Nick Zimmerman Speaks On Move To Philly, Time In New York

By: Dave Martinez | November 30th, 2009

Nothing is secure in MLS for a young and aspiring player. Just ask Nick Zimmerman, one of the few bright spots in what has been a nightmare season for the Red Bulls. Nick has found himself forced to switch sides through this seasons expansion draft, finding a new home with Petr Nowak and his Philadelphia Union.

Though the move promises to be a good opportunity for the young midfielder, with starting minutes under the watchful eye of a former USMNT assistant, it is hardly an easy pill for Red Bull fans to swallow. Zimmerman’s balance of exuberance and poise in the middle gave supporters a sense of optimism for the future. He has a quick step, a good first touch and the rare ability as a youngster to find the open seam. And as we pointed out before, his ability was good enough to surplant Dane Richards from a good portion of starting play.

Dane Richards, mind you, was protected.

Here is Nick, in his own words, talking about his move to Philly, his time in New York and much more:

DM: Were you surprised to be left unprotected and consequentially having to switch teams?

To answer your question, I realized that there was a lot of uncertainity at the end of the season, and almost everybody was unsure of what was going to happen. I was then sent to Austria to train for a few weeks, so I was very busy and active, therefore, not really thinking about whether or not i would be protected in the expansion draft.

I realize at the end of the day its a business and I am very grateful for the opportunity that I was given with the NY Red Bulls. I created a lot of great relationships within the organization and I will always keep them with me…

DM: What are your thoughts on getting drafted to the Union?

I’m a young player and realize any chance to play is good. Right now, I want to help any team that’s willing to invest in me. I was going to use the off-season to work as hard as I could on my conditioning and this doesn’t change anything. I plan to live in the gym and at the field the next two months working on my game so that I am prepared to make the most of any opportunity I get.

DM: What has been your best memory being in New York?

New York has been fantastic. The fans were very supportive even though I was a third round draft choice and rookie. The veteran players were also helpful and showed me how to be a professional player. There were a number of moments that were amazing. I played against a lot of good players – even head to head against Beckham.

DM: Any regrets?

I really feel like the team was close to winning a number of games and I was close to scoring and assisting several times I was in the game. The fans were so good that I wish I could have converted a few of my shots to goals.

DM: Any last words to the fans/organization?

I told both Richie and Jeff that I appreciated the opportunity to play for the Red Bulls. The organization took a risk on me and gave me a chance to make the team. Philadelphia wouldn’t have drafted me if the Red Bulls hadn’t played me this year. I will do everything humanly possible to make sure that I justify Red Bulls bringing me into MLS. Thank you again to the fans for always showing me support.