Dynamo Theory - 2013 Offseason MovesYou may all go to hell and I will support the Dynamo.https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/48763/dynamotheory-fave.png2013-02-25T15:38:18-06:00http://www.dynamotheory.com/rss/stream/34922852013-02-25T15:38:18-06:002013-02-25T15:38:18-06:00Chewy Returns to Dynamo
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<figcaption>Bob Levey</figcaption>
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<p>Mike Chabala has returned to the Houston Dynamo as added depth at left back, while Anthony Arena is expected to stay with the club. </p> <p>As expected, <span>Mike Chabala</span> has made his return to the <a href="https://www.dynamotheory.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Houston Dynamo</a>. In the clubs first ever media day, Chabala's return was announced as all the 2013 players modeled the new jerseys for the upcoming season.</p>
<p>With <span>Corey Ashe</span> listed as the only option at left back, Dominic Kinnear knew he'd have to find at least another option for back up. Chabala was expendable for <a href="https://www.blackandredunited.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">D.C. United</a> with a couple players getting ahead of him on the depth chart, so Chabala went through the Re-Entry Draft process.</p>
<p>Chabala wasn't picked up by anyone, but found himself training with the club he started with this preseason. Chabala looked at home from the first practice and with his experience at left back in a host of reserve and MLS starting jobs and with <span>Dominic Kinnear's</span> system, it was a no brainer to bring back the fan favorite.</p>
<p>I took a tour of the Dynamo locker room prior to the actual press event today and was pleased to see Chabala's jersey hanging in his locker. While I've said several times over the last few days that his signing was imminent, the jersey hanging their cemented that thought.</p>
<p>With Chabala's signing, SuperDraft pick Jimmy Nealis became the odd man out and was cut from the team after the Carolina Challenge Cup. Nealis impressed Kinnear in his time in Houston, but ultimately Chabala locked up the spot.</p>
<p>In addition, it appears Anthony Arena has won a spot with the Dynamo as well. The centerback has appeared in the majority of the preseason action and will provide depth for the defense.</p>
<p>Earlier today, his Twitter account was updated with "professional player with the Houston Dynamo." Apparently, both players used social media to update their status prior to being formally announced. Chabala updated his Facebook background to BBVA Compass Stadium last week, prompting many to assume the eventual return home. Sign of the times.</p>
<p>With the addition of Chabala and Arena, the defense appears ready for an action packed year that will see the club play at least 41 matches.</p>
<p>What are your thoughts on Chewy's return to Houston, Arena's signing, and Nealis' exit?</p>
https://www.dynamotheory.com/2013/2/25/4029210/mike-chabala-returns-to-houston-dynamoOrdinary Orange Fan2013-02-20T13:00:39-06:002013-02-20T13:00:39-06:00It is official: Dynamo ink Andy Driver from SPL
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<p>The Houston Dynamo announced today rumored Scottish Premier League target, Andy Driver, has officially inked a deal and is set to join the team soon.</p> <p>The Houston Dynamo have announced the official signing of Andy Driver. Most recently, Driver played for Hearts of the Scottish Premier League as a midfielder. Comments from team personnel have indicated they are excited by the signing and expect him to be much needed depth for the league and additional extracurricular matches ahead for the team this season.</p>
<p>Initially, this move is slated as a loan, but Driver's contract with Hearts ends in June and the Dynamo have already stepped in to sign him to a long-term deal as outlined in the official press release below:</p>
<p> </p>
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<p>HOUSTON, TX (Wednesday, Feb. 20, 2013) -- The Houston Dynamo have acquired English midfielder Andrew Driver on loan from Scottish Premier League club Heart of Midlothian F.C., it was announced today. The signing is pending the receipt of Driver’s P-1 visa and International Transfer Certificate.</p>
