Jan. 31, 2008

FAIRFAX, Va. - George Mason men's soccer Head Coach Greg Andrulis announced today the addition of former U.S. U-17 National Team star Axel Levry to the team's roster. The Fort Washington, Md. native is expected to provide an immediate spark to the team at the midfield/forward spot next season.

Levry earned his high school degree in December of 2007 and has enrolled at George Mason University for the spring semester of 2008. While getting acclimated to the demands of taking college courses, Levry will also train with the Patriots to prepare for the fall soccer season.

"Axel is an outstanding young man and a tremendous soccer player. We are thrilled to bring him into the George Mason soccer family," Andrulis said. "He is a great athlete who has incredible individual skills and is someone who is exciting to watch. His experience at the national level will expedite his transition to college soccer. Having him train with us this spring will help him become familiar with his teammates and make for a smooth transition leading to the fall season."

Beginning in January of 2006, Levry trained daily with the top high school players in the nation as part of U.S. Soccer's Under-17 Residency Program, held at IMG Academy in Bradenton, Fla. As part of the program, Levry was one of 40 elite players that lived on campus at IMG Academy, training with the U.S. Soccer U-17 coaching staff during the mornings and attending classes during the afternoon. The program fields two full teams that train together during the week and get the chance to compete against club, college and international teams on the weekends. Levry finished the 2007 season with five starts in eight appearances, tallying a goal and two assists.

In addition to his U-17 National Team experience, Levry earned numerous accolades for his impressive play. He is a two-time NSCAA/adidas Boys Youth All-America Team selection, making the team in 2006 and 2007. Levry also earned PARADE All-America honors in 2007 as one of the top players in the nation.

Prior to attending the U.S. Soccer U-17 Residency Program in Florida, Levry attended Oxon Hill High School, where he also participated in track and field. Levry played club soccer for McLean FC.