MLS NEXT Pro announced today that Austin FC II goalkeeper Damian Las was selected to participate in Goalie Wars at the 2023 MLS All-Star Skills Challenge pres. by AT&T 5G in Washington, D.C. Las is one (1) of four (4) MLSNP goalkeepers to compete in the exhibition event, which will take place on July 18 at Audi Field.
“It’s an honor to be selected to participate in Goalie Wars at the MLS All-Star Skills Challenge,” said Las. “I’d like to thank my coaches and teammates for their guidance and support this season. I look forward to competing and representing Austin at this unique event.”
Las will compete in a head-to-head single-elimination tournament. The challenge features three (3) 90-second rounds – Semifinal One (Round One), Semifinal Two (Round Two), and Final (Round Three). The one-on-one competition features two (2) goalkeepers attempting to score on their opponent by throwing, kicking, or drop-kicking the ball while also trying to protect their own goal. The goalkeeper with the most goals at the end of the clock wins.
“We’re excited for Damian to compete in Goalie Wars at the MLS All-Star Skills Challenge,” said Austin FC Interim Sporting Director Sean Rubio. “He’s a talented young goalkeeper who has grown a lot since joining Austin FC. He’s had an excellent season so far and we look forward to supporting him from Austin.”
Las was awarded Goalkeeper of the Month for March/April and has played every minute for ATXFC II through the team’s first 16 matches. He has made 39 saves to go with his league-leading seven (7) clean sheets and currently has the second highest save percentage (79.6) among goalkeepers to appear in at least eight (8) matches.