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<p>Driver, 25, made 168 appearances and scored 19 goals in seven seasons with Hearts. The Oldham, England native made 28 appearances for the Jambos this season, including two in the Europa League, tallying two goals and an assist. The 5-foot-9 winger signed with the senior club in 2003 from the Hearts Academy.</p>
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<p>“Andrew is good at taking people on, he crosses a good ball and can take set pieces,” said Dynamo head coach Dominic Kinnear. “He is a hard-working player and I think he will definitely fit in with the team. He has a good attitude on the field and is versatile. He can play on the left or right side of midfield.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Driver moved to Edinburgh, Scotland at age 11 and joined the Hearts Academy. He played with the English U21 national team at the 2009 European Championships and is now eligible to play for the Scottish national team. Alongside Giles Barnes, Driver becomes the second player from the UK to join the club in the past year. Barnes signed with the Dynamo on August 29, 2012 after playing at Doncaster.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>“I am very excited about the opportunity to come and play for the Dynamo,” Driver said. “I have followed MLS over the years and Houston has stood out as one of the top teams. I know a lot of success has been because of the work of Dominic Kinnear, so I am delighted to have the chance to learn from him and improve as a player under him.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Driver is known as a wide player versatile enough to play on the left or right side of the field. He adds depth to a midfield that includes Brad Davis, Boniek Garcia, Ricardo Clark, Adam Moffat, Luiz Camargo and Barnes.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>“It’s always exciting to add a young international player with talent and experience,” said Dynamo President Chris Canetti. “Andrew will add valuable depth to the squad at a time when we are set to face a heavy load of games between MLS and Champions League.</p>
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<p>The Dynamo open the 2013 season on Saturday, March 2 when they host D.C. United at BBVA Compass Stadium in a rematch of the 2012 Eastern Conference Championship. Tickets are on sale for the first 5 games at <a href="http://www.houstondynamo.com/tickets" target="_blank">www.houstondynamo.com/tickets</a>. Dynamo full-season ticket packages start at $400 and include 20 home games. To purchase your package or for more information on 2013 season tickets, call (713) 276-GOAL.</p>
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<p>ANDREW DRIVER</p>
<p>Full Name: Andrew Driver</p>
<p>Position: Midfielder</p>
<p>Height: 5’10” Weight: 175 lbs.</p>
<p>Date of Birth: November 20, 1987</p>
<p>Birthplace: Saddleworth, Oldham, England</p>
<p>Citizenship: Scotland</p>
<p>Last Club: Heart of Midlothian F.C. (Scotland)</p>
<p>How Acquired: On loan from Hearts</p>
<p> </p>
<p>ABOUT THE HOUSTON DYNAMO</p>
<p>The Houston Dynamo are a Major League Soccer club that has won two MLS Cup championships and four conference championships in its first seven seasons and qualified to represent the United States in international competition six times, including the 2013-14 CONCACAF Champions League. The team currently trains in the Methodist Champions’ Field at Houston Amateur Sports Park (HASP), the premier training facility in Southeast Texas, and plays at BBVA Compass Stadium in downtown Houston. For more information, log on to <a href="http://www.HoustonDynamo.com" target="_blank">www.HoustonDynamo.com</a> or call <a href="tel:%28713%29%20276-7500" value="+17132767500" target="_blank">(713) 276-7500</a>.</p>
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https://www.dynamotheory.com/2013/2/20/4009286/dynamo-sign-andrew-driver-hearts-spl-mlsFuzion2013-02-19T19:25:59-06:002013-02-19T19:25:59-06:00Je-Vaughn Watson Traded to FC Dallas
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<p>Jamaican midfielder Je-Vaughn Watson will move a bit further north after the Dynamo have traded him to FC Dallas.</p> <p>The <a href="https://www.dynamotheory.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Houston Dynamo</a> announced the trade of Jamaican midfielder <span>Je-Vaughn Watson</span> to <a href="https://www.bigdsoccer.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">FC Dallas</a> for a second round 2015 MLS SuperDraft pick. With the trade, the Dynamo seemed to clear the way to move Hearts midfielder Andrew Driver to the club since Watson's move opens an international roster spot.</p>
