Former Furman Standout Clint Dempsey Selected For United States World Cup Squad

May 2, 2006

Greenville, S.C. - Former Furman soccer standout Clint Dempsey was one of 23 players selected by head coach Bruce Arena to make up the United States National Team roster for the 2006 World Cup this summer in Germany, it was announced Tuesday evening on ESPN's Sportscenter.

"This is a very exciting moment for Furman University, our soccer program and for Clint and his family," said Furman head coach Doug Allison, following the announcement. "We are all very proud of Clint and we know the he will do an outstanding job of representing his country at the World Cup."

Dempsey scored 17 goals and recorded 19 assists for 53 points in his Paladin career at midfield and forward. He was selected to the NSCAA Second Team All-America squad in 2002 and was an All-Southern Conference selection all three years at Furman. He was also a two-time NSCAA All-South region choice.

Dempsey was a key member of Furman's 2002 team that posted a 19-3-1 record, reached the third round of the NCAA Tournament and set NCAA standards for consecutive shutouts (11) and longest conference unbeaten streak (43 matches). He was the eighth overall selection in the 2004 Major League Soccer Draft by the New England Revolution and was later named league rookie-of-the-year.

The Revolution midfielder tallied 10 goals and nine assists in 2005 while being named to the MLS Best XI Team and earning a start in the 2005 MLS All Star Game. Dempsey's fourth minute goal versus Chicago in the Eastern Conference championship earned New England a trip to the 2005 MLS Cup final.

Dempsey has appeared in 19 matches with the full U.S. National Team netting four goals. In 2006, Dempsey has made four starts for his country scoring two goals and helping the U.S. to a 4-1-2 record.

The United States opens World Cup group play on June 12, versus the Czech Republic. After a June 17, showdown with world power Italy, the United States concludes first round action against Ghana on June 22.