USL: 2005 First Division Awards
- by Soccer America , Sep 30, 2005
Jason Jordan (Vancouver Whitecaps)
Jordan finished as the teamÆs leading scorer for the fourth straight year and the fifth time overall. His numbers were also good enough to earn the leagueÆs scoring (27 points) and goalscoring (17) titles.
Coach of the Year
Nick DeSantis (Montreal Impact) In just his second season, DeSantis has already earned a USL First Division championship (2004) and a USL First Division regular-season title (2005). His squad set numerous club records including lowest number of goals allowed (15) and fewest losses (3) this season.
Defender of the Year
Taylor Graham (Seattle Sounders)
With the loss of 2003 All-League defender and team captain Danny Jackson for the year on the second day of training camp to an ACL tear, Graham stepped up to help lead the Sounders to the third-best defensive performance on the year with 25 goals allowed. The former Kansas City Wizards player played every minute for the Sounders and recorded two goals. He scored both in a win over Portland, earning Player of the Week honors.
Rookie of the Year
Dan Kennedy (Puerto Rico Islanders)
The UCSB product played every minute in goal for the Islanders, earning a 10-10-8 record and five shutouts on the season. His 114 saves were good for second in the league, just 10 behind SeattleÆs Preston Burpo. He helped lead the second-year club to within one point of the postseason.
