2013 Roster

The second-year goalkeeper returns in 2013 after backing up Matt VanOekel during the 2012 season.

• Native of Detroit suburb Livonia, Mich., and standout at Oakland University before beginning professional career in 2012.
• Made three starts in 2012, posting two ties and a loss.
• Recorded a shutout in his professional debut on May 25, 2012, in 0-0 draw at Tampa Bay Rowdies.

2008-2011: Played for Oakland University of the Summit League and was first-choice from 2009-2011. During that span, the Grizzlies were among the Summit League's most consistent teams, winning the regular season title in 2009, tournament title in 2010 and making the tournament final in 2011.

2012: Signed with Minnesota, making three starts during the regular season, including a shutout in his pro debut on May 25, 2012, in a 0-0 tie at Tampa Bay. Finished season with two ties and a loss, 14 saves and a 1.00 goals-against average.

After an outstanding career as an attacking player in college, Justin Davis made the transition to left back as a rookie with Minnesota in 2011, quickly nailing down the starting job. Davis’ transition into defense has given United FC a dynamic option at outside back, as Davis and his right-sided counterpart Brian Kallman make frequent forays forward to join the attack.

• Native of Phoenix suburb Litchfield Park, Ariz.
• Twice earned first-team all-conference honors while playing for the University of New Mexico, where he recorded 20 goals and 18 assists in 77 career games.
• Scored his first professional goal—a game-winner—in just his second game, a 2-0 win against the Puerto Rico Islanders in 2011.
• Made 31 appearances in 2012 in all competitions, recording a goal and four assists.

2006-2009: Was a two-time first-team All-Mountain Pacific Sports Federation forward at the University of New Mexico. Ranks in the top-10 in multiple career statistical categories at UNM with 77 appearances, 20 goals and 18 assists.

2011: Debuted with Minnesota in May at left back, scoring a gamewinning goal in just his second game. Finished the season with 2380 minutes played, one goal and one assist (which came on what proved to be the winning goal in the NASL Championship Series.

2012: Was among Minnesota's leaders with 31 appearances in all competitions with one goal and four assists. His lone goal, a long-range, last-minute strike against the Atlanta Silverbacks, was among the nominees for NASL Play of the Year.

2013: Returns to Minnesota for his third professional season as part of one of the league's most experienced backlines.

A key part of the backline on the club’s 2011 championship-winning side, Brazilian centerback Cristiano Dias brings Minnesota United FC six seasons of experience in the NASL and its predecessor leagues. 2013 will be his third season in a Minnesota uniform.

• A native of Machado, Brazil
• Played for four teams in the lower leagues of Brazil before joining Miami FC in 2007
• Also plays indoor soccer professionally for the Missouri Comets during the offseason

Pre-2007: Played in the lower leagues of Brazil for four teams: São Carlos, São Bento, Osasco and Desportivo Brasil.

2007-2010: Featured in 79 games for Miami FC.

2011: Acquired as a free agent by Minnesota. Played in 23 games, including every minute of the run through the playoffs to the NASL Championship.

2012: Made 19 appearances in all competitions for Minnesota, scoring his first goal for the club in a 1-1 draw with FC Edmonton on August 25. Also earned NASL Defensive Player of the Week honors for Week 5 performance in a 2-0 victory against the Atlanta Silverbacks.

2013: Re-signed with Minnesota United FC in late February, rejoining the team at the conclusion of the 2012-2013 MISL season with the Missouri Comets.

After winning the 2012 regular season championship with the San Antonio Scorpions, Aaron Pitchkolan signed with the Stars in January 2013, giving the Stars options in both central midfield and central defense and years of experience across the American professional soccer landscape.

• A versatile player who can play as either a midfielder or a center back.
• Began his professional career with FC Dallas of Major League Soccer, making 68 league appearances and scoring five goals from 2005-2009.
• Voted to league Best XI in 2010 as a member of the Rochester Rhinos.

2001: Played one collegiate season for the University of Tampa Spartans, making 19 appearances and helping the team win a DII National Championship.

2002-2004: Transferred to Division I West Virginia University, where he made 54 appearances (52 starts), recording 11 goals and two assists.

2004: Made 19 appearances and scored two goals for the Boulder Rapids Reserves, the Colorado Rapids' U-23 side.

2005-2009: Drafted in the second round of the MLS Supplemental draft by FC Dallas, Pitchkolan began a five-year Major League Soccer career. In just over four seasons with FC Dallas, Pitchkolan made 68 league appearances and scored five goals. He was also a part of the 2005 and 2007 FC Dallas squads that reached the final of the Lamar Hunt US Open Cup, losing in 2005 to the LA Galaxy and in 2007 to the New England Revolution.

