MLS Combine Special: UW’s George John

By Sean Grybos

Seattle Sounders F.C. is set to debut as Major League Soccer’s newest franchise this season.  George John (photo credit: University of Washington Athletic Communications) remained close to home as the in-state midfielder competed at the University of Washington.  After a successful collegiate career, is he in the team’s MLS SuperDraft plans?

John, a central midfielder, ended his career early after sustaining a meniscus injury.  His play was so well respected that even after injury he was named as first-team selections on the 2008 NSCAA All-Far West Region Team and the All-Pac-10 Team.

George John

How is the injury healing?

My injury is healing alright, I just got cleared to play about 4 weeks ago so I have been building my knee and body back into playing shape in preparation for the combine. It's not 100% yet, but I'll be there soon.

Has it altered your training regiment?

Well, at first just like when you come back from any injury you want to take it easy. So I was extra careful not to push it too hard when I returned to the field, but after the first couple weeks I have able to play as hard as I want without worrying about it too much.

When you reflect on your college career, what are you most proud of?

I would have to say there are two particular things I'm most proud of in my career. First, I am pleased with my accomplishments in the classroom as well as on the soccer field. This year I was named the Pac-10 Men's soccer scholar athlete of the year. That award was particularly pleasing to my parents as well, because it shows that I have worked hard while in college not only to excel on the field but to learn in the classroom. Secondly, I think I am proud of how far I have come along in my soccer playing ability. My game has improved tremendously from my freshman year and I feel like this is an indicator of the amount of effort I put into soccer as well as the great coaching staff I had while at the UW.

What have you taken from your time with Emerald City FC?

I played for Emerald City F.C. for 6 years during my youth career. For my last four years I played under Brian Schmetzer and I feel that is when I really developed as a player. Much of my success can be credited to Brian as he coached me during my youth and has been a sort of mentor to me while in college. My Emerald City teams had some great players and I have very fond memories of my time spent with the club.

Have you spoken with former teammate Ely Allen looking for advice?

Yes, I've spoken with Ely quite a bit about the MLS combine and life as a professional soccer player. His advice to me was to be in as great of physical shape as possible for the combine and to not think too much about it. The combine is a great chance for me to showcase my skills, but at the same time I shouldn't get too worked up about it.

How has the atmosphere been out in the Seattle area with the Sounders F.C. ready to begin MLS play?

The atmosphere in Seattle surrounding soccer has been absolutely amazing. I feel like every time I bump into someone they are asking me about the Sounders F.C. team and just about soccer in general. It really seems like the whole city is taking an interest in the team and the MLS in general.

Would a dream scenario have you being selected by the Sounders in the MLS Draft?

A dream scenario for me would just to be drafted. It doesn't matter to me what team drafts me just so long as I get a chance to make a roster and show that I can play at the professional level. However, being drafted by the Sounders would definitely be very special to me because I grew up in the Seattle area and have been here my entire life. In addition, it would be beneficial because staying in Seattle would make it much easier for me to finish up my degree at the UW.

Sean Grybos is a contributor to Goal.com