MLS Combine Special: Andrei Gotsmanov

Creighton's NCAA run ended at the quarterfinal mark this year, but that won't be where Andrei Gotsmanov's career stops. The midfielder is the next MLS Combine player profiled by Goal.com's Sean Grybos.

Jan 7, 2009 6:15:35 PM

MLS Combine participant Gotsmanov (Creighton University / Eric Francis)

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By Sean Grybos

Creighton, a Missouri Valley Conference power, enjoyed another successful season winning an 11th MVC tournament title. The 1-0 victory over Drake gave the team an automatic berth into the NCAA Division I Tournament which the Bluejays have now advanced to in each of the last 17 years. Creighton’s tournament run ended in the quarterfinals with a loss to Maryland, the eventual champion. The 1-0 defeat was the final collegiate game for midfielder Andrei Gotsmanov [photo courtesy Eric Francis, Creighton University).

Gotsmanov, an attacking midfielder, left the Bluejays’ program as one of the most distinguished players in team history. Born in Belarus, the midfielder sports a host of Continental skills leading him to be regarded as one of the top attacking players in the draft class. Gotsmanov led the league with 10 goals and was named the Missouri Valley Conference Player of the Year and MVC Tournament MVP. He also was a first-team selection on the 2008 NSCAA/adidas Men's Division I All-America Team.

Andrei Gotsmanov

Was your collegiate career a success?

Yea, it was a success. I have many positives opportunities for my future.

What was your favorite moment from the 2008 season?

My favorite moment was probably the win against UConn in overtime.

You scored 10 goals this past season, do you have a favorite?

The game against Gonzaga. Seth [Sinovic] crossed the ball and I hit a side volley in the goal for the first goal of the year.

How was the experience of playing your home games at Morrison Stadium?

Unbelievable. The stadium is by far the best in the country and fans are amazing. Every game it gets packed and I loved playing home games at the Morrison. I think I scored 90% percent of my career goals at home.

How have you been preparing for the MLS Combine?

Just by playing a lot and working out when I couldn’t play.

Are you excited to be heading down to Florida?

Yes. We worked hard for this opportunity so we are going to make the best out of it.

Are you happy to see the success of Belarus national team member Aliaksandr Hleb who played for Arsenal and now competes at Barcelona?

Of course, it’s always nice to have someone from your country being successful in the top European leagues.

Sean Grybos is a contributor to Goal.com

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