2009: Early in his fifth MLS season, FC Dallas traded Pitchkolan to the San Jose Earthquakes, for whom he made nine appearances, primarily as a defender.

2010: After being waived by San Jose, Pitchkolan signed for the Rochester Rhinos to play in the temporary USSF Division 2 Pro League and was an integral part of a side that won a regular season championship. Pitchkolan made 27 appearances for the Rhinos, contributing three goals and three assists. His performances earned his a spot on the USSF D2 Pro League Best XI team.

2011: Signed with the Puerto Rico Islanders in the NASL, helping the Islanders to a second-place finish in the regular season, a second consecutive CFU Club Championship and a playoff semifinal appearance. Pitchkolan made 29 league and playoff appearances, all starts, scoring three goals in league play.

2012: Signed for the expansion San Antonio Scorpions, helping the new side win the regular season championship and reach the playoff semifinals. Pitchkolan made 25 appearances for San Antonio in NASL play, scoring two goals. He also played all 300 minutes of San Antonio's run to the fourth round of the US Open Cup.

2013: Signed in January with MInnesota United FC. With a header to feed Lucas Rodriguez, Pitchkolan recorded the club's first assist on April 20 against FC Edmonton. The next week, he scored his first goal with Minnesota, a game-winner in a 3-2 victory at Atlanta.

A versatile and physical player, Edi Buro gives Minnesota United FC depth in both defense and the midfield. Buro is in his second season in Minnesota after signing with the Stars prior to the 2012 season.

• Born in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
• Moved to Brooklyn Park, Minn., and played collegiately at St. Paul’s Hamline University in 2006, making 17 appearances for the Pipers.
•  Returned to Bosnia and Herzegovina to play in the Premier League from 2010-2012 for FK Budućnost Banovići and NK Travnik.

2006: Made 17 appearances for Hamline University, recording two assists.

2010-2011: Made two appearances in the Bosnian Premier League with FK Budućnost Banovići, who were relegated to the second division following the season.

2011-2012: Joined Bosnian Premier League side NK Travnik, making two league appearances as the club finished eighth out of 16 teams.

2012: Signed with Minnesota Stars FC during the preseason, making two appearances as the club reached the NASL Championship Series.

The longest-tenured player on Minnesota’s roster wears many hats for the club. Not only is the Californian a defender, he’s also in his fourth season as an assistant coach and his third working in the team’s front office.

• Played collegiately for Southern Methodist University, where he was coached by current FC Dallas head coach Schellas Hyndman.
• 2013 will be his tenth season in Minnesota after joining the Minnesota Thunder in 2004.
• Drafted in the sixth round of the 2003 MLS Superdraft by the Kansas City Wizards.
• One of the United States’ appearance leaders in soccer at the Maccabiah Games, having played in five Maccabi events.
• Off the field, Friedland enjoys painting, reading and stand-up paddling

Simone Bracalello arrived in Minnesota at the recommendation of a friend in the Carolina RailHawks organization. The Italian forward impressed the coaching staff at the Stars’ open tryout in 2010 with his powerful shot and smooth finishing and has grown into one of the team’s most dangerous offensive weapons, capable of playing on the wings, in the center behind a striker or as part of a striking tandem.

• Native of Genoa, Italy, where he played in UC Samporia’s youth academy for four years
• Made his professional debut in Serie C2 (Italian fourth division) at age 17 with Savona 1907 FBC
• Professional experience in Italy includes stays with Savona, Calcio Como, FC Vado, Sestri Levante, Pontedecimo Polis and AC Prato
• Leading scorer in Stars/United history with 22 goals in all competitions (19 in the league)
• Career highlights with Minnesota include Minnesota United’s first-ever goal, a goal against Real Salt Lake in the 2012 US Open Cup and a highlight-reel free kick against the Fort Lauderdale Strikers in 2011

2002-2003: Made professional debut at age 17 with Savona 1907 FBC in the Italian Serie 2 (fourth division). His debut was his only first-team appearance for Savona.

2003-2004: Joined Calcio Como but did not make a first-team appearance.

2004-2005: Signed for FC Vado and became a first-team regular in midfield, making 28 appearances and scoring two goals.

2005-2006 Bracalello joined USD Sestri Levante 1919 and played a similar role to his time at Vado, making 27 appearances and scoring one goal.

2006-2007: Enjoyed a breakout season with Pontedecimo Polis, scoring 12 goals in 26 appearances.

2007-2008: Joined Serie C2 (fourth division) side AC Prato, making 23 appearances and scoring three goals.

2010-present: After a year spent on trial in Italy and Australia, Bracalello impressed at the Minnesota Stars' 2010 combine, making the team and finishing the 2010 and 2011 seasons as the leading scorer. Bracalello has made more than 70 appearances in all competitions in Minnesota, scoring 22 goals.