<p>Earlier today, the Dynamo <a href="http://www.houstondynamo.com/news/2013/02/dynamo-confirm-talks-scottish-winger" target="_blank">confirmed interest</a> in Driver and could be set to make the move official in the coming days. Driver, who is left footed, but can work from either side of the field is expected to provide depth in the Houston midfield.</p>
<p>More moves are expected from the Dynamo in the coming days.</p>
<h5><b>Houston Dynamo Press Release</b></h5>
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<p>The Houston Dynamo have traded midfielder Je-Vaughn Watson to FC Dallas in exchange for a second round selection in the 2015 MLS SuperDraft, it was announced today.</p>
<p>Watson, 29, appeared in 19 games (13 starts) in 2012. Watson also played in all four CONCACAF Champions League games and scored in a 3-1 win at C.D. FAS. The Jamaican international played in 22 regular season and three playoff games in 2011.</p>
<p>"I appreciate Je-Vaughn's contribution to the club over the past two seasons," said Dynamo president Chris Canetti. "I believe this move is in the best interest for both parties. He can begin a new opportunity, and it clears up some roster space that will enable us to make additional moves."</p>
<p>The Dynamo open the 2013 season on Saturday, March 2 when they host <a href="https://www.blackandredunited.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">D.C. United</a> at BBVA Compass Stadium in a rematch of the 2012 Eastern Conference Championship. Tickets are on sale for the first 5 games at <a href="http://www.houstondynamo.com/tickets" title="www.houstondynamo.com/tickets">www.houstondynamo.com/tickets</a>. Dynamo full-season ticket packages start at $400 and include 20 home games. To purchase your package or for more information on 2013 season tickets, call (713) 276-GOAL.</p>
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https://www.dynamotheory.com/2013/2/19/4007036/je-vaughn-watson-traded-to-fc-dallasOrdinary Orange Fan2013-02-19T06:50:02-06:002013-02-19T06:50:02-06:00Rumor: Andy Driver Headed to Houston Dynamo
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<p>Reports from Scotland have Hearts winger Andy Driver closing in on a move to the Houston Dynamo.</p> <p>Reports this morning surfaced regarding Hearts' Andy Driver making a move to Major League Soccer and the Houston Dynamo.</p>
<p>According to the <a target="_blank" href="http://www.scotsman.com/sport/football/top-football-stories/hearts-andy-driver-in-mls-houston-dynamo-move-1-2798763">Edinburgh Evening News</a>, the deal is so close that it is only pending a physical for the player. Driver could be flying out to Houston today to complete the move.</p>
<p>Driver has made 143 appearances with the Hearts and has scored 18 goals. He has spent his entire career with Hearts in the SPL, but has drawn serious interest from Burnley and Coventry City in the past.</p>
<p>It appears Hearts would free up quite a bit of money if Diver is sent to Houston. If Driver is making top dollar as some reports suggest, the Dynamo could be looking to add him as their second designated player.</p>
<p>These reports began surfacing this morning, so more news will surely start filtering out throughout the day. We'll keep you posted with the Driver to Houston news.</p>
<p>In the meantime, enjoy a highlights video of Driver and see what all the fuss is about.</p>
<p><iframe frameborder="0" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/VWt6PF4qKR0" height="315" width="560"></iframe> <br id="1361277999311"></p>
<p>What's you take on the news? Like the idea of Driver in Dynamo orange?</p>
https://www.dynamotheory.com/2013/2/19/4004274/rumor-hearts-andy-driver-transfer-houston-dynamoOrdinary Orange Fan2013-02-18T18:17:36-06:002013-02-18T18:17:36-06:00Dynamo Prepare to Make Final Roster Moves
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<figcaption>Rainier Ehrhardt</figcaption>
