Jan. 16, 2008
CHICAGO - For the second consecutive year Dayton Flyer alum Chris Rolfe will participate with the U.S. Soccer National Team.
Rolfe is one of 26 named to the training camp roster that began workouts earlier this month at the U.S. Soccer's National Training Center at The Home Depot Center in Carson, Calif. The group will prepare for the USA's first match of 2008, a friendly against Sweden on Jan. 19 at The Home Depot Center.
As UD's all-time assist leader with 25, Rolfe was selected to the 2004 NSCAA/adidas Men's NCAA Division I All-America Second Team by the National Soccer Coaches Association of America, and was a First Team All-Atlantic 10 pick. Rolfe ranks sixth in career goals (31) and third in points (87).
Rolfe was drafted by the Fire in 2005 and scored eight goals and five assists in 29 contests. He finished the 2006 MLS season with seven goals - just one shy of his 2005 team-leading total - and one assist in 21 games.
The largely domestic-based U.S. squad includes 23 players who ply their trade in the United States. The MLS teams are well represented, with 13 of 14 clubs contributing players to the Carson camp. The roster boasts several year-end award winners, including MLS Goalkeeper of the Year (Brad Guzan), Defender of the Year (Michael Parkhurst) and Rookie of the Year (Maurice Edu).
In international play, Rolfe earned the first of four senior international caps on Nov. 12, 2005 at Scotland, coming in during the 58th minute in the USA's 1-1 draw in Glasgow. He tallied his first start and assist for the U.S. MNT on Feb. 19, 2006 against Guatemala, playing 80 minutes en route to a 4-0 win. Then U.S. Manager Bruce Arena named him as one of 12 alternates for the USA's 2006 World Cup squad.
Last year Rolfe started against Denmark in a 3-1 win and against Mexico in a 2-0 victory.
Rolfe played on the Chicago Fire of the MLS last season and scored six goals and three assists in 19 games.
Rolfe is one of six former Flyers that are currently playing professional soccer in North America and Europe.
