NEW YORK – Two former Columbia men’s soccer players will be in action in Orlando starting Thursday, during the Major League Soccer Player combine and the National Premier Soccer League Showcase.
Arthur Bosua was one of 60 selections to be invited to the player combine, while Rhys Williams, who spent last season playing for the New York Cosmos B team, will take part in the NPSL Showcase.
Both players should benefit from an opportunity to showcase their talents. Bosua will play in front of a committee of MLS coaches from all 23 clubs, Williams in front of scouts and coaches.
Following the combine, which runs through Jan. 17, the MLS SuperDraft will be held Jan. 19.
“We are all very excited for both Arthur and Rhys to be selected to the combines,” Columbia head coach Kevin Anderson said. “Arthur’s body of work over the last few years, obviously not possible without his teammates, has provided him with this opportunity. For Rhys, his journey and production in the last year with the Cosmos, along with all the support and pressures that comes with being a professional player, make him more prepared than ever before.”
This past season, Bosua was named a second team All-American and the Ivy League offensive player of the year for the second time in his career. The 6-foot-4 forward led the conference in scoring with 12 goals and five assists, including a four-goal game in a 6-0 defeat of Harvard.
Williams spent 2017 with the Cosmos B team while playing most of his home games at Rocco B. Commisso Soccer Stadium. In his NPSL Showcase bio, the 6-foot defender was touted as a fast, smart, and strong player. While at Columbia, Williams started in 35 of 49 games played, finishing his career with seven goals and five assists, while being a part of the 2016 Ivy League championship team.