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<p>With less than two weeks until the Houston Dynamo open their 2013 season, a few roster moves still need to be completed. </p> <p>With just under two weeks to go until the opening of the 2013 <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.dynamotheory.com/">Houston Dynamo</a> season, it's time to take a look at where the team stands in terms of personnel. The good thing about Houston is as runner up to the MLS Cup, it wasn't time to tear down and build back up from scratch. A few minor tweaks and the team could potentially make a run for a third straight MLS cup.</p>
<p>Last season, the team seemed to lack in two key areas that may have changed their season's course - a consistent striker with speed, and a true attacking midfielder. The question is did <span>Dominic Kinnear</span> fill those two needs with <span>Omar Cummings</span> and <span>Giles Barnes</span>?</p>
<p>Giles Barnes has been <a href="http://www.dynamotheory.com/2013/2/13/3983122/giles-barnes-set-to-revive-houston-dynamo-attack" target="_blank">impressive in the preseason</a> and seems to have many fans hoping Kinnear will put him into the starting lineup as an attacking midfielder. Cummings, who is still recovering from knee surgery, is a speedy dangerous striker who will only blossom with <span>Brad Davis</span>, <span>Boniek Garcia</span>, and possibly Barnes controlling the Dynamo midfield.</p>
<p>With the <a href="http://www.dynamotheory.com/2012/12/23/3797464/omar-cummings-traded-to-houston-dynamo/in/3492285" target="_blank">addition of Cummings</a> aside, Houston hasn't set off any alarms with their offseason work. A solid <a href="http://www.dynamotheory.com/2012/12/6/3736910/eric-brunner-traded-to-houston-dynamo/in/3492285" target="_blank">center back addition</a> in <span>Eric Brunner</span>, a potential SuperDraft steal in Jason Johnson, and the <a href="http://www.dynamotheory.com/2013/2/16/3994444/houston-dynamo-sign-bryan-salazar-homegrown" target="_blank">addition of academy star</a> Bryan Salazar are the other moves the Dynamo have made thus far.</p>
<h4>Talking Trialists</h4>
<p>The 2013 trialist list was a light one for the Dynamo, having only brought in a total of seven players. The group included four draft picks - Jimmy Nealis, Anthony Arena, Nic Ryan, and Yannick Smith. In addition, Kinnear brought back a former face in <span>Mike Chabala</span> and Calem Elliot, a Scottish forward that turned down a trial prior to the 2012 season. The last of the trialists was a unique situation as <span>Franck Songo'o</span>, who was employed by Porland in 2012, was given an opportunity to impress the Dynamo staff.</p>
<p>Of the trialists, only Chabala, Nealis, and Arena remain with the team as they train in Charleston, South Carolina. With <span>Corey Ashe</span> returning from knee surgery and being the only left back on the roster, Kinnear is taking his time evaluating both Chabala and Nealis. Having more professional experience, Chabala seems to have an edge on Nealis, but Kinnear could opt to keep both around. Arena has looked solid throughout the preseason as well, slotting into the center back role.</p>
<p>Houston has five roster spots open, but it's unlikely Kinnear will keep all three defenders and we could expect one of them to be gone after the Carolina Challenge Cup ends this week.</p>
<p>Calem Elliot put in a decent trial for Houston, but ultimately <a href="http://blog.chron.com/soccer/2013/02/calum-elliots-dynamo-trial-ends-without-contract/" target="_blank">there wasn't a spot</a> for him. Elliot would have needed an international roster spot and Houston just didn't have the availability to keep him here.</p>
<p>The Dynamo officially gave word today that Franck Songo'o is <a href="http://www.houstondynamo.com/blog/post/2013/02/18/video-songos-dynamo-trial-comes-close" target="_blank">no longer training</a> with the club. He was getting massive playing time in preseason, and it appeared Houston was interested in keeping him around. Reports have said Houston and Portland were able to come to terms, but the Dynamo couldn't reach an agreement with Songo'o. </p>
<p>After the club returns from South Carolina, they will train for one week prior to opening the 2013 season at BBVA Compass Stadium on March 2.</p>
<h4>Current Roster Depth</h4>
<p>Major League Soccer roster rules say a team can have up to 30 players and the Dynamo currently sit on 25. Here's the current roster of all signed players for the 2013 season.</p>
