FREDERICKSBURG, VA. -  (Monday, May 5^th 2008) – The FC Fredericksburg Gunners are pleased to announce that former Chancellor High School stars Ken Manahan and David Sanford will play for the squad during the 2008 season.  The former All-State high school players, both of whom now play for James Madison University, will be in uniform when the Gunners kickoff their campaign this Sunday, May 11^th, at 5 o’clock, against the Rhode Island Stingrays at the Fredericksburg Academy Athletic Complex. 

“The Fredericksburg soccer scene is blowing up,” said Sanford, who played 6 games for the Dukes as a freshman, and started 1 game.  “The atmosphere for the games is great, and I really want to be a part of it.”

Manahan concurred and added “what the Gunners are doing for the soccer community in Fredericksburg is great!  Being able to play close to home for a team like this is going to be fun, but at the same time we need to get results on the field.”

Manahan tied a school record by starting 19 games, and set a school record for freshmen by having the lowest goals against average (1.29) and minutes played (1,820).  His height (6 feet 5 inches) and agility have made him one of the elite goalkeepers in the country.

Both players should have an impact on the team, and Gunners General Manager Brian Shumate added “They are great additions.  It’s good to see Fredericksburg boys coming home to play.  That is why we came here.”

The FC Fredericksburg Gunners are a part of the Mid-Atlantic Division, and contains the Richmond Kickers Future, Virginia Legacy, Hampton Roads Piranhas, Reading Rage, and the Northern Virginia Royals.  They will play a 16-game season.  The schedule is augmented by participation in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup, and various exhibitions. Players have the ability to compete in the PDL throughout the summer months in a professionalized setting while maintaining their collegiate eligibility. The league is the proving ground for players that aspire to reach the highest-levels of the game, while providing affordable family entertainment within their city.