jmeissen0 posted this article on our possibly own Hayden Woodworth on the MLS N&A board, but I thought folks might like to comment on it here. Hope the kid makes it. What I found encouraging is that it looked like he adjusted to the faster pace of play pretty quickly, and stayed within himself.
So by drafting him are we now officially part of the Phil Anchutz Christian Right Wing Conspiracy? https://www.bigsoccer.com/forum/showthread.php?threadid=30513 Dave
I'm still trying to get used to the nickname "Woodstock". As a Messiah fan I'm still used to simply using "Hayden" or "Woody". Anyway, Hayden's a sharp guy, and while it's not clear whether he will be able to make it and play at the MLS level or not, given this opportunity he certainly isn't going to shoot himself in the foot (i.e. try to be what he isn't or pretend that everything that worked at the D-III level will work here.). The article seemed to highlight the fact that Hayden is older than a lot of the players he was competeing against to be drafted and to some extent still is competing against to make it in the MLS. On one hand, his age is against him--two players of equal talent/skill, one 19, one 22, who do you take? But I think his age combined with his D-III experience and knowledge that he is fighting the odds can be a plus because of the maturity he's developed both on a personal level and in his mental approach to the game. He is ready to be a professional in every way on and off the field. He isn't going to be taking anything for granted and fully understands the hard work required to succeed. And as ursula mentioned, he is wise enough to stay within himself. He will quickly discover what he can and can't do at this level and will quickly adjust his game accordingly to give himself the best chance to succeed. And he's a consummate team player who knows how to gear his game for the good of the whole rather than individual attention, and seems to enjoy doing so. His mental approach, attitude, and effort will not be his short-comings if he can't make it at this level.
I have heard a lot of good things about this guy. I read an article early on during the combines that Ray Hudson was very impressed with his skill and poise on the ball. My buddy saw his championship game as a sophomore for Messiah, and i remember him telling me this guy was heads and heels above the rest, he made a pretty strong impression. I for one hope he makes the team.