Jan. 15, 2009

Boston College senior fullback Paul Gerstenberger has been selected by the 2008 Major League Soccer Champion Columbus Crew in the second round - 30th overall - of the 2009 MLS SuperDraft.

"When I got picked, I was in shock," Gerstenberger said from his home in Schenectady, N.Y. "I was hoping to be drafted but I wasn't stressing myself out just in case I didn't ... But, to be picked by Columbus, which is obviously one of the best teams in the MLS, made things that much sweeter.

Gerstenberger registered 62 starts along the BC backline during his four-year collegiate career. He totaled 18 points - four goals and 10 assists - in 66 career appearances.

"The four years at BC have been really good," Gerstenberger continued. "Ed Kelly has been really good to me and I'm thankful for the chance to play soccer at Boston College and compete against the best teams in the country. That has given me the opportunity to get drafted."

He earned Atlantic Coast Conference All-Tournament Team honors during the team's run to the 2007 ACC Tournament title after stellar efforts in victories over Virginia, Virginia Tech and Wake Forest. Gerstenberger tallied one goal and one assist in leading the Eagles to a 3-1 semifinal-round victory over the Hokies on Nov. 16.