<p><b>Goalkeeper: </b><span>Tally Hall</span><span style="line-height: 9px;">, <span>Tyler Deric</span>, <span>Erich Marscheider</span></span></p>
<p><b>Defense:</b> <span>Kofi Sarkodie</span>, <span>Bobby Boswell</span>, <span>Jermaine Taylor</span>, Corey Ashe, Eric Brunner, <span>Warren Creavalle</span></p>
<p><b>Midfield: </b>Boniek Garcia, <span>Adam Moffat</span>, <span>Ricardo Clark</span>, Brad Davis, Giles Barnes, <span>Luiz Camargo</span>, <span>Je-Vaughn Watson</span>, <span>Alex Dixon</span>, <span>Brian Ownby</span></p>
<p><b>Forward: </b><span>Will Bruin</span>, Omar Cummings, <span>Brian Ching</span>, <span>Cam Weaver</span>, <span>Calen Carr</span>, Jason Johnson, Bryan Salazar</p>
<p>With a handful of Dynamo players expected to miss time with their respective national teams, Dominic Kinnear and the Dynamo could be active in the coming weeks ahead of the start of the season. </p>
<h4>Update on 2012 Players Lost</h4>
<p>Even though Andre Hainault, Macoumba Kandji, <span>Josue Soto</span>, and Colin Rolfe are gone, I can't help but keep up with the departed players from time to time.</p>
<p>In Scotland, Hainault is finally cleared to take the field for Ross County. Hainualt is eager to make his SPL debut and had some <a href="http://www.highland-news.co.uk/Sport/Football/Ross-County/Hainault-eager-to-pick-up-pace-at-Dingwall-31012013.htm" target="_blank">nice things to say</a> about his time in Houston.</p>
<p>Kandji on the other hand has been free and clear and even <a href="http://t.co/IHp0CmSu" target="_blank">netted his first goal</a> for Kalloni last weekend. A fitting first for the striker as it gave his side a draw in stoppage time. The phrase "short term" is consistently used when describing Kandji's contract with Kalloni in several articles, so it has me curious if he'll be headed back to MLS in six months. Houston still holds his rights since they offered him a deal at the end of 2012.</p>
<p>Homegrown player Josue Soto has been on trial with <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://delete.sbnprivate.com/">Chivas USA</a> and seems to be fitting in well. He's getting <a href="http://www.cdchivasusa.com/news/2013/02/preseason-chivas-usa-earn-victory-las-vegas" target="_blank">steady playing time</a> in the preseason games, and has been involved in the offense. While he hasn't been signed yet, I hear he's playing well and could be headed towards a deal. With El Chelis at the wheel though, anything is possible.</p>
<p>Finally, last year's SuperDraft pick Colin Rolfe is still in camp with the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.hottimeinoldtown.com/">Chicago Fire</a>. Rolfe didn't see action against the Dynamo on Saturday, but was inserted in the <a href="http://www.chicago-fire.com/news/2013/02/recap-fire-reserves-down-coastal-carolina-4-2-sunday" target="_blank">Fire Reserve game</a> on Sunday and notched a goal. If your limited to reserve action in preseason, odds are the Fire aren't too impressed so far. Seems the consensus by those who'd know is Rolfe is expected to be cut soon.</p>
<p>Give us your thoughts on the Dynamo roster thus far and the 2013 trialists. With the current roster, is Houston a contender again this year?</p>
https://www.dynamotheory.com/2013/2/18/4000616/dynamo-roster-moves-franck-songoo-trial-overOrdinary Orange Fan2013-02-16T08:00:01-06:002013-02-16T08:00:01-06:00Dynamo Ink Academy Star Bryan Salazar
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<p>The Dynamo have signed their fifth homegrown player in team history - Bryan Salazar, a Dynamo Academy forward and high school senior who recently made waves in a scrimmage against the first team.</p> <p>On Wednesday, the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.dynamotheory.com/">Houston Dynamo</a> officially announced the signing of Bryan Salazar, an 18 year old member of the Dynamo Academy. Salazar will become the fifth player Houston has signed through their academy program.</p>
<p>News of the Dynamo's interest started to spread on Tuesday, and reports later in the afternoon confirmed Salazar was in discussions to make the jump to the first team. Less than a day later, Chris Canetti, <span>Dominic Kinnear</span>, and James Clarkson introduced the high school senior to the media and the young forward signed his MLS contract in front of everyone.</p>
