Former ECU Standout Named to U.S. Men's National Team

Clyde Simms

Former Pirate standout and current Richmond Kickers midfielder Clyde Simms has been named to the roster of 28 players for the upcoming U.S. Men's National Team training camp at the National Training Center in Carson, Calif., and World Cup Qualification game against Trinidad & Tobago on February 9, 2005 in Port of Spain, Trinidad.

A native of Jamestown, N.C., Simms was a two-time All Conference USA selection (2002-03), three-time captain and a second-team All Colonial Athletic Association (2000) honoree for the Pirates. He ended his career at ECU tied for fifth all-time in games played (72). In his senior season, he started all 17 games, tallying four points (one goal, two assists).

Simms is the only United Soccer League (USL) player named to the 28-man roster and has no prior National Team experience. Entering his second season with the Kickers, he appeared in 31 games, starting 28 during his rookie season (2004) in the now USL First Division. Named to the USL Team-of-the-Week twice (6/1/04 and 6/15/04), he recorded three goals last season, including two game-winners.

"We're very happy for Clyde," said head coach Michael Benn. "He has always had a professional work rate and attitude. Clyde had a great rookie season in the USL and is well deserving of this opportunity."

The team will train in at The Home Depot Center in Carson, Calif., and will depart for Trinidad on Feb. 7 after relocating to South Florida. Several European-based players are expected to join the squad in Florida either Feb. 6 or 7 after competing in their league matches that weekend.

Kickoff at the Queen's Park Oval is set for 2:30 p.m. ET (3:30 p.m. local), and the match will be broadcast live on ESPN2. Fans can also follow the match live on ussoccer.com's MatchTracker, presented by Philips Electronics.