Photo Courtesy of Mark Campbell

NEWARK, Del. -- University of Delaware senior men’s soccer standout, midfielder Darren Christie, has been invited to train with D.C. United of Major League Soccer in December.

“I am delighted for Darren that he has been recognized by the MLS scouts as someone that they feel has the potential to play in the MLS,” praised fourth-year head coach Ian Hennessy. “I know first-hand how rare it is for a college athlete to get the opportunity to play at the highest level of competition in their respective sport.”

Christie (at right) was named to the All-Colonial Athletic Association First Team announced by the conference office earlier this month. A third team All-CAA honoree a year ago, Christie tallied nine goals and a pair of assists to lead the Hens to finish tied for eighth in the league. The Huntsville, Ala. native helped Delaware to a 7-12 season, the most wins since the Blue Hens’ 2001 team, under direction of head coach Marc Samonisky, went 7-11-1 while in the American East Conference. Four of Christy’s team-high nine goals served as game winners.

Following a freshman season at Alabama A&M, Christie recorded a total of four goals and four assists during his sophomore and junior seasons at UD.

“Delaware had a lot of press a couple of years back when Joe Flacco went to the NFL and I think it helped put Delaware on the map for a lot of football players and fans. It would be terrific for both Darren and the University if he pushes on the MLS and gets to play against the likes of David Beckham,” stated Hennessy. “I believe his presence in the MLS will have positive effect on how our program is viewed by potential players and fans alike. It would raise the level of awareness for Delaware across the nation, not only as a place to get a great academic education, but also a great soccer experience.”

Headquartered in Washington, DC and playing home matches at RFK Stadium, D.C. United is the most successful professional soccer organization in the history of the United States. United is four-time MLS Cup Champions (1996, 1997, 1999 and 2004) and winners of the 1996 and 2008 U.S. Open Cup, the 1998 CONCACAF Champions Cup, the 1998 Interamerican Cup and the 1997, 1999, 2006 and 2007 MLS Supporters Shield.