<p>Salazar's signing is a feel good moment for the Dynamo, the player, and especially the academy. While Salazar is the fifth homegrown signing for the Dynamo, he is the first to progress through every level of the academy program. He started in the Junior Academy and now has made it to the highest level a player could aspire to reach - a professional athlete.</p>
<p>Wednesday also marked the six year anniversary of the Dynamo Academy. A fitting anniversary considering Salazar was there for the first practice.</p>
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<div class="pullquote">"It is a clear path to the pros" <span>-Canetti on Dynamo Academy</span>
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<p>It isn't often an 18 year old high school senior is offered a professional contract. The fact that Dominic Kinnear saw enough in Salazar's development and skill at this stage of his career is a huge boost of confidence for the kid and speaks volume of his potential.</p>
<p>If you check out this video of Salazar's highlights, you can quickly see the winger has some great skill on the ball and he's fearless of defenders.</p>
<p>Here are a couple of my favorites - I recommend watching the timer for these gems.</p>
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<p><b><i>0:27</i></b> - Watch Salazar's first touch as he knocks the ball around the defender and is off to the races. He turns another defender before firing a shot high so the keeper can't reach it, right into the back of the net.</p>
<p><b><i>0:52</i></b> - Salazar shows his speed, explosiveness, and ball control as he drives towards goal while keeping possession through a sliding tackle. His shot is perfectly placed around the keeper's reach for a goal.</p>
<p><b><i>1:13</i></b> - This is my personal favorite. Salazar receives a long pass, but calmly moves into the box. His footwork keeps the defender guessing before he taps it around to get the better position. Once the defender lunges for the ball and is out of the picture, the keeper comes out, but Salazar confidently taps the ball into the net. Pure confidence demonstrated from start to finish.</p>
<p><b><i>1:55</i></b> - If there was a "Tim Hardaway" crossover in soccer, Salazar executed it perfectly in this one. Wow.</p>
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<p>The entire clip shows Salazar's work ethic, his explosiveness and ball control, and his relentless confidence. The last few clips of the video show his performance in a January scrimmage against the Dynamo. After the game, several of the players were asking about the young player who gave the defense fits the entire game.</p>
<p>Now they'll have Salazar working for them, not against.</p>
<p><iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/mHXLyU7IQ8k" frameborder="0"></iframe> <br id="1360988277633"></p>
<p>It wasn't just a milestone for Salazar alone. The signing says a lot about the Dynamo Academy and sets the tone for future academy players. Canetti, Kinnear, and Clarkson all touched on the success and the vision of the Dynamo Academy. Ultimately, the goal is produce professional athletes - and Salazar's signing is a new standard.</p>
<p>One thing that stuck with Salazar as he moved up the ranks was the message from the academy. Kinnear recalled hearing Salazar referencing it a handful of times during their discussions. The message is the players are there because they want to play professional soccer. And that's exactly what Bryan wanted to accomplish.</p>
<p>Now the Fort Bend Bush High School senior has accomplished that mission. Next up for the MLS rookie will be to get his high school diploma on June 7<sup>th</sup>. He'll train with the first team when his school schedule allows, and will join full time once graduation is behind him.</p>
<p>It's a bit early to dissect how much of an impact Salazar will have on the Dynamo, but this announcement is a huge step in the right direction for the club, the academy, and soccer in America. Salazar's climb from bottom to the top of the developmental mountain is an inspiration for every aspiring soccer player out there. It lets every kid out there with a dream know that hard work does pay off and great things can happen. It also lets those parents who make countless sacrifices for their children's dreams know that one day they'll get to hold that first jersey with their child on the biggest day of their life.</p>
