Former IU standouts impressed by Hoosier team

COLUMBUS, Ohio – During their years at IU, former Hoosier standout soccer players Danny O’Rourke, Jed Zayner and Ned Grabavoy received their A’s in “Soccer 101.” Now, all three players have reached the next level as professional players for MLS’s Columbus Crew. \nThis Saturday they had the opportunity to face their former team and lead its younger players by example in an exhibition match played at Capital University. After seeing their proteges in action, during the Crew’s 1-0 victory, these seasoned players were able to critique their performances.\n“They did well today,” said Zayner of the current IU team. Zayner sat out due to an injury. “I can’t wait to see them play this coming year.”\nO’Rourke was equally impressed with the Hoosiers’ showing.\n“When any college team plays a professional team they kind of bunker in a lot,” he said. “They played real good defense and it was hard to break them down. (It was) a tribute to them to only let one goal in.”\nIU has a long history with the Columbus Crew. Eight former IU players have gone on to play in Columbus.\n“It was great,” O’Rourke said. “Two Midwest teams with such a tradition together with the guys who played in the past like Todd (Yeagley) and guys like Ned (Grabavoy) who have come through.”\nLife has gone on for these three since their departures from IU in 2003 and 2004. All made appearances with the Chicago Fire Premier, a developmental team, before heading to teams such as the Los Angeles Galaxy, San Jose Earthquakes and Red Bull New York before ending up with the Crew. \nAlthough professional and amateur soccer come with different perks, Grabavoy has come to enjoy his new life.\n“I like it a lot. I think college was a good step for me to get ready – at Indiana especially,” he said. “I like waking up every day and knowing that I’m not just going to train but that’s kind of my job as well.”\nSeeing the new generation of IU players also brought back some old feelings in the graduates.\n“It was fun,” Zayner said after the game. “I saw those boys come out in the white jerseys, and I just remembered how awesome of a time I had at Indiana. I just wanted to suit up again.”\nO’Rourke felt nostalgic after playing his old team.\n“It’s good to play against guys you’re familiar with and see the coaches,” O’Rourke said. “It’s a fun time.”