The Albuquerque, N.M., native will begin his professional career with the defending North American Soccer League champions.

Reed was a standout as a four-year letterman at Albuquerque’s Sandia High School before playing collegiately at the University of New Mexico. After redshirting as a true freshman in 2006, Reed went on to start 60 of his 76 appearances with the Lobos, scoring three goals and recording 11 assists. His senior season in 2010 was his most productive, as he started all 20 games, recording two goals and six assists.

Reed is the third player with Albuquerque roots on the Stars’ roster. Team Captain Kyle Altman hails from the city, and second-year left back Justin Davis played collegiate soccer for the University of New Mexico.

Player Summary Coming Soon...

After scoring 15 goals in 2011 for Carolina while playing alongside Etienne Barbara, Campos had an MVP year of his own with the San Antonio Scorpions in 2012 before joining Stars FC in January for the opportunity to play alongside Barbara once again.

• Native of Rio de Janiero, Brazil
• Scored 21 goals for San Antonio in 2012, helping the team win the NASL regular season title in its first season
• Played two seasons in Major League Soccer for San Jose Earthquakes and Real Salt Lake, winning the 2009 MLS Cup with RSL
• Has also played in Sweden for GAIS, a club based in Gothenburg

Youth: Member of the academy teams of Guarani and Botafogo in his native Brazil

College: Oklahoma Baptist University (NAIA) and Fresno Pacific University (NAIA)

2007-2008: Campos began to gain national attention in two seasons in the PDL with the Fresno Fuego. All told, Campos scored 32 goals in 25 appearances for Fresno, earning honors as the PDL's top scorer and MVP in 2007. He was courted by Major League Soccer as early as 2007, but opted instead to begin his professional career overseas.

2008-2009: Joined GAIS of the Swedish Allvenskan midway through the 2008 campaign, making eight appearances in total. He left Sweden prior to the start of the following season.

2009: Campos returned to the United States, signing a contract with MLS. His name was entered into a weighted lottery, with the San Jose Earthquakes winning his services in the drawing. He scored two goals and added two assists in 14 games for San Jose before being traded midway through the 2009 MLS season.

2009-2010: Campos was acquired via trade by Real Salt Lake. He made 11 appearances for RSL, recording two goals and three assists and earning a championship ring as a member of RSL's MLS Cup winning side. Minutes were harder to come by for the defending champions in 2010, and Campos recorded a single assist in 16 appearances before parting ways with RSL at the end of the 2010 season.

2011: Campos had a breakout season for the Carolina RailHawks in the NASL's first season of competition, though his excellent season was overshadowed by the goalscoring exploits of teammate Etienne Barbara. Campos finished the regular season ranked second in the league with 12 goals for Carolina before adding a hat trick in a semifinal loss during the playoffs.

2012: Campos' form in 2011 was rewarded during free agency by the San Antonio Scorpions, who relied on the 6-foot-3 forward for much of its offense in its inaugural season. Campos improved on his performance from the year before, tallying a total of 21total goals (regular season and playoffs) in 30 appearances in NASL play and two additional goals in three US Open Cup appearances. Campos earned the NASL Golden Boot as the league's leading scorer and was named the league's MVP for helping lead San Antonio to the league's regular-season championship.

2013: Campos signed as a free agent with Minnesota in January, joining five other free agent signings, including Etienne Barbara, his 2011 strike partner in Carolina.

The 2011 North American Soccer League MVP joined Stars FC in January 2013 on a three-year contract, returning to the NASL after a season with the Vancouver Whitecaps of Major League Soccer. Barbara is a former teammate of fellow United FC newcomer Pablo Campos, and says he’s excited to rekindle that relationship.

• Scored 20 goals and had eight assists for Carolina RailHawks in 2011, helping lead the team to the regular season title and a semifinal appearance in the playoffs.
• Has made 32 appearances for Malta and scored three goals, including one during qualifying for the 2006 FIFA World Cup. Remains a part of the Maltese National Team’s player pool.
• Has played professionally in his native Malta and in Germany.

Youth: Qormi F.C. (Malta)

1999-2003: Began his professional career as a defender with the Maltese Premier League's Floriana FC (Malta). In three-and-a-half seasons with Floriana, he made 74 league appearances, converting to a full-time attacking player during the 2001-02 season, when he scored eight goals. In January 2003, he transferred to Marsaxlokk, which was playing its first season in the Maltese Premier League.

2003-2005: Signed in January 2003 with Marsaxlokk FC (Malta), a club that had been promoted the previous fall. In two seasons with the club, he made 43 league appearances, scoring 21 goals. During his time with Marsaxlokk, Barbara earned his first call-up to the Maltese National Team. In January 2005, he transferred again.