<p>When it was Salazar's time to speak to the full room of media, he knew exactly who to thank for his success. After God, he thanked his mother who has driven him to academy practice every day since he was 11 years old. He went on to thank his teammates and says his current team is the best he's ever been a part of. Salazar knows the dream he just realized as he signed that MLS contract wouldn't have been possible without family, the academy, and his teammates.</p>
<p>That's a great start because it's a similar recipe to continuing that success in the pros. His family, the technical staff for the Dynamo, and his new teammates will all influence his development into the next stage of his career.</p>
<p>There are a few things to accomplish before he goes down that road, but for now Salazar can soak in the moment and celebrate his hard work, his family's support of his dream, and the players and coaches that helped him along the way.</p>
https://www.dynamotheory.com/2013/2/16/3994444/houston-dynamo-sign-bryan-salazar-homegrownOrdinary Orange Fan2013-02-05T11:47:59-06:002013-02-05T11:47:59-06:00Dynamo Preseason: News and Notes
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<figcaption>Casey Sapio-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>The Dynamo season is set to open in less than a month. Here's the latest update on preseason news, trialists, and upcoming matches.</p> <p>We're less than a month away from MLS opening day, and there is a lot going on in the Dynamo world. With just a handful of weeks left in preseason, <span>Dominic Kinnear</span> has continued to make moves to get his 2013 roster set.</p>
<p>Houston has had mixed results thus far in preseason. In their first two matches, the Dynamo defeated their Academy team and Houston Baptist University. Following those two matches, the team headed to Tucson, Arizona to compete in the Desert Friendlies. Houston went 1-0-2 in Tucson, getting outscored 4-2.</p>
<p>Missing in preseason action thus far has been captain <span>Brad Davis</span> and <span>Will Bruin</span> due to national team call ups. <span>Tally Hall</span> was also called up, but promptly joined the club after the match vs Canada. Boniek Garcia is with the Honduras team and will face off against Davis in Wednesday's Hexagonal match.</p>
<p>Their absences have given the younger players and trialists plenty of time for Kinnear to get a good look at them. In the coming weeks, the roster will only get clearer.</p>
<h4>Five Trialists Remain</h4>
<p>Earlier today, we reported that Yannick Smith (forward) and Nic Ryan (midfielder) were no longer with the Dynamo. Both were Supplemental Draft picks and left the team following the Desert Friendlies in Tucson. Neither player were able to break through in two crowded areas of the roster.</p>
<p>That leaves the Dynamo with five non roster players still in camp. <span>Mike Chabala</span> (unattached), Jimmy Nealis (SuperDraft), Anthony Arena (Supplemental Draft), Calum Elliot, and <span>Franck Songo'o</span> remain with the club and will continue to be looked at.</p>
<p>Songo'o still being in camp could mean the Dynamo are in discussions with Portland regarding a move. Since he's still under contract with the club, Houston would have to negotiate a trade with the Timbers if they want to bring in Songo'o. The Oregonian reported that Kinnear committed to Portland he would let them know if the midfielder was in his plans <a target="_blank" href="http://www.oregonlive.com/timbers/index.ssf/2013/02/former_timber_franck_songoo_ho.html">prior to departing Arizona</a>.</p>
<h4>Taylor Extends Contract</h4>
<p>The Dynamo announced today that Jamaican defender <span>Jermaine Taylor</span> extended his contract with the club. Per team and league policy, details of the contract were not disclosed. Taylor cemented his spot in the starting lineup after <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/111180/geoff-cameron" class="sbn-auto-link">Geoff Cameron</a> left to England last season. Over the last two years, Taylor has appeared in 40 games for the Dynamo.</p>
<p>"The Dynamo is now a home for me, and I wanted to be even more comfortable as a player and someone to move the Dynamo forward," said Taylor. "My health and my comfort are what I care about, and I look forward to being with the Dynamo for the next few years."”</p>
