Sounders U-23’s Anthony Arena picked in MLS Supplemental Draft

Anthony Arena,left, goes from Sounders U-23′s to MLS via draft. (Dale Garvey)

TACOMA, Wash.—(press release) Sounders U-23 alum Anthony Arena was drafted today to Major League Soccer in the Supplemental Draft by the Houston Dynamo. Arena was drafted with the 18th selection of the MLS Supplemental Draft 1st Round.

An instrumental defender for the Sounders FC U-23, Anthony Arena helped the team secure the Western Conference Championship. Arena anchored a back line toward the Sounders U-23 run to the national semi-finals, losing to eventual national champions; FC London. Anthony logged over 840 minutes in ten matches before the top echelon student returned to Wake Forest to complete his degree.

“Anthony is a competitor and a good leader, we are very happy that he was selected and wish him the best as he heads into his preseason,” said Darren Sawatzky.

In an interview for SoundersU23.com, this summer, Anthony Arena said, “It’s been my dream for awhile [to play MLS]. It all depends on my performance individually and our team.  One of the biggest things for guys that move onto the next level is how their team does.  If the team does well then it’s better for the individuals on the team.”

The Houston Dynamo had no picks during the MLS SuperDraft, so Arena, and Supplemental Draftees from the 3rd and 4th Rounds; Nic Ryan and Yannick Smith are the only draftees to the MLS Cup runner-up.

MLS Scout profile page – http://www.mlssoccer.com/players/anthony-arena

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