New Jersey Youth Soccer Alumni Drafted in Third Round
The National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) held its 2015 College Draft on January 16th, with New Jersey-based Sky Blue FC adding six selections over four rounds. The team added some New Jersey flavor among those picks, with Greenbrook native Daphne Corboz being taken in the third round. Corboz was selected at No. 22 overall, coming off one of the most decorated careers in the history of Georgetown University. The explosive playmaker registered a total of 134 points over four seasons, scoring 47 goals and adding an additional 41 assists. Corboz, who attended Watchung Hills High School, made 80 starts in 82 matches while playing at Georgetown.
“Despite the winters, the state seems to be able to breed a plethora of soccer talent. Winning the NJ Youth Soccer State Cup and Region I Championships, going on to compete for the National Title, and playing club soccer for PDA are some of my best soccer memories,” says Corboz. “I was also fortunate to be part of the Olympic Development Program, where I played with and competed against the top players, further developing my game.”
One additional player who Sky Blue FC had its target on during the 2015 NWSL College Draft was Freehold native Danielle Colaprico. The former Red Bank Catholic star had an excellent college career while playing at the University of Virginia, ending her collegiate campaign as the all-time leader in assists (44) and appearances (100) in program history. Colaprico was taken by the Chicago Red Stars at No. 9 overall, one pick before Sky Blue FC was to be back on the clock. Colaprico was also a long-time standout on the NJ Youth Soccer ODP program for several years.
Sky Blue FC has looked for New Jersey talent in previous drafts, most recently in 2014 when it made Montclair native Maya Hayes the 6th overall selection.
“I’ve always been a believer that in order to excel in this sport, you must have a good foundation to build upon. I was fortunate enough to have NJ Youth Soccer and ODP to help me build that foundation,” Hayes explains. “Both of these programs played an integral part in my development and helped me become the player I am today.”
The former Penn State standout made 13 starts in 23 matches for Sky Blue FC during the 2014 NWSL season, adding a goal and an assist to the score sheet.
To learn more about New Jersey Youth Soccer, follow on Facebook and Twitter or call (609) 490-0725.
Photo Credit: Georgetown University
