DC United visits Saturday and the Wizards will begin their 12th 13th season at the CommunityAmerica Ballpark in Kansas City, Kansas. That’s native son Jack Jewsbury, beginning his 6th season, featured in the newest jersey. Jack’s played in both the right back and right midfield position during the preseason but it appears that he’ll stay in the outside back position in the new 3-5-2 alignment the Wizards are using. He’s one of only six players on the roster with at least 5 years of MLS experience, and his intelligence will be needed on the back line with Jimmy Conrad.
The key theme for the season seems to be focused on Coach Curt Onalfo’s opportunity to continue building a team that can compete for an entire season. While the Wizard’s returned to the playoffs last year after a two year absence, it required a win in the final regular season game to reach that point. The team seems to be responding and at least one national correspondent is asking the question - Beware the Wizards?
With the new home pitch, I’ll have to wait to offer any opinions on best seats but here’s the map and parking information from the Wizards site.
Who’s planning on attending the Opener? I’m guessing Max Duncan (Joplin 2010) and family might be there, along with his KC Juniors U16 teammates. Personally, I’m hoping to catch the game on Direct Kick at Coester’s. Mark Coe has committed to becoming a soccer-friendly sports bar. The game is being broadcast on a delayed basis, beginning at 10pm Saturday night. Watch for an update in the next day or two.
One Comment
Nice preview, Steve. Let’s hope the team lives up to the offseason hype.
PS -This is the Wizards 13th season.
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