The New York Red Bulls selected UCLA midfielder Leo Stolz with the 18th overall pick, and University of California forward Stefano Bonomo with the 39th pick, in the 2015 MLS SuperDraft on Thursday afternoon at the Pennsylvania Convention Center in downtown Philadelphia.
LEO STOLZ
Stolz, a native of Munich, Germany, was a two-time captain for the Bruins. During his three seasons, he compiled 20 goals and 22 assists in 63 appearances, earning All-American honors twice and leading UCLA to the postseason three times. As a senior he netted a team-leading nine goals and six assists, seeing UCLA through to the NCAA semifinals.
Earlier this week, Stolz earned the 2014 Mac Hermann Award, which recognizes the best player in college soccer. He was a finalist for the trophy last year.
"This is the Mac Hermann award winner, and we think this is the most pro-ready player," said Red Bulls head coach Jesse Marsch. "We expect him to contribute this year."
- Position: Midfielder
- College: UCLA
- Height: 5-11
- Weight: 170
- DOB: 2/15/1991
- Hometown: Munich, Germany
STEFANO BOMANO
In the second round, the Red Bulls picked forward Stefano Bonomo from the University of California. Bonomo, a native of Hillsborough, Calif., was named to the All-PAC 12 Conference First Team as a senior. He compiled 22 goals and eight assists in 66 career games at Cal.
Bonomo holds dual citizenship in the United States and Italy. He spent time with U.S. Under-18 national team camps in 2011.
- Position: Forward
- College: University of California
- Height: 6-2
- Weight: 170
- DOB: 01/25/1993
- Hometown: Hillsborough, Calif.
The Red Bulls begin the season on March 8 at Sporting Park, against Sporting KC. The team will return home to open the fifth season of soccer at Red Bull Arena on March 22 when they host rival D.C. United.
