July 16, 2009

CARSON, Calif. – U.S. Soccer has announced Dillon Powers (Plano, Texas/Plano Senior) as the Development Academy Co-Player of the Year. Powers is an incoming freshman for the Notre Dame men’s soccer team. Ruben Luna was the other co-player of the year. The awards were voted upon by Development Academy clubs and U.S. Soccer National Staff Coaches and technical advisors.

Powers, who plays club soccer for Andromeda, was instrumental in his team’s successful season. The midfielder played hard on both sides of the ball to lead his team to a top finish in the Texas division.

Powers has spent time with the U.S. U-18 Men’s National Team and was part of the squad that won the Australia Youth Olympic Festival in January. He also recently returned from a trip to Egypt with the U-20 Men’s National Team, where he helped the team earn a win and a draw against the 2009 FIFA U-20 World Cup hosts.

Powers also earned 2008-09 Gatorade Boys Soccer Player of the Year honors before his whirlwind year came full circle with the Development Academy honor.

“This past year I’ve developed more than any other year in my career,” said Powers. “Last year I wasn’t part of the national teams and I’m just thankful for the opportunities that I’ve had. I’m enjoying the time right now and trying to be satisfied as I’m working toward the next goal, but it goes to show, I think from my experience, that the Development Academy can really help players.”

U.S. Under-20 Men’s National Team head coach Thomas Rongen considers Powers a player that will be under serious consideration as he puts together his team for the FIFA U-20 World Cup later this fall.

“There is something about his ease on the ball, his tactical awareness during the game,” Rongen said. “He’s got good soccer intelligence over 90 minutes, he’s a good athlete, a strong player, and those are important components to succeed on the highest levels.”

— ND —