After a season that saw the D.C. United U-16 Academy make it to the playoffs, two standouts from the squad have earned end of the year awards from the United States Soccer Development Academy.
Midfielder Patrick Jean-Gilles and forward Owen Marshall were named to the Eastern Conference Best XI following the end of the 2014-15 season. Both players joined D.C. United’s Pre-Academy three years ago. Jean-Gilles, a success story from United’s affiliate program, spent one year with Arlington Soccer Club before rejoining the U-16s this season.
“Throughout their time with the club, both Patrick and Owen have characterized the Academy’s goals for player development,” said D.C. United U-16 Head Coach Tom Torres. “Besides their soccer ability, both bring an infectious attitude and tremendous effort to every training session and match.”
The recognition means as much to D.C. United, a club that recognizes youth development as a key to success, as it does to Jean-Gilles and Owen.
“We are extremely proud of Patrick’s and Owen’s individual accomplishment,” said Torres. “It is a compliment and honor for any of the club’s academy players to receive this type of recognition. We look forward to continuing to work on their overall development as top players and people.”
For the full list of awards, click here.
