April 2, 2007

Fairfax, Va.--George Mason University's men's soccer head coach Greg Andrulis has announced the hiring of Kenny Arena as an assistant coach. Arena will be responsible for player development, recruiting and scheduling.

"After an extensive national search, I am thrilled that Kenny Arena has accepted a position on the George Mason soccer staff," said Andrulis. "Kenny possesses tremendous experience as a player, having had success at the highest levels while playing with the United States National Teams and in Major League Soccer."

Most recently, Arena served as a volunteer assistant coach with the University of Virginia for the 2006 season and helped lead the Cavaliers to the NCAA Division I Men's Soccer semifinals. While at UVa, Arena's main responsibility was player development. In addition, Arena has been training and coaching club teams since 1998 in McLean, Vienna, Herndon and Arlington.

Arena played three seasons in Major League Soccer as he was with the NY Metrostars for two years (Feb. 2003-Dec. 2004) and then played with the DC United during the 2005 campaign. In August 2002, Arena was a member of the U-23 United States National Team and was also a member of the U-20 U.S. National Team (Jan. 2000-June 2001). The U-20 squad participated in the World Championships in Argentina, where Arena scored a goal against Ukraine.

"Kenny's passion for the sport has led him to pursue a career in coaching at the collegiate level," commented Andrulis. "His experience as a player, as well as an assistant coach at one of the country's premier soccer programs, Virginia, will be beneficial for our team and program. I look forward to working with Kenny as we continue to pursue excellence for Mason on the field, as well as in the classroom."

Arena played varsity soccer for UVA from August 1999-December 2002 and earned All-Atlantic Coast Conference Second Team honors his senior season. Arena's father, Bruce, is currently the Sporting Director/Head Coach for the New York Red Bulls and is the former head coach of the U.S. National Team.

Arena replaces Kris Kelderman, who is now an assistant coach with the MLS Wizards.