2005-2007: Signed with Birkirkara in January 2005. In two-and-a-half seasons with Birkirkara, he scored 31 goals in 59 appearances.

2007-2008: Despite his impressive form with Birkirkara, Barbara was allowed to leave after the 2007 season, signing with Sliema Wanderers, the most successful club in the history of Maltese club soccer. He made 23 appearances for the club, scoring eight goals in his final season during his initial stay in the Maltese Premier League.

2008-2009: Barbara moved to Germany for the 2008-09 season, joining SC Verl on a two-year contract. Things in Germany didn't work out, as Barbara made 18 appearances without scoring a goal, and was allowed to return to Malta prior to the 2009-10 season.

2009-2010: Barbara's return to Malta brought him to Hibernians FC, the defending champions of the Maltese Premier League. In 19 appearances, Barbara scored three goals and caught the eye of Carolina RailHawks coach Martin Rennie, who offered Barbara a contract and brought him to the United States prior to the 2010 season.

2010-2011: Barbara joined the Carolina RailHawks in time for the start of the 2010 USSF D2 Pro League season. He scored twice in his debut for Carolina and went on to tally eight goals and two assists in his debut season for Carolina. His eight goals marked a club record that he would smash a year later. During the offseason, Barbara returned to Malta on loan for a second spell with Sliema Wanderers, scoring twice in six appearances. He returned to Carolina in excellent form and led the North American Soccer League in both goals and assists, scoring 20 times and providing a further nine assists as Carolina won the league regular season crown before falling in a shootout during the playoff semifinals. Barbara earned the league's MVP award and the Golden Boot. His exploits caught the eye of the Montreal Impact, who would join Major League Soccer from the the NASL the following season, but ultimately, he would follow Carolina head coach Martin Rennie to the Vancouver Whitecaps.

2012: After some drawn out negotiations, Barbara joined the Vancouver Whitecaps for the 2012 MLS season. Barbara struggled with injuries and saw limited time in 2012, making just two appearances for the Whitecaps.

2013: Barbara signed for Minnesota Stars FC as a free agent on a three-year deal. The club announced his signing, along with five others, on January 23, 2013.

International: Barbara has made 32 appearances for the Maltese National Team, most recently in a 3-2 friendly victory against San Marino in August 2012. He has scored three goals for Malta, including one during the qualifying tournament for the 2006 World Cup. He remains a part of the player pool for Malta's national team.

Forward Max Griffin signed with the club on March 1, 2013 after three seasons at the USLPro level. He was the 2010 USSF D2 Rookie of the Year with the Austin Aztex and moved with the club to Orlando following the 2010 season. He spent 2011 and part of 2012 with Austin before completing the season on loan with the LA Blues.

• USSF D2 Rookie of the Year in 2010 after notching 11 goals and five assists with the Austin Aztex.
• Has 29 career goals to his name in his first three seasons as a professional.
• Played four matches in Major League Soccer in 2011 while on loan with the San Jose Earthquakes following the completion of the USLPro season.
• Has an older brother, Leonard, who was a teammate in Austin in 2010 and with the LA Blues in 2012.

2006-2009: Ranks in the all-time top 10 goalscorers at UCLA with 28 goals career goals and was part of the 2006 Bruins side that reached the NCAA Championship final. During his college career, he spent three seasons in the PDL, two with the San Fernando Valley Quakes (2006 and 2008) and one with the Los Angeles Legends (2009).

2010: At the recommendation of his brother Leonard, Griffin was invited to try out for the Austin Aztex before the 2010 USSF D2 Pro League season. Griffin not only made the team, but earned the 2010 USSF Rookie of the Year award after posting 11 goals in 31 games in USSF D2 Pro competition.

2011-2012: Griffin moved with the Aztex when they relocated to Florida and became the Orlando City Soccer Club. Griffin was part of OCSC's side in 2011 that won the USL Pro Regular Season and Playoff championships. In two partial seasons with OCSC, Griffin scored 14 goals in all competitions. Griffin also spent time with MLS's San Jose Earthquakes after the completion of the 2011 USL Pro season.

2012: To help return to form after recovering from injury, Griffin joined the LA Blues on loan from Orlando City, making nine appearances and scoring four goals.

2013: Griffin signed during the offseason for Minnesota United FC and made his debut in the team's 2-0 victory against FC Edmonton on April 20, drawing a penalty kick to set up the game's first goal.

A fan favorite in Minnesota, Kentaro Takada has been a constant figure in Manny Lagos’ midfield since 2010. The Japanese lefty tried out during the Minnesota Stars’ inaugural combine in 2010.

