Real Fine China

By: Akeem Samuels | July 18th, 2008

With the Olympics about three weeks away, Salt Lake fans have something to be truly proud of; a fine export of talented players overseas to the Beijing Olympics. Real Salt Lake has been blessed with the selections of Midfielder, Nathan Sturgis and Goalkeeper, Chris Seitz to the 18 man roster with Forward, Robbie Findley being selected for one of the four alternate spots.

Nathan Sturgis who was quite concerned on his selection to the squad, due to his lingering hamstring injuries has now been in good fitness, and his on-field play this season persuaded former DC United Coach, and current US Olympic Coach Peter Nowak to select him for the squad. Strugis who was quite pleased with the selection said, “It’s a big honor…I’m still trying to not get too far ahead of myself, because right now I’m still trying to stay healthy and play.”

Chris Seitz on the other hand was pretty confident on his selection status, but his playing time might of run into a road-block with Peter Nowak selecting Goalkeeper, Brad Guzan as one of his three over 23 picks (w/ Brian McBride, F and Michael Parkhurst, D). Guzan who is currently wrapping up a transfer deal to English Premier League side Aston Villa will more than likely get the nod as the starting keeper for the Olympics. Seitz responded to the Guzan’s selection saying, “It’s not that big a surprise…I knew that it was definitely a possibility, so I’ll just go in there, put my head down and work hard like I’ve always been doing, and hopefully, we’ll see what happens.”

The selection of the two youngsters is a bright spot to a Real squad who was bitterly disappointed with the absence of any club players for the League’s All-Star game against West Ham United of the English Premier League. Kreis and the Real Salt Lake management should applaud themselves for the youth movement they have created in their organization and their present success. Despite the fact that they haven’t shelled out huge dollar amounts for star-studded talent or used their designated-player slot, the team has produced a talented squad which has it currently above the rest in the West.

USA Mens’ Olympic Soccer Roster:

11 Adu, Freddy M - SL Benfica (Portugal)
12 Altidore, Jozy F - Villarreal (Spain)
4 Bradley, Michael M - Heerenveen (Netherlands)
9 Davies, Charlie F - Hammarby IF (Sweden)
6 Edu, Maurice M - Toronto FC (MLS)
10 Feilhaber, Benny M - Derby County (England)
18 Guzan, Brad GK - Chivas USA (MLS)
7 Holden, Stuart M - Houston Dynamo (MLS)
13 Ianni, Patrick D - Houston Dynamo (MLS)
16 Kljestan, Sacha M - Chivas USA (MLS)
17 McBride, Brian F - Out of contract
3 Orozco, Michael D - San Luis (Mexico)
15 Parkhurst, Michael D - New England Revolution (MLS)
14 Rogers, Robbie F - Columbus Crew (MLS)
1 Seitz, Chris GK - Real Salt Lake (MLS)
5 Sturgis, Nathan D - Real Salt Lake (MLS)
8 Szetela, Danny M - Brescia Calcio (Italy)
2 Wynne, Marvell D - Toronto FC (MLS)