Mr. Zero – Big Apple Soccer
March 4, 2007
March 4, 2007
bigapplesocer.com
MR. ZERO
Konopka hasn’t allowed a goal for K.C.
Former Jersey Shore Boca and Providence College standout goalkeeper Chris Konopka of Toms River, N.J. wrapped-up the first phase of his MLS pre-season training camp with the Kansas City Wizards at the IMG Academy Complex in Bradenton, Fla. earlier this week.
After a few days off, Konopka rejoined the Wizards this weekend in preparation for the team’s three-week trip to Argentina.
During his time in Florida, Konopka saw action in all but one of the Wizards five pre-season games not allowing any goals.
Konopka, who was recovering from a slight illness when he arrived at Bradenton last month, saw his first action coming on in the final 30 minutes against the Columbus Crew Feb. 16.
Konopka also played with KC’s starting 11 for 30 minutes in the 0-0 draw against DC United Feb. 18 catching several dangerous crosses while making two saves and then also held the Chicago Fire scoreless for 30 minutes Feb. 21.
He capped-off his Florida MLS pre-season combining in a 3-0 shutout in 45 minutes against the U.S. Under-17 Men’s National Team last Tuesday.
The 6-5, 210-lb. Konopka was selected by Kansas City in the third round of the MLS supplemental draft as the 29th overall pick on Jan. 18. He was the first player in Providence College history to be drafted by a MLS team.
The Wizards will leave for their second leg of pre-season training in Buenos Aires, Argentina Monday and will return March 22.
While in Argentina, the Wizards will play four exhibition matches against local teams.
March 4, 2007
bigapplesocer.com