 "Photo: David Heasley")
Two of Ohio State's stand-out soccer players were drafted in the third round of the Major League Soccer SuperDraft held at the Pennsylvania Convention Center in Philadelphia on Friday.
Kyle Veris, a senior in pre-human development and family science, was the first pick of the third round -- the 25th pick overall - by the L.A. Galaxy, the defending MLS Cup champions.
Veris said that he had no prior knowledge that he was going to be drafted.
"It was a total surprise," Veris said. "My agent was supposed to let me know ahead of time, and I had no knowledge that L.A. wanted me."
When hearing of the news that he was drafted, Veris was overwhelmed.
"I was pretty ecstatic. I jumped up and ran outside," Veris said. "All of my friends called to congratulate me."
Ray Burse Jr., a senior in history, was the first goalkeeper selected in the draft, taken 30th overall by F.C. Dallas.
Burse said that going into the draft he had an idea that he was going to be selected at some point.
"I felt that I had a pretty good chance. I had a solid combine," Burse said.
Burse said that he is ready to move on now that the draft is completed.
"I was excited of course, but I am relieved that the process is over," Burse said.
John Bluem, head coach for the OSU men's soccer team, said that Burse and Veris were two outstanding players for the university's program.
"The MLS has been watching and tracking these two guys for a while," Bluem said.
Bluem said that hard work and athletic ability are what set Veris and Burse apart from other players, making them worthy of professional status.
"Athletic ability is what really pushed them over the top," Bluem said. "You cannot coach that into somebody. Either you have it or you don't -- and they do. Now that they have this chance they need to go out and even work harder."
Veris said that confidence, his physical size and ability are a few of his many strong points as a soccer player.
Being a goalkeeper, Burse depends on his speed and talents to get him by.
"I am not the most technical goalkeeper, but I can compensate with my athletic ability," Burse said.
Veris and Burse both said that they believe the transition to the MLS from college will not be very tough.
"It won't be that hard of a transition, I have been playing with the Columbus Crew guys," Veris said. "I have a lot to learn, but I am pretty much ready."
Burse said that his past two summers spent training with the Crew will make his transition to a professional level much easier.
Bluem, however, said he thinks the two stars will have a somewhat difficult transition.
"I think they will have a tough time," Bluem said. "The season is much longer, going from a four month season to an eight or nine month season."
Although Veris and Burse may struggle at first, Bluem said that they are both very capable of succeeding.
Veris sees himself having a long career and hopes that in a few years he can live up to his goal of playing overseas.
Bluem said that the big money and fame is overseas in Europe, and hopes that both have a successful long-term career.
"We are extremely proud, and hope the very best for both of them," Bluem said.
Be the first to comment on this article!