Seattle Sounders has announced the signings of a few homegrown players such as Sean Okoli of Federal Way and Asron Kovar of Seattle.
“Being able to add two young and talented players is a good thing. It’s also very important that Sounders Academy kids can see a pathway onto the first team.” The head coach Sigi Schmid said during a news release.
The MLS side also managed to re-sign the veteran goalkeeper Marcus Hahnemann as the shot-stopper will be making his return to the club where he has already spent 2 season. Hahnemann has made 9 appearances for the USA national team and the sporting director of the Seattle Sounders Chris Henderson spoke about what it is having Hahnemann back into the club and the team.
“We are looking forward to having Marcus back in a Sounders FC uniform,” said Sounders FC Chris Henderson in a statement. “He will continue to add veteran leadership and has proven to be solid between the posts. Marcus has had a fantastic career for club and country and we are proud he will be staying with his hometown team.”
Sean Okoli and Aaron Kovar join De Andre Yedlin as the franchise’s only signings who came up through the youth academy system. Okoli has scored 24 goals and provided 9 assists during 3 seasons at Wake Forest while Kovar has also received a number of accolades and awards when he stayed at Stanford for 2 seasons.
Both players said just how excited they were on joining the club and being part of it.
“I’ve been waiting for this moment for a long time. I can’t wait to play at CenturyLink in front of all of the fans. I am excited to help the team win games, score goals and really get my career started.” Okoli said.
“I feel honored to be part of this club. I’ve been a fan since I was 10 years old going to USL games with my dad. It’s obviously a difficult decision, but this has been my dream for as long as I can remember and I’ve worked really hard to get here. I’m excited to be part of my hometown club, to meet all my teammates and get ready for the preseason.” Kovar’s statement during a press conference.