<p>Not only has Taylor proven he's one of the best defenders in orange, statistics say he's one of the top in the league. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.houstondynamo.com/blog/post/2013/02/04/opta-breakdown-jermaine-taylor">Based on Opta data</a>, Taylor is a top ten defender in a number of areas.</p>
<h4>Dynamo Preseason Schedule</h4>
<p> </p>
<table bgcolor="#666666" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1"><tbody>
<tr bgcolor="#ffffff">
<td colspan="4"><b>Scrimmage</b></td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor="#ffffff">
<td>02/06-Wed</td>
<td>vs. Houston Baptist University</td>
<td>7 p.m.</td>
<td>Sorrels Field (HBU)</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor="#ffffff">
<td>02/09-Sat</td>
<td>vs. Southern Methodist University</td>
<td>1 p.m.</td>
<td>Houston Amateur Sports Park</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor="#ffffff">
<td colspan="4"><strong>Carolina Challenge Cup</strong></td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor="#ffffff">
<td>02/16-Sat</td>
<td>vs. <a href="https://www.hottimeinoldtown.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Chicago Fire</a>
</td>
<td>4 p.m.</td>
<td>Charleston, SC</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor="#ffffff">
<td>02/20-Wed</td>
<td>vs. <a href="https://www.eightysixforever.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Vancouver Whitecaps</a>
</td>
<td>4 p.m.</td>
<td>Charleston, SC</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor="#ffffff">
<td>02/23-Sat</td>
<td>vs. Charleston Battery</td>
<td>6:15 p.m.</td>
<td>Charleston, SC</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<p>Give us your thoughts on Dynamo preseason thus far. Is the team ready for opening day? What's your take on the remaining trialists?</p>
https://www.dynamotheory.com/2013/2/5/3953202/houston-dynamo-preseason-news-and-notesOrdinary Orange Fan2013-01-28T12:17:40-06:002013-01-28T12:17:40-06:00Macoumba Kandji Officially Joins Kalloni FC
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<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/mIvnoU_8LplZIFjRAAjg41tN-Ao=/0x65:448x364/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/7245631/20120512_jla_ad1_429.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Brett Davis-US PRESSWIRE</figcaption>
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<p>According to their official website, Kalloni FC in the Greek second division. </p> <p> </p>
<p>It appears Macoumba Kandji has finally found a home - and it's not with a huge European club. Ok, that last part was of course a joke; we all know Kandji has talent, but a move outside of MLS to a powerhouse club in Europe was an unrealistic goal for the striker.</p>
<p>Yesterday, Kandji tweeted out that he had mistakenly walked into a Greek taxi driver's convention. Apparently, that wasn't the only thing he was doing in Greece. Late yesterday, we updated our initial post that <a href="http://www.dynamotheory.com/2013/1/25/3917124/macoumba-kandji-trial-clermont-foot-over-headed-to-germany">reported Kandji was in negotiations</a> with a second division Greek club.</p>
<p>According to their official website, <a href="http://www.aelk.gr/articles/o_makoumpa_kantzi_sten_omada_mas">Kalloni FC has inked Kandji</a> to a deal. While my Greek isn't my strongest foreign language (ok so I don't speak a word), the English saying "a picture is worth a thousand words" is appropriate here. On the front page, Kandji is seen putting a pen to paper while sporting the scarf of the club.</p>
<p>Kalloni, commonly referred to as AELK, plays in the Football League, the second division of Greek soccer.</p>
<p>Prior to signing in Greece, Kandji reportedly <a href="http://www.dynamotheory.com/2013/1/20/3897684/transfer-rumors-houston-dynamo-macoumba-kandji-clermont-foot-ligue-2-trial">made his way through Turkey</a> on trial with Clermont Foot. Negotiations were said to break down with Clermont and both had moved on.</p>
<p>After his contract expired with the Houston Dynamo in December, Kandji expressed his desire to look at other options even though Houston attempted to re-sign him. Because the Dynamo made an offer to Kandji, the club will retain his MLS rights.</p>
https://www.dynamotheory.com/2013/1/28/3925102/transfer-rumors-macoumba-kandji-joins-aelk-kalloni-fcOrdinary Orange Fan