• Native of Hokuto, Japan
• Scored the first goal in the history of the relaunched NASL on April 9, 2011, taking a cross from Jeff Cosgriff in stride before beating Atlanta goalkeeper Jimmy Maurer early in the second half of the Minnesota’s season-opening 2-1 win against the Silverbacks
• Played collegiately for Hokkaido University in Sapporo, Japan
• Played from 2006-2008 in the JS League for Thespa Kusatsu

One of the longest-tenured players on Minnesota’s roster, Kallman has spent his entire professional career in his own backyard. Having grown up in Woodbury, Minn., Kallman is the only Minnesota native currently on the Minnesota United FC roster.

• Vice-captain of the club since the start of the 2012 NASL season
• Joined the Minnesota Thunder in 2006
• Played three college seasons for Jacksonville University before transferring to college soccer power Creighton University
• Comes from a soccer-playing family, with a younger brother who just completed his college career at Creighton, two sisters who have played professionally and a younger sister who is part of the US Women’s U20 National Team player pool
• Outside interests include video games, lawn games and water sports with his family

Sean de Silva begins his professional career in Minnesota. Despite his youth, de Silva brings United FC experience at the collegiate, youth international and senior international level.

• A native of Port-of-Spain, Trinidad and Tobago
• Two-time all-conference first team member while competing collegiately for College of Charleston
• Has made 10 appearances for Trinidad and Tobago at the youth international level, scoring two goals for the country’s U23 team
• Has made two appearances for the full Trinidad and Tobago squad

2008-2011: Sean de Silva was a two-time first-team all-conference player at the College of Charleston. In three collegiate seasons at CoC, de Silva recorded 13 goals and 14 assists in 56 appearances. He sat out the 2009 season while competing for Trinidad and Tobago at the FIFA U20 World Cup.

International: de Silva has represented Trinidad and Tobago at the international level beginning at the U17 age group. He has made 10 appearances as a youth international for T&T, appearing in the 2007 FIFA U17 World Cup and 2009 U20 World Cup. He has two goals to his name for the country's U23 side. He made his full international debut in March 2009 and has one additional full international cap to his name.

Team captain Kyle Altman returns in 2013 to compete in the NASL’s Spring Championship. No player has more appearances or minutes played than Altman, who has worn the captain’s armband since the beginning of the 2011 season.

• Native of Albuquerque, N.M.
• Was a standout at Trinity University in San Antonio, where he was twice named an NCAA DIII First Team All American
• During college, played during the offseason for the DFW Tornadoes of the USL PDL and the Albuquerque Asylum of the NPSL.
• Signed professional contract in 2008 to join the Minnesota Thunder
• Along with teammate Kevin Friedland, is a member of the US Maccabi player pool and has medalled in several Maccabi and Maccabiah events

2004-2007: Played collegiately for San Antonio's Trinity University, where he was a major part of four straight conference championship winning sides and the 2007 NCAA DIII Runners Up. Altman made 87 appearances (81 starts), recording 22 goals and 14 assists. During college offseasons, Altman played for the NPSL's Albuquerque Asylum in 2004 and 2005 and for the PDL's DFW Tornados in 2006.

2008: After impressing with the US Maccabi team, Altman joined the Minnesota Thunder, making 15 appearances in 2008 before sitting out the 2009 season to return to Trinity to complete his degree.

2010-present: Altman was an early signing to the Minnesota Stars and quickly entrenched himself in the starting lineup. After starting as a defensive midfielder, Altman transitioned to center back. He was the first player to lift the NASL Soccer Bowl trophy when Minnesota won a championship in 2011 and was a member of the 2012 NASL Best XI. Altman has made more than 80 appearances in all competitions in Minnesota, scoring five goals.

Only 24, Bryan Arguez has already played all over the world, both at a club level and as a member of several US youth teams and brings Minnesota Stars FC a versatile option in the central midfield. Arguez joins the club after spending the second half of the 2012 season on loan at FC Edmonton from the Montreal Impact. Arguez scored a sensational long-range goal against the Stars at NSC Stadium in a 1-1 tie.

• Played extensively for the US U-17, U-20 and U-23 national teams
• Scored against Cameroon in a 4-1 victory for the US at the 2009 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Egypt
• Drafted by DC United in the 2007 MLS Superdraft, but moved to Germany to join Hertha Berlin before making an appearance with DC
• Returned to the US in 2009 as a member of Miami FC (now the Fort Lauderdale Strikers)

Youth: Was a member of the US player development program at the IMG Academy in Bradenton, Fla.

2007: Taken in the first round of the 2007 Major League Soccer Superdraft by DC United with the 11th overall pick. Arguez, then 18 years old, never made an appearance with the DC first team.

2008-2009: Following the 2007 MLS season, Arguez jumped on an offer from Europe, joining Hertha Berlin of the German Bundesliga. Arguez featured 10 times for the Hertha reserves in the fourth division and made one appearance for the senior team.

