TPOV was able to interview D.C. United Academy player Dario Redondo. I had the pleasure of playing with Dario in High School on our intramural team "Franchise FC". We were unable to win the championship, aka the Castillo Cup, my Senior Year but Dario has gone on to achieve extraordinary things since moving back to Virgina last year.
TPOV: You where invited to play in England with the Chelsea Academy team. Tell us about that and how it felt to be named Player of the Tournament with the team in Italy.
Dario Redondo: The feeling was undescribable. At first when they called my name I was surprised I didnt expect it. When it finally came to me, it was the most amazing feeling in the world.
TPOV: You were also scouted and brought to France for two weeks to train with the Lyon Academy team. Did you enjoy your time with Lyon more than Chelsea? If so why?
Dario: I am going to have to say I had a better time with Chelsea then Lyon only because of the language. It was hard for me to understand and adjust in France.
TPOV: What is your most memorable moment from your time spent training in Europe? And how has it changed as a player?
Dario: I dont really have a memorable momment, just going to europe in general was amazing. I think it has made me more mature as a player, not having any fear going against anybody I play.
Dario: I most definitly enjoyed playing club a lot more then high school. I enjoy playing with better players and better competition. The higher the level, better player i become.
TPOV: Since moving back to Virginia you have joined the DC United Youth Academy. What steps did you take to achieve this?
Dario: I set up a resume with all the stuff i have done over the years. They were impressed so they offered me a 2 week trial. Which I did during my spring.
TPOV: DC United finished last season at the bottom of the table. Being that your part of their youth academy, does this have an affect on you?
Dario: Yes something like that will always have an affect on me. I always feel that I can make a difference somehow.
TPOV: Do you plan on making an attempt to go pro out of HS or are you planning on attending a university?
Dario: If the opportunity comes I would love to play pro. If not, i will just take another step towards that and play college ball.
TPOV: If/when you go pro would you pursue staying and playing MLS or going over seas and playing in Europe?
Dario: It personally doesnt matter to me. Europe would be a dream, I would love to play there but I would be content with the MLS.
Dario: I personally dont really think so. I think what it has grown to become in the United States is pretty impressive but wont grow anymore. Maybe if the world cup was over in the USA.
TPOV: According to Wikipedia you are Italian. Is this true?
Dario: [Laughs] No i am not. Im half Columbian, half Puerto Rican.
TPOV: You are in the US National Pool, is one of your goals to eventually earn a spot on the US Men’s National Team?
Dario: Well that will always be a soccer players goal, to represent their country and play in the world cup. So yes i would love that.
TPOV: Did last summers World Cup influence how you feel about the possibility of representing your country and possibly bringing a World Cup home? If so is this something you dream about achieving?
Dario: Of course that would influence me. Greatest achievement ever for a soccer player is win the world cup. Yes it will always be one of my true goals and dream.
