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DU’s Banghart selected by Real Salt Lake
University of Denver defender Kris Banghart, from Fort Collins, was chosen by Real Salt Lake with the 64th pick of Thursday’s Major League Soccer draft.
After transferring to Denver for his sophomore year, Banghart started every game at defender for the past three seasons and served as co-captain as a senior. Banghart was instrumental in anchoring DU’s defense, helping the Pioneers win their first ever Mountain Pacific Sports Federation championship and their first berth in the NCAA Tournament in 2008.
“We are very proud of Kris and wish him the best in his opportunity at Real Salt Lake,” DU head coach Bobby Muuss said. “To be chosen by an organization like Real Salt Lake, who will be defending the MLS Cup, is a tremendous honor and achievement.”
Banghart was invited to attend the MLS combine, but he did not attend because of a slight quadriceps injury. Muuss said Banghart felt he could perform at about 85 percent efficiency but didn’t want to hurt the muscle and perform poorly.
“I have my fingers crossed that he gets a chance at the next level,” Muuss said. “I think he can play.”
RSL also features Nat Borchers, a former DU star, Rapids defender and Real Salt Lake’s 2009 MVP.
Portland midfielder Collen Warner (15th) and New Mexico’s Justin Davis (32nd) were also drafted by RSL.
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