2010-2011: Arguez returned to the United States and joined Miami FC, his hometown club, in the USSF D2 Pro League. He made seven appearances in 2010 before going on loan during the offseason to Estoril Praia of Portugal. When Miami FC rebranded as the Fort Lauderdale Strikers in 2011, Arguez emerged as one of the NASL's most consistent holding midfielders. He made 24 total appearances in 2011, scoring one goal, and played every minute of Fort Lauderdale's run to the NASL Championship Series.

2012: Having established himself in the NASL, Arguez signed for the Montreal Impact when it joined MLS from the NASL. Arguez was unable to crack the Impact's starting XI and spent the rest of the season on loan with NASL side FC Edmonton, where he featured prominently as a holding midfielder as the Eddies became more competitive in the second half of the season. Arguez made 13 appearances for FC Edmonton and had an assists and an impressive game-tying goal at NSC Stadium in a 1-1 draw with the Stars.

2013: Arguez signed with Minnesota during the offseason and was announced as a new member of the club in January 2013.

International: Arguez was a member of the US U17, U20 and U23 National teams. He was a member of the U20 squad at the 2007 and 2009 FIFA U20 World Cups, scoring against Cameroon in the latter tournament. In total, Arguez made 44 appearances for US youth teams, scoring two goals.

After impressing during offseason training with Minnesota United FC, Luis Heitor-Piffer will begin his professional career in the Twin Cities after signing with the club early in the 2013 Spring Season. A left-footed player who can play capably in multiple roles along the wing, Heitor-Piffer will look to emulate the development of wide players like Justin Davis, Miguel Ibarra and Lucas Rodriguez under the watch of Minnesota’s coaching staff.

• Native of Amparo, Brazil
• Named Midwest Collegiate Conference’s Player of the Year during both seasons he played at NAIA’s Grand View University, where he scored 22 goals and had 14 assists for his career
• Can play either midfield or defense

2008-2009: Played two seasons with Marshalltown Community College.

2010-2011: Transferred to NAIA school Grand View University, where he earned back-to-back conference player of the year awards, scoring 22 goals and dishing out 14 assists.

2013: Signed with Minnesota United FC in April 2013.

Center back Connor Tobin returns to Minnesota for a second season after establishing himself as a first-choice on the back line during the 2012 season. The 6-foot-2 defender brings Minnesota professional experience in the US and Norway, as well as leadership experience built during a two-year stint as an assistant at the University of New Hampshire.

• Native of Fort Collins, Colo.
• Was a collegiate standout at the University of Vermont, where he ranks in the Catamounts’ all-time top 10 in appearances with 77, 76 of which were starts
• Was named the America East Defender of the Year as a senior and was a three-time member of the All-America East Academic Team as a mechanical engineering major

2005-2008: Made 77 appearances (76 starts) for the University of Vermont Catamounts, scoring four goals and four assists. He was a member of the NSCAA All-Northeast Regional team and won the 2007 America East Men's Soccer Scholar-Athlete award.

2010: Signed for Norwegian second-division side Nybergsund IL-Trysil, making 19 league appearances and scoring one goal.

2011: Returned to the United States, signing for USL Pro club Rochester Rhinos. Tobin made 15 appearances for the Rhinos, scoring one goal.

2012-present: Tobin signed for Minnesota, spending most of the first half of the season as a substitute before establishing himself as a first-choice centerback alongside Kyle Altman during the second half of the year and through the team's run to the NASL Championship Series. Tobin assisted Martin Nunez's stoppage time goal in the first leg of the Championship Series.

After lettering all four years during his college career, Travis Wall began his professional career in Minnesota in 2012, signing with the club on April 12, 2012.

• Native of Columbus, Ohio
• Named the 2011 Division III Player of the Year by the NSCAA for his role in helping OWU claim the DIII National Championship, the school’s second. In his college career, Wall scored 49 goals and recorded 36 assists in 89 games
• Majored in sports management with a journalism minor
• Has a brother and sister who also each lettered in soccer at Ohio Wesleyan

2008-2011: Was a four-year letterman and standout at Ohio Wesleyan University, helping lead the team to the 2011 DIII NCAA Championship. He was the 2011 DIII Player of the Year. In his career, Wall made 89 appearances for the Battling Bishops, recording 49 goals and 36 assists.

2012-present: Signed with Minnesota in April 2012. In his rookie season, Wall made three appearances in all competitions, including one start.

Another young player with a bright future, Kevin Venegas left a lasting impact on the North American Soccer League in 2012. Capable of playing on either wing or on defense, Venegas possesses a powerful right foot.

