Two Buckeyes Taken In MLS SuperDraft – Ohio State Buckeyes
1/18/2003 12:00:00 AM | Men's Soccer
Jan. 18, 2003
COLUMBUS, Ohio-Two Ohio State men’s soccer players, Andy Rosenband (Sr., Hammond, Ind.) and Jake Traeger (Sr., Littleton, Colo.), were drafted Friday in the 2003 Major League Soccer SuperDraft in Kansas City. Rosenband was chosen as the 52nd overall pick in the 6th round by the Dallas Burn. Traeger also was selected in the sixth round by the Columbus Crew at No. 58.
Rosenband and Traeger are the first-ever Buckeyes to be selected in the MLS Draft. The six round draft featured the selection of 60 players.
“We’re extremely proud and happy for Andy and Jake,” John Bluem, Ohio State head coach, said. “This is the first time in our history that we’ve had players selected in the MLS Draft. We’re all very excited and I wish them both the best of luck.”
Serving as the leader of the Buckeye defense, Traeger was one of only four Buckeyes to start all 19 games in 2002. A versatile and athletic defender, he helped Ohio State record a conference-leading nine shutouts while recording one assist in the final regular season game at Northwestern. Traeger was a 2002 First Team All-Big Ten and All-Ohio selection and a second team NSCAA Great Lakes Region selection as a defender.
“It’s a great honor and I’m very excited about the opportunity to play for the Crew,” Traeger said. “To get the chance to play right here in Columbus is very exciting.”
Rosenband once again led the Buckeyes in every offensive category. He recorded seven goals (four game-winners) and six assists for 20 points, took 70 total shots and started all 19 games for the Buckeyes at the forward position. He was named Big Ten Offensive Player of the Week twice (Sept. 2 and Nov. 11) and was a 2002 First Team All-Ohio honoree and a second team All-Big Ten selection. He also was a second team NSCAA Great Lakes Region selection.
“I was in shock when Dallas called me,” Rosenband said. “It’s such an awesome feeling and a dream come true to get a chance to play in the MLS. Being the first Buckeye chosen is very exciting.”
Complete Draft Recap
