Although it's been an offseason of change for the Union, one returning player will be around for the long haul.
On Wednesday, the Union announced that forward C.J. Sapong has signed a three-year extension, keeping him in Union blue and gold through the 2019 season.
"We value the energy C.J. brings every day and we're very happy to have him committed to our club for the long term," Union sporting director Earnie Stewart said.
The 27-year-old Sapong is one of the Union's few success stories. He was acquired in late 2014 from Sporting Kansas City for the Union's first-round selection in the 2015 MLS SuperDraft. The move paid off for the club - Sapong had nine goals and four assists in 29 games, and is poised to lead the team again as primary forward for 2016.
"His athleticism and natural finishing abilities make him a true difference-maker," Stewart said. "We have the utmost confidence he will settle in as a leader for the team, ultimately becoming a building block for our club for years to come."
Sapong did run into trouble in May 2015, when he was arrested for driving under the influence and reckless driving. He missed three games after being admitted to the league-mandated MLS Substance Abuse and Behavioral Health Program. Sapong had one goal and one assist in the six games prior to the incident, but returned with a vengeance and newfound leadership. He scored eight goals, to go along with three assists in the next 22 games, helping him earn this current extension.
