Yomby William QnA/Photos from Practice

As promised, we're back with a QnA. Wizards second-round selection Yomby William of Old Dominion stayed after practice for a quick chat. Yomby is a delightful young guy who is very excited to be playing soccer and finishing up school. His smile is contagious. Now for the QnA:

Defender Yomby William comes to the Kansas City Wizards from Old Dominion University and Bafoussam, Cameroon. William came to the United States in the fall of 2005 and spent the last three years at ODU, studying economics and playing center back. William is just two classes shy of graduation with a bachelor’s degree from ODU and will finish the required courses this spring. He stopped by after this morning’s practice for a quick QnA session with Hillcrest Road. William was all smiles as he told us about his family back in Cameroon and his hopes for the season.

What is your favorite part of living in the United States?
I like the mentality of the people here, the soccer and the school. I am pleased to be graduating this spring and still playing soccer.

What is your favorite soccer moment of all time?
When I found out I would be drafted by the Wizards. I was jumping up and down when my college coach called to tell me.

What did your parents say when you told them you were drafted by the Wizards?
They were very proud. They were so happy—so full of joy. They just told me to make sure that I finished my classes. I have a big family—three brothers and three sisters—back in Cameroon that I haven’t seen since I left. Now that I am playing professionally, I hope I will be able to go back and see them sometime soon. I am the first in my family to play soccer in the U.S.

Which player did you look up to as a young player? Why?
Paolo Maldini (AC Milan/Italy) because he is such a good defender. He has good team spirit and all the qualities a solid defender must have.

What are your goals for the season?
I want to help the team win a title this year. I will fight for a starting spot and hopefully help the team be successful.

What’s your favorite off-field hobby?
Tennis.

Did you watch the Australian Open?
Yes, I was a little disappointed about Federer not advancing. The fans did not seem to like Djokovic very much in the final.

What should Kansas City Wizards fans know about you?
I’m very happy to be here!

Sorry it's a little blury. Yomby kept on laughing!

Now for some more photos from this morning's session:

Here Coach instructs from left to right Tyson Wahl, Carlos Marinelli, Kurt Morsink, Ryan McMahen, Ryan Raybould, Michael Kraus, Aaron Hohlbein.

Goalkeeper Boris Pardo smothers a shot from Eric Kronberg during goalkeeper training.

Supplemental Draft selection Tom Gray holds the ball against Kerry Zavagnin and the blue squad.

Coach speaks with Bob Luder of the Kansas City Star after practice.