Bill Hamid is already the youngest goalkeeper ever to win an MLS game. It's a title he stole from Tim Howard, his idol, and the man he someday wants to replace as starting goalkeeper for the U.S. National Team
MLS 2011 Preview: Bill Hamid Ready To Take Over The Reins
Bill Hamid
Position: Goalkeeper
Team: D.C. United
Nationality: United States
Age: 20
Having become the youngest goalkeeper to ever win a MLS match, he now looks to become the full-time starter
| Team | App. | SO |
|---|---|---|
| D.C. United | 8 | 1 |
Hamid signed with DC United as the team's first ever Home Grown Player in 2009 and he did it at the ripe age of 18. He’s come a long way since then, having beat out Troy Perkins for United’s starting goalkeeper position temporarily last year before taking a step back due to injury. Hamid started only eight games for D.C. in 2010, but he earned half of the team’s total number of wins, with three. His 1.25 goals against average was impressive, but he’s facing competition for the starting job again this year as United sent Perkins to the Portland Timbers in exchange for Steve Cronin this offseason.
What can Hamid do to improve his game?
If you believe the reports, then he’s already done it. While recovering from shoulder surgery this offseason, Hamid wasn’t able to spend much time practicing on the field. So he spent his time in the gym instead. Already an intimidating presence at 6-foot-3, Hamid bulked up even more. He went from looking like a blocking tight end to looking like a pass-rushing linebacker. Or maybe even like a professional wrestler. He also made the decision to grow up, improve his diet, eliminate bad habits, etc. Having Pat Onstad as his goalkeeper coach (and now as his competition also) surely can’t hurt. If Onstad can help Hamid improve his communication and decision-making on the field, this kid could go far.
How will you know when he’s figuring it all out?
If he can secure the starting role for D.C., Hamid will have to quickly learn how to lead a young and experienced back-line that will include rookie Perry Kitchen. Hamid is an excellent shot-stopper, but at times in 2010, he looked a bit hesitant coming off his line. When Hamid is starting consistently, communicating effectively, and acting as a leader, we’ll know he’s legit.
What’s a reasonable expectation in terms of production and playing time?
United fans are expecting big things from Hamid this year. Once the team doctors deem him fully-recovered and he’s cleared to play, I wouldn’t be surprised to see Hamid start around 75 percent of his team’s games this year. The future is now!
What’s the ceiling on Bill Hamid?
His ceiling is about as high as any player’s in the league. He wants to play for his National Team. He wants to play in Europe. Hamid’s got the right attitude. He can do it.
- Report by Martin Shatzer of Black and Red United
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