DYNAMO ACQUIRES FORMER ALL-STAR NATE JAQUA FROM GALAXY

From Houston Dynamo Press Release

HOUSTON, TX (Tuesday, July 3, 2007) – The Houston Dynamo have acquired forward and former MLS All-Star Nate Jaqua from the Los Angeles Galaxy, in exchange for midfielder Kelly Gray and a second-round pick in the 2008 SuperDraft, it was announced today.

The trade adds potential firepower to the Dynamo offense, with Jaqua coming off an eight-goal season in 2006 with the Chicago Fire. Jaqua has one goal in ten games played this season with the Galaxy.

“I’m sad to see Kelly go. He’s been a big part of this group, but you have to give up something in order to get something. I like Nate’s size and power. He also has a great attitude. I look forward to him being a part of our team,” said Dynamo head coach Dominic Kinnear.

Jaqua, 25, is in his fifth MLS season. He was named to the MLS All-Star team that beat Chelsea last July at Toyota Park in Bridgeview, Illinois. Jaqua, a native of Eugene, Oregon, has also appeared in two games with the United States National Team.

Gray, on the other hand, has appeared in nine Dynamo contests this season, with one assist. Gray began his MLS career in 2002 with Chicago before being traded to the San Jose Earthquakes in 2005.

Jaqua will join the Dynamo tomorrow, and should be available to play on Thursday, July 5, against Red Bull New York (TV: ESPN2; Radio: 790 AM, 850 AM and 101.7 FM). Kickoff for this game is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. CT.