TORONTO LYNX MEDIA RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE LYNX SELECT TWO LOCAL STANDOUTS IN ANNUAL USL PLAYER DRAFT TUESDAY JANUARY 24, 2006 (TORONTO, ON) The Toronto Lynx participated in the 2006 USL First Division College Player Draft this afternoon and selected two local players as part of their mandate to develop pro soccer talent in this country. With their first pick, second overall, the club selected East York’s Costa Kyritsis from the University of Hartford. The tenacious midfielder was named to the America East’s Commissioner’s Honour Roll for three straight seasons for his exceptional play. At East York Collegiate, he led the Goliaths to three straight Toronto championships and was team captain, MVP and leading scorer in his senior season. He also won three Ontario Cup titles and one National Club Championship during his youth soccer career. The Lynx then selected midfielder Andy Garcia from St. Bonaventure University in Buffalo with their second round choice, 14th overall. The Mississauga native captained the Bonnies last season, and was named All-Conference and All-Region for the second consecutive year. He also ranks fourth in school history with 13 assists. The 5’10 playmaker attended Father Goetz Secondary School and was a member of the U20 Canadian squad that represented the country at the FIFA 2003 World Youth Championships. He has earned 4 caps throughout his career for Canada. Throughout the years, a number of Lynx stars have made their way to the club via the draft, including current players Theo Zagar, Robbie Aristodemo and Joe Mattacchione. First-year club FC Miami selected John Paul Rodrigues from Belmont University with the first overall pick. Rodrigues played 33 games over two seasons as well with the Nashville Metros of the USL’s Premier Development League. The Lynx’ begin their 10th campaign on Saturday April 22 in Virginia Beach against the Mariners. The 2006 Home Opener is scheduled for Saturday May 13 at 4:00 PM versus the Rochester Raging Rhinos at Centennial Park Stadium in Etobicoke. -30- FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT: ROB IRWIN, DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS, TORONTO LYNX SOCCER CLUB 416-251-4625 ext. 23
.
.