Know Your Yanks: Marcus Hahnemann

One of a long line of bald U.S. goalkeepers, veteran Marcus Hahnemann will be heading to his first World Cup this June. Will he get his moment to shine?

Marcus Hahnemann's journey to the 2006 FIFA World Cup has taken a variety of twists and turns since he began his pro career in the A-League in 1994. He made his USA debut the same year, playing in three matches for the Stars and Stripes, but he didn't suit up for the Nats again until 2003.
The years in between his U.S. appearances provided a series of professional changes. Hahnemann left the A-League in 1997, signing with the Colorado Rapids. He played two and a half seasons with Colorado before transferring to Fulham FC
(a seemingly popular destination for American players). He didn't see much playing time with Fulham, and was loaned to Rochdale AFC (who happen to play in the lowest professional level in England, League Two of The Football League).
Fortunately for Hahnemann, he didn't stay long, as Fulham loaned him out again the same year, this time to Reading FC. He eventually made a permanent switch to Reading, where he became the first-choice goalkeeper and finally began to achieve true professional success. In 2005-06, he teamed up with fellow U.S. international Bobby Convey, to lead Reading to its first-ever promotion to the English Premier League. In honor of his efforts, he was named to the PFA Championship Team of the Year.
Hahnemann is an intimidating, aggressive keeper who excels in organizing the defense in front of him. His recent re-appointment to the national team is a reflection of his strong play at Reading, and even though he is currently the third choice, he will push for the number two goalkeeping spot. Don't expect to see him play in Germany, unless he has a very strong camp and the U.S. team encounters serious injury problems in goal.

Career Highlights:

1994: Makes pro debut with the Seattle Sounders (USA, A-League). Makes U.S. Men's National Team debut.

1997: Signs with Colorado Rapids (USA, Major League Soccer).

1999: Joins Fulham FC (England, Division Two) from MLS on a $90,000 transfer. Gains promotion to Division One with Fulham.

2001: Loaned to Rochdale AFC (England, Football League, League Two) from Fulham. Loaned again to Reading FC (England, Division Two).

2002: Gains promotion to Division One with Reading.

2003: Earns first USA cap in nine years.

2005: Wins Gold Cup with USA.

2006: Gains promotion to Premier League with Reading. Is named to PFA Championship Team of the Season.