Earthquakes first round draft pick Andrew Tarbell
Thoughts on being selected by Quakes:
“I’m excited, I really can’t explain another way. You go in having some idea, but knowing anyone can choose you. That uncertainty made it part of the fun. It’s weird because it’s been going on for about a month. I signed a contract with the League before Christmas. It was weird signing the contract and then having to wait. I am happy to head to San Jose.”
On sleeping the night before the draft:
“I slept fine. I had a big dinner with my parents. They helped me unwind and take my mind off things. It wasn’t too bad.”
On parents’ reaction:
“They were happy. They are so excited for me to start this experience - to start a professional career. I’m sure they will be excited to hang out in California!”
Thoughts on going to San Jose:
“I’m thinking ‘that’s a long way from home but why not?'. I’m 22 and have my whole life ahead of me. I want to make some new friends, have some new experiences and I can’t wait to get started.”
On his attributes as a goalkeeper:
“I roam around my box. I’m aggressive coming for crosses, I’m a good shot stopper, I’m going to work hard and be a vocal presence behind the back four.”
Message for Quakes fans:
“I can’t wait to meet the fans and play in front of them. I’m excited to get to know people in and around the community and be part of the San Jose culture.”
Major at Clemson:
“I finished my degree in civil engineering in December so I’ll be looking at the stadium from a different perspective.”
Earthquakes general manager John Doyle
Overall thoughts on draft:
“We thought Andrew was the best goalkeeper available and we are happy to bring him to San Jose. We have an excellent number one and two in David Bingham and Bryan Meredith. Now we have Andrew to add to the competition at that position. Patrick had a good college career at a very good school so he has a good pedigree. He has goals in him – we’ve seen that at the college level. We’re looking forward to seeing what both Andrew and Patrick can do.”
Earthquakes head coach Dominic Kinnear
Overall thoughts on draft:
“We added some depth and competition. Pre-season is really busy – there’s a lot of minutes to go around. Both guys will get the chance to show why we picked them.”
On plan for draft:
“You have something in mind going in. We feel good about Andrew’s pick and then we had a group of guys in the second round that we were looking at and Patrick was in that group so we are happy he was available.”
Looking ahead to next two rounds on Tuesday:
“We’ll get together on Monday to look at what’s left and try to see where we need to put in some players. Some guys we know already and are good possibilities. We’ll add them to the list and take it from there.”
On possible gems in late rounds:
“You never know, there are surprises everywhere. A guy could come in catch your eye, feel confident and find a place on the team. You never know so we will have to see the players when they come to camp.”
