News

Cosmos Add Experienced Defender Darrius Barnes

The veteran joins after a lengthy spell with the New England Revolution
New York Cosmos Staff | Mar 24, 2017

The New York Cosmos announced today the signing of versatile defender Darrius Barnes ahead of the 2017 NASL season. As per club policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.

“Darrius is yet another great addition to our 2017 squad,” Cosmos coach Giovanni Savarese said. “As we get closer to our season opener, we want to make sure we prepare our roster the best possible way and adding an experienced player like Darrius is getting us closer to where we want to be.”

Barnes, 30, spent most of his professional career in MLS. He was drafted by the New England Revolution in the fourth round of the 2009 MLS SuperDraft. He featured at both the fullback and center back positions for New England. He was the only field player in MLS to compete in every minute of the 2009 MLS season.

Barnes spent a total of eight seasons at New England, starting 111 of his 129 appearances. He logged over 10,000 minutes of play for the Revs. He also featured in a 2013 U.S. Open Cup match, recording an assist, and was part of the 2016 Cup-winning team. 

Prior to joining New England, the Raleigh, North Carolina, native played youth soccer for the Capital Area Soccer League and Triangle Futbol Club. He led TFC to the championship of the Tampa Bay Sun Bowl in December 2004. He was a member of the 2007 Carolina RailHawks U-23 squad. Barnes also participated in numerous prestigious programs, including the Super-Y Regional Olympic Development Program (2004) and the Adidas Elite Soccer Program (2003 and 2004).

A Duke University grad, Barnes made 76 appearances, including 70 starts, during his four-year collegiate career with the Blue Devils. During his senior year, he earned All-ACC honors and was named to the NSCAA All-South Region first team. He scored one goal in 18 games and contributed to 32 shutouts on defense. He was named Duke Rookie of the Year in 2005.

“I am looking forward to playing this season with the New York Cosmos,” Barnes said. “This is, without a doubt, one of the most regarded soccer clubs in the United States and one can only feel proud of defending its colors.”

The Cosmos have also announced the signing of local product Salvatore Barone to the 2017 roster. Barone, 21, joins the club after training with the senior team during this year’s preseason. In 2016, Barone played with the Brooklyn Italians.

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