During his years as a defensive standout for the Virginia men's soccer team, Kenny Arena's teammates nicknamed him "Donkey" for his unique but effective style of play. Since leaving Virginia in 2003, "Donkey" has taken his talents to the professional level as a member of the New York/New Jersey MetroStars of Major League Soccer.
Arena had a memorable career at Virginia. His outstanding defensive play helped to lead the men's soccer team to great success. The team was ranked No. 1 in the nation during parts of the 2000 and 2002 seasons. The 2001 season saw the Cavaliers compile an undefeated 16-0-1 record during the regular season. In addition to the team's accomplishments, Arena experienced individual success. He was one of three Virginia players to be chosen for the U.S. Under-20 National Team.
Following his senior season, in which he was named Second-Team All-ACC, Arena was selected by the MetroStars in the fourth round of the 2003 SuperDraft. He started to see action early on as a rookie, and went on to play in 10 of the team's 30 games, including five starts. Arena's second season in the MLS came to a close two weeks ago when the MetroStars were eliminated by D.C. United in the league playoffs. As a defensive reserve, he once again played in 10 games and scored a goal for the MetroStars. Arena said he hopes that his playing time will increase as his professional career progresses.
"I'd love to start for a team," Arena said. "You assume whatever role you're given, but you want to establish yourself as a starter."
Since entering the MLS, Arena has faced the challenge of adjusting to playing center back, a position different from the one he filled during most of his time as a Cavalier.
"He played as a holding midfielder for us, and I've always thought he was a possible center back," Virginia coach George Gelnovatch said. "He's turned into a pretty good one."
In addition to his new position, Arena has also had to acclimate to the speed of play in professional soccer.
"You have to deal with everyone being a little bit [stronger] and faster," he said. "The challenge is to figure out ways to run with them."
Arena has benefited from playing alongside veteran defender Eddie Pope, who has been a member of the MLS since its inception in 1996.
"Playing with guys like Eddie just makes you better," Arena said. "One, you can learn from them. Two, when you play defense, having people like that helps cover for you."
Arena said he remembers his time on the Virginia men's soccer team fondly, particularly the high level of play that he was exposed to as a Cavalier.
"It was just great to finally play with really good players," he said. "It was the first team I played on that had really good soccer players on it. It was a great experience playing with All-Americans."
Gelnovatch said he expects good things to come for his former player.
"Kenny is obviously one of the great players in our program and one of the many that have moved on to the professional ranks," Gelnovatch said. "He's not a starter, but he's doing very well as a reserve center back for the MetroStars. I feel like he's only been in the league two years and he's got a bright future"
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