• Native of Los Angeles suburb Norwalk, Calif.
• Played college soccer for California State University, Fullerton
• Selected by Chivas USA in the 2012 MLS Supplemental Draft
• His first career goal, a swerving shot from distance against the Carolina RailHawks, was voted the 2012 North American Soccer League Play of the Year
• Also scored a header in Minnesota’s 2012 US Open Cup third round upset of Real Salt Lake

2008-2011: Made 74 appearances at California State University, Fullerton, where he scored 16 goals and recorded 11 assists.

2012-present: In his first professional season, Venegas was a regular starter in midfield for Minnesota. In all competitions, Venegas made 24 appearances (18 starts), recording two goals and an assist.

A speedy wide player who likes to jump into the attack, Miguel Ibarra is the fastest player on the Minnesota United FC roster and another wide player growing professionally under the tutelage of Manny Lagos and Carl Craig. His rookie season in 2012 gave Minnesota a constant threat from the wings, and 2013 and beyond promises even more for the 5-foot-7 Ibarra, who pledged his future to the club during the offseason by signing a contract extension.

• Native of Lancaster, Calif.
• Was a first-team All American in 2011 as he concluded his collegiate career with the University of California, Irvine
• Started from game one for Minnesota as a rookie, making 30 appearances in all competitions, scoring five goals (including the game-winner in Minnesota’s 2-1 win at Puerto Rico to open the playoffs) and adding five assists

2008-2009: Opened his college career at Taft College, where he was named the Central Valley Conference MVP before moving on from the junior college to compete at the NCAA DI level.

2010-2011: Transferred to the University of California, Irvine to complete his college career with the Anteaters. With nine goals and eight assists as a senior, Ibarra was named the Big West Co-Offensive Player of the Year and to the All-Big West First Team.

2008-2010: Played in the NPSL during the college offseason, making 43 appearances for the Lancaster Rattlers and scoring 12 goals.

2011: Played one season in the PDL with Orange County Blue Star, making four appearances.

2012-present Despite going deep into the Portland Timbers' preseason camp, Ibarra found his way to Minnesota in March 2012 and entrenched himself immediately in Manny Lagos' midfield. In 30 appearances in all competitions, Ibarra recorded five goals and five assists, including a game-winning goal against Puerto Rico in the first round of the playoffs and an assist in the NASL Championship Series against the Tampa Bay Rowdies.

A late season addition to Minnesota’s lineup in 2012, Nate Polak made an impact as both a starter and a sub as Manny Lagos’ side pushed for the playoffs and onto the NASL Championship Series.

• Native of Lincoln, Neb.
• Began college career at Drake University before transferring to Hastings College, where he helped lead the team to an NAIA Championship in 2010 and a runner-up finish in 2011
• Scored his first professional goal Sept. 11, 2012, in a 4-0 win against the Puerto Rico Islanders

2008: Made three appearances as a freshman at Drake University.

2009-2011: Was a standout at NAIA school Hastings College, where he won the 2010 NAIA National Championship. In three seasons with the Broncos, he recorded 43 goals and 30 assists.

2012-present: After spending the summer training with Minnesota, Polak earned his first professional contract in August 2012. He made seven appearances (three starts) through the end of the NASL season and the playoffs, scoring one goal.

The younger brother of Minnesota vice-captain Brian Kallman, Brent Kallman is following a path similar to his brother’s, playing collegiately at Creighton University then signing for his hometown club. Brent begins his professional career with Minnesota United FC after signing his first professional contract.

• A native of Woodbury, Minn., he and his older brother, Brian, give United FC two native Minnesotans on the 2013 roster.
• Played collegiately for Creighton University, making appearances in the NCAA College Cup (national semifinal) in 2011 and 2012
• Played in the USL PDL in 2012 for the Des Moines Menace

2009-2012: Played collegiate soccer for the Creighton University Bluejays. Was named to the Missouri Valley Conference all-freshman team in 2009. In his career, primarily used as a defender, Kallman made 78 appearances and 38 starts, recording three career goals and five assists. During his career at Creighton, the Bluejays reached the NCAA tournament three times and participated in two College Cups (semifinals) in 2011 and 2012.

After waiting in the wings during a professional career spent entirely in Minnesota, Matt VanOekel enjoyed an excellent season for Minnesota in 2012 in his first year as the club’s starter, helping guide the team to the NASL Championship Series and within a penalty shootout of repeating as champions.

• Native of Chesapeake, Va.
• Played one season for Longwood University before transferring to Rutgers University, where he made 47 appearances
• Signed with the Minnesota Thunder in 2009
• Made 30 appearances in all competitions in 2012, recording 2,730 minutes and posting a 1.15 goals against average and making nine shutouts

2004: Played one season at Longwood University in Farmville, Va.

2005-2007: Made 47 appearances for Rutgers University after transferring to the Big East school, winning 20 career games.

2008-2009:: Made one appearance for the Minnesota Thunder after beginning his professional career.

