March 24, 2006

SALT LAKE CITY – Former South Carolina soccer player Joey Worthen has signed a contract with Major League Soccer’s Real Salt Lake, the organization announced earlier this week.

Worthen, a graduate of Cottonwood High School in Salt Lake, most recently played with the United Soccer League’s Second Division Richmond Kickers. Prior to joining the Kickers, he played for the Pittsburgh Riverhounds, a team that drafted him out of college in 2002.

A four-year starter at Carolina, Worthen competed for the Gamecocks from 1998-2001 and served as a team captain during his senior season. He was a two-time All-South Region selection (1999 and 2001) and led the Gamecocks to three NCAA Tournament appearances. Worthen finished his career with 65 points 25 goals and 15 assists. He was a Parade High School All-American and one of Soccer America’s top 25 recruits in 1998.

Worthen joins three other former South Carolina players who are currently competing in Major League Soccer. Brad Guzan (2003-04) is entering his second season with CD Chivas USA; Clint Mathis (1994-97) begins his eighth season in the MLS and first with the Colorado Rapids; Josh Wolff (1995-97) opens his ninth season in the MLS and fourth year with the Kansas City Wizards.