Part 4: DCU Past and Present Interviews: Greg Janecki

By: jon | December 22nd, 2008

Here’s another interview, this one with Greg Janecki, DC United’s new centerback. He filled in admirably at the end of bad season, providing stiff defense and even a goal. Here are his answers to a few questions I asked him.

Jon- For people who may be new to the team, or weren’t paying very close attention at the end of a long season, you are a new face. Tell us about your trip from USL-2 to starting in MLS? How were you contacted? What was the trial like?

Greg- Well I played for the Pittsburgh Riverhounds over the summer, but we didn’t make the playoffs. I went back home for a few weeks before I was contacted by Dave Kasper. Dave was looking for players to fill in for reserve games and he contacted my coach from Pitt., Gene Klein. It was definitely not expected. The trial started off rocky but eventually I started to get comfortable with my surroundings. I was given the opportunity to play in CONCACAF games since we were out of it early which helped me out a lot. I played pretty well in those games and was given a chance in the last three MLS games of the season. It all happened really fast, but I had a great time.

Jon- You did very well in your short time with DC last season. How do you see yourself in this league? Do you like to get forward? Or are you more of a defense-only centerback?

Greg- I’m more of a defensive center back. I won’t get forward a whole lot except for corners and free kicks. Hopefully I’ll put a few in next season with my head.

Jon- You scored a goal against Marathon. You also looked very cool and calm about it, presumably because you guys were still down 1. What did it feel like to get your first professional goal?

Greg- It was exciting to get my first goal, although I may not have shone it. Like you said we were down so it wasn’t the time for a celebration. Hopefully there will be many more like that next season in situations where I can celebrate.

Jon- Congrats on the contract. Where has management told you that they picture you coming into the new season? Has “starting” come up in the conversation?

Greg- I haven’t been told anything for sure. Nothing is ever set in stone. My goal is to come into camp in shape and ready to go so I can earn a starting spot. I have a lot of things I need to get better at and I’m excited to get back into the swing of things.

Jon- Do you have any plans to start a website, like some former DC United defenders? Your Google search is pretty sparse, so I’ll do my best on here to get you some hits!

Greg- To be honest with you I haven’t thought about a website at all. I didn’t know players did that. I’m more worried about making a name for myself on the field right now. Maybe after I do that I will think about a website. I will always appreciate getting good press. Anything you can do for me I’d appreciate.