Knights George, Creavalle selected in MLS SuperDraft

Senior midfielders Kevan George and Warren Creavalle were at home when they heard the news that they were drafted in the Major League Soccer SuperDraft. The two second-round selections simultaneously fulfilled the pair's lifelong dream and earned each a spot in UCF history.

"My whole life has been geared toward being a pro," George said. "For that dream to come true, it is a rewarding feeling, but I know the hard work starts now."

They became the second and third Knights to be drafted into the MLS on Thursday, when George was selected as the 29th overall pick by the Columbus Crew, and Creavalle was selected 37th overall by the Houston Dynamo.

"When I heard my name get called, it was just a big moment of relief, shock, enjoyment and excitement," Creavalle said.

Both players were invited to attend the MLS scouting combine in Fort Lauderdale in early January. The combine gave them a chance to play in front of MLS coaches and scouts and interview with interested organizations.

"It was a good experience overall," Creavalle said. "It was a little nerve racking at first, but once I settled down and I really got to play my game, it was a really good experience."

Creavalle's experience at the combine proved to be a misrepresentation of his draft-day fortune.

"I was surprised because I had interviewed with two teams while I was at the combine and those two teams passed on me, so I thought I was going to be waiting for the supplemental draft," Creavalle said.

George and Creavalle's draft stock was boosted by their college résumés. The duo was selected first team All Conference USA this season after Creavalle had been placed on the College Soccer News 2011 Preseason All-American Second Team. Both players gained experience in the NCAA tournament this year as UCF made it to the second round before falling to USF.

"The coaching staff, my head coach Bryan Cunningham and the assistants, they definitely did a great job helping me get better on and off the field. I'm very happy and thankful for their work," George said.

As Creavalle moves on to play in Houston, he is grateful for his time at UCF.

"I really appreciate all of the fans at UCF. All of the friends and people I met at UCF that showed me love and support have meant a lot to me in this journey, and it has really kept me going. I appreciate every last one of them."