Wednesday, March 18, 2009

Player Signings

Just a quick note. Bucks alum Eric Brunner has signed with the Columbus Crew, joining Bucks alum Pat Noonan at the club. For those that don't remember, Brunner helped lead the Bucks to the 2007 PDL North American Championship game, before falling to Laredo on penalty kicks. The 6-4 defender can play in the middle of defense as well as on the left side. The Ohio native and Buckeye alum, was originally drafted in January 2008 by the New York Red Bulls, but eventually signed with Miami FC of the USL First Division. He was in training camp with New York earlier this year, but joined up with the Crew when they returned from their trip to England two weeks ago. The Red Bulls completed the long-rumored trade of Brunner's rights to the Crew in exchange for a conditional draft pick in 2011.

Another 2007 Bucks alum, George Josten has signed with the Portland Timbers of the USL First Division. The striker spent last season with the Crew and had a loan spell with the Cleveland City Stars of the USL Second Division.

Speaking of Cleveland, Bucks right back for the last two years, Kyle Russell is on trial with the newly promoted USL First Division side. Russell trained earlier this month with the Charleston Battery. A number of player moves should be announced in the coming days as MLS sides finalized their rosters and USL teams begin to sign more players. Watch this space.

Monday, March 16, 2009

Giving Blood and Getting Cookies

Every three months I donate blood to the American Red Cross, which I’m about to go do as soon as I finish this post. I’d like to say it’s because I want to help save lives, but to be honest its about the two packs of Chips Ahoy (three packs if I flirt with the nurse) that I receive afterwards. Sure saving lives feels great, but how often do I get free cookies? Speaking of which, did anyone see the Office two weeks ago?

We’re getting ready to announce some big things for the season. I know the excitement is killing everyone, anticipating the anticipation is extremely hard work. Just dotting T’s, crossing I’s and making you all wait a bit longer for it.

In going with my anticipation theme, I can say that at least two Bucks alumni are set to sign for MLS teams this week, ahead of MLS First Kick this Thursday between New York and Seattle. For those interested, the Motor City Supporters will be holding a viewing party for the game at Station 885 in Plymouth, which proudly hangs a Michigan Bucks scarf in their bar, starting at 9:00 PM. You can RSVP for the event via Facebook.

Finally, while I find it very difficult to pay attention when a basketball game is on, March Madness is upon us. What else would the Bucks front office do but create a pool for our fans to participate in? I’m happy to see Michigan was selected for the first time in eleven years, but I plan on picking these games based on which mascots I like the most. To join click here.

Group ID#: 110804
Password: bucks

Off to get my cookies.