D.C. United announced today the three nominees up for 2012 Hall of Tradition, presented by GEICO, induction – Carlos Llamosa, Ben Olsen and Tony Sanneh. Each iconic players for the Black-and-Red in their own right, only one will earn United’s most prestigous honor as a result of a fan vote on dcunited.com. Voting is now open with all participants provided a chance to win two tickets with field-side access for the induction match, set for September 15 when United faces the New England Revolution. Kickoff for the match is set 7:30 p.m. ET.
A D.C. United star from 1996-2000, defender
Carlos Llamosa
is still remembered for his physical ability to halt opposing attacks, coupled with the skill to return the ball into dangerous positions for his club. While with the Black-and-Red, he was a part of three MLS Cup titles (1996, 1997 and 1999), a U.S. Open Cup championship (1996), two Supporters’ Shields (1997 and 1999) and the 1998 Champions’ Cup and InterAmerican Cup victories. A 1999 MLS All-Star selection, Llamosa finished his United career with 83 appearances (75 starts) in League play.
A skilled and fiery midfielder,
Ben Olsen
is among the most popular players to ever don the Black-and-Red. Olsen joined D.C. United in 1998 as a highly regarded prospect out of the University of Virginia, with his stellar 11-year playing career boosted by an unwavering commitment to the club. Olsen played a part in two MLS Cup titles (1999 and 2004), three Supporters’ Shields (1999, 2006 and 2007), 1998 Champions’ Cup and InterAmerican Cup victories, and a U.S. Open Cup championship (2008). Individually, he was a member of the 2007 MLS Best XI, was the 1999 MLS Cup MVP, was honored as an All-Star on five occasions (1998, 1999, 2001, 2004 and 2006), and was the 1998 MLS Rookie of the Year and the 2003 USSF MLS Humanitarian of the Year. Olsen retired on November 24, 2009, ranking second in for the club in all-time MLS games played and started (221 and 200, respectively), second in minutes played (17, 098), third in assists (49), and seventh in goals (29).
In just three seasons with D.C. United,
Tony Sanneh
remains one of the most accomplished players to ever represent the club. Known affectionately as the ‘Big Cat,’ Sanneh patrolled the left flank for the Black-and-Red with a quiet tenacity. He was central to two MLS Cup titles (1996 and 1997), a U.S. Open Cup championship (1996), a Supporters’ Shield win (1997) and 1998 Champions’ Cup and InterAmerican Cup victories. Sanneh finished his career with the Black-and-Red with 14 goals and 25 assists in 71 League appearances (69 starts).
Voting has ended. We'll announce the winner on dcunited.com, Twitter and Facebook. The sweepstakes winner will be contacted directly by phone or e-mail.