2010-present: Spent two seasons as a back up before assuming the starting role in 2012. Since 2010, has made 37 appearances (36 starts), posting a 1.26 goals-against-average.

Argentina-born midfielder Lucas Rodriguez has spent his whole professional career in Minnesota since debuting for the club in 2010. In 2011, he established himself as a cog in the team’s midfield and developed a penchant for timely goals, including his wonderful solo goal to ice the 2011 NASL Championship Series and bring the Soccer Bowl to Minnesota.

• Native of Buenos Aires, Argentina
• Moved to the Kansas City area with his family in 1997
• Played collegiately at Johnson County Community College and MidAmerica Nazarene University
• Plays indoor soccer for the Missouri Comets during the winter season and was the 2010-11 MISL Rookie of the Year
• Is the only player to score in more than one NASL Championship Series having tallied goals in 2011 and 2012

2006-2007: Played two seasons of junior college soccer for Johnson County Community College.

2008-2009: Was an all American and conference MVP at MidAmerica Nazarene University after transferring to the NAIA school.

2010-present: Has played entirety of his professional outdoor soccer career in Minnesota, making 54 appearances, scoring six goals and providing four assists.

The 32-year-old goalkeeper bounced back from knee surgery in 2012 to man the net for the stingiest defense in the North American Soccer League. Daryl Sattler joined Minnesota in January after career stops in Nashville, Memphis, Atlanta, Wilmington, Tampa Bay and San Antonio.

• Won the NASL Golden Gloves award in 2012 after posting a 0.79 goals against average for the San Antonio Scorpions
• Voted Team MVP and Best Defensive Player by the supporters of FC Tampa Bay (now the Rowdies) in the club’s inaugural 2010 season
• Also an experienced coach, having served as goalkeeper coach at Sun Belt Conference schools David Lipscomb University and assistant head coach at Jacksonville University

2000-2003: Was a four-year starter for the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers, where he set a school record for career shutouts.

2003-2004: Played with PDL side Nashville Metros, making 34 appearances.

2005: Played in the PDL with Memphis Express, making five appearances.

2006: Returned to the Nashville Metros and enjoyed a breakout year in the PDL, making 89 saves in 14 appearances.

2007-2008: His PDL performances (which came while he was also coaching full-time) caught the eye of the Atlanta Silverbacks in the USL First Division, but his stay in Atlanta was a frustrating one in which he made no first team appearances.

2009: Sattler left Atlanta and enjoyed a better run with the Wilmington Hammerheads, where he made 13 appearances as the team's first-choice goalkeeper, but a season-ending injury ended his single season in the USL Second Division.

2010-2011: Joined FC Tampa Bay and emerged as the team's first choice goalkeeper in 2010. In 2011, he looked poised to lead Tampa once again before a torn ACL ended his season.

2012: Recovered from his torn ACL, Sattler signed with the expansion San Antonio Scorpions and took over the team's starting role after Pat Hannigan suffered a season-ending injury early in the year. As the unquestioned starter for San Antonio, Sattler won the 2012 NASL Golden Gloves award for the lowest goals-against-average and helped San Antonio win the 2012 Regular Season championship.

2013: Signed for Minnesota United FC in January 2013.

A creative midfielder from Brazil, Geison Moura signed a short-term contract with Minnesota in May and promptly made his debut as a substitute in the club’s second-round US Open Cup defeat. 2013 will mark his fourth season in Minnesota colors. During outdoor soccer’s offseason, Geison plays indoor soccer and is one of the stars of the Major Indoor Soccer League, for which he was named MVP after the 2011-12 season.

• Native of Santo Andre, Brazil, a suburb of Sao Paulo.
• Veteran of several indoor soccer leagues and considered one of the stars of the Major Indoor Soccer League.

2005-2006: Began his professional career with Associação Atlética Portuguesa in the town of Santos in Sao Paulo state.

2007: Moved to the United States to join indoor club New Jersey Ironmen of the MISL. Moura made nine appearances, scoring two goals.

2008: Geison became a year-round footballer when he joined Atletico San Juan in the Puerto Rican professional league. During the winters, he would continue to play indoor.

2008-2010: Indoor soccer continued to be Geison's strength as he played two seasons in the MISL with the Rockford Rampage, scoring 12 goals in 18 appearances over the course of those two seasons.

2010-present: Moura returned to outdoor soccer, signing with the Minnesota Stars. He was originally not re-signed after the 2011 season, but re-joined Minnesota in 2012 to make five appearances before a concussion ended his season prematurely. In the offseasons, Moura has continued his indoor career, earning the MISL MVP award in 2011-12 for his performances with the Missouri Comets. For the 2012-2013 indoor season, Moura joined the Wichita Wings. He signed for Minnesota United FC in May on a short-term deal.