the potential to have as big an impact on and off the field as (DC United midfielder) Freddy Adu."
"Josie is a strong, quick, exciting young player," said MetroStars Head Coach Mo Johnston. "I think he is going to become the future of the MetroStars and U.S. Soccer. I am very, very, very happy that we were able to get him at number 17 (overall in the draft)."
Currently a senior at Boca Prep HS, Altidore has played on his high school's varsity soccer team since 7th grade and was the team MVP as an 8th grader in 2003. He has played for Boca Juniors since 2000 and helped lead his club to the Florida State Championship in 2003.
"Right now I am feeling butterflies," said Altidore. "I am very excited to get to New York and play with the guys. I can't wait to learn from them. There are a lot of experienced guys there and I hope I can help the club win the championship."
Altidore was the MetroStars second draft choice of the day. Earlier in the afternoon, the "Red and Black" traded up to number one overall and selected defender Marvell Wynne with the first pick of the draft.
