The Columbus Crew today selected defender Aaron Hohlbein in Stage 1 of the first-ever MLS Re-Entry draft. Hohlbein, 25, spent his first four professional seasons with the Kansas City Wizards (now known as Sporting Kansas City).
The Middleton, Wis., native and University of Wisconsin product was selected by Kansas City in the first round (No. 3 overall) of the 2007 MLS Supplemental Draft. As a rookie, he made five appearances (four starts) for the first team and nine appearances for the reserve team. Hohlbein went on to play in 43 matches (41 starts) in K.C., logging 3,496 minutes, scoring two goals and recording one assist.
“We look forward to welcoming Aaron to our group,” said Crew head coach Robert Warzycha. “He brings some experience in our league and, after losing Eric Brunner in the expansion draft, he addresses a need for depth and competition at central defense. We expect him to come into camp and contend for a spot on our roster.”
While at Wisconsin, Hohlbein saw action in 77 games, scoring six goals and recording seven assists. He served as a team captain in his junior and senior years and was a third-team All-America selection as a senior. He was twice named first-team All-Big 10 and twice named second-team All-Big 10.
Per draft rules, clubs must exercise the option for, or extend a Bona Fide Offer to, players selected in Stage 1. Players who are out of contract may either accept or reject the Bona Fide Offer. Being out of contract, Hohlbein will be extended a Bona Fide Offer. Should a player reject the offer, the drafting club will hold the right of first refusal for that player in MLS. Players with option years left on their contract will automatically be added to the drafting club’s roster.
Players who were not selected today are eligible for Stage 2, which will take place on Dec. 15 at 2 p.m. ET. A list of players available for selection in Stage 2 will be released on Monday, Dec. 13. For Re-Entry Process rules, procedures, and eligible players, CLICK HERE.
Founded by American sports pioneer Lamar Hunt, the Columbus Crew is Ohio's Major League Soccer club, anchoring a diverse sports and entertainment enterprise. One of the league's Charter Members, it won its first MLS Cup championship in 2008 and has also won the 2002 U.S. Open Cup and MLS Supporters’ Shield titles in 2004, 2008 and 2009. It recently completed its 15th season overall and 12th in first-of-its-kind Columbus Crew Stadium.
Aaron Hohlbein
Position: Defender
Height: 6-0
Weight: 170
Born: August 16, 1985, Middleton, Wis.
Hometown: Middleton, Wis.
Citizenship: USA
2010 Team: Kansas City Wizards
How Acquired: Selected by the Crew in Stage 1 of the 2010 Re-Entry Draft.
TRANSACTION:
Columbus Crew – Selected D Aaron Hohlbein in Stage 1 of the 2010 MLS Re-Entry Draft
