Young Crystal Palace Baltimore star to play on U-20 U.S National Team

Crystal Palace Baltimore defender Korey Veeder has been selected to play for the U-20 US Men’s National Team in the Cuadrangular Internacional Tournament in Peru. Palace Baltimore has granted him a temporary release to join the U-20 team from September 1-12.

“Korey has been excellent for us this season,” said Jim Cherneski, Palace Baltimore Head Coach. “He has a very mature football brain that allows him to read the game beyond his years. That coupled with clean technique gives our team great options for building out of the back and eliminating problems before they arise in defense.”

Veeder has proven that age is not an issue in becoming a professional. The eighteen year old has become a regular on the Palace Baltimore squad. He has played in 16 games this season, tallying one assist in the 1322 minutes he has been on the pitch.

In addition to being a blooded professional, Veeder is no stranger to international competition either. During his time as a member of the US U-17 National Team, the 5’11, 170lb St Petersburg, FL native made 21 appearances for his country. 

“I’ve kept my eye on Korey for some time,” said U-20 Men’s National Team Head Coach, Thomas Rongen. “I’m looking forward to seeing what he can do. He warrants every inclusion in this selection based on the fact that he has played some 16 odd professional games.”

“He’s one a very few 18 year olds that play on a professional team. I can’t wait to see him play,” Rongen continued. “He will be playing some very tough competition in a hostile environment. To see him play will be a great measuring stick to see if he has what it takes to be in the top 21.”

The U-20 team is slated to play some of South America’s toughest international squads in this Round Robin-style tournament. Paraguay, Columbia and Peru are rumored to be on the cards for Rongen’s team when they head to Peru in September.

“I can’t wait,” said Veeder. “I’m looking forward to the challenge. I was a little disappointed that I couldn’t make it down to Australia for the U-18 tournament in 2008. I’ve been working on my strength and speed this season. Ultimately, I’m working towards being included in the 2011 U-20 World Cup.”