Under the guidance of former Whitecap Nick Dasovic, five of Vancouver's brightest young starlets will be headed to Sunrise, Florida, to train with the U-20 National Team as they prepare for 2013 U-20 World Cup in Turkey. The list of players who will be making the trip includes such notables as Bryce Alderson, and Ben Fisk who have been on the National radar for the last few years. Both players had strong showings at the recent post season evaluation camp held by Whitecaps Head Coach Martin Rennie, and will look to build on their recent success' as they strive for a trip to Turkey.
Alderson impressed the Whitecaps staff enough to be given a MLS contract last month, and needs no introduction to our loyal readers. Ben Fisk is a speedy winger who will require further development, and did not make the same impression on Caps staff as Bryce. Even though he was not offered a contract, he was still good enough to not get bossed around by the big boys last month in Burnaby.[PRBREAK][/PRBREAK]
Caleb Clarke was also at last months end of season camp, but looked a bit out of place. There are two things you can't teach in sports. Size and Speed. Clarke possesses both. His raw talent is undeniable, and he could prove to be the most impressive of the three but he will take a little more time to progress. He will hopefully get some more guidance on proper positioning so he does not need to rely solely on his sheer athleticism to create opportunities. This is his first call up to the national squad but it will likely not be his last. The Whitecaps evaluation camp was likely quite an eye opener for someone who has been the big fish in a small tank among his peers. Competing with the best the country has to offer should only improve his game.
The Whitecaps Residency will also be sending two talented fullbacks to Florida, Daniel Stanese, and Ben McKendry. Each have represented The Reds at the U-17 and U-18 levels respectively. Both should get good work outs as there will only be one other centre back in camp
Another player who is on the squad but not listed as a member of the Whitecaps, but kind of is, is Keven Aleman, of Spanish Second Division side Real Valladolid. Aleman spent time as a member of TFC Youth system and has represented Canada previously. Rumours ran rampant that he would be joining every other national set up available to him this past spring, but it appears he has chosen to continue with the Canadian squad. Aleman's MLS rights are currently possessed by the Whitecaps and were acquired via the Terry Dunfield trade.
Should Alderson be captain this time around? Are you glad to see Keven Aleman is still a Canadian? Is Nick Dasovic the right man for this job?