In the News: MLS.net Recognizes Lenhart for Character On and Off the Field

MLSnet.com featured former APU star Steven Lenhart in a June 24 article, “Lenhart’s MLS Career Delays Charity Work.” His desire to reach out to those in need shines even brighter than the cameras flashing at the Home Depot Center as he celebrated his goal against the Los Angeles Galaxy, with the likes of David Beckham and Landon Donovan looking on in disappointment as their team's lead was dashed by this unknown newcomer.

Lenhart tallied his first MLS goal for the Columbus Crew in dramatic fashion on Saturday, June 21, against the star-studded Galaxy, finding his way to the net in the 88^th minute to tie the game 3-3. This clutch performance in his rookie campaign for the Crew has come as surprise to the entire MLS, garnering newfound attention from sports media to this passionate, somewhat eccentric Orange County native.

Before being selected in the fourth round of the 2008 MLS SuperDraft in January, Lenhart planned on graduating from APU in May, and moving to Zambia, Africa, to help out with his friends’ nonprofit bicycle assembly organization. Though his entry in the MLS has put his dream temporarily on hold, Lenhart hopes to someday become a permanent fixture in the organization once his soccer days are over. For now, he is kicking his way into the hearts of Columbus with a refreshing spirit of selflessness on U.S. soccer’s biggest stage.

Check out additional news coverage on Lenhart’s recent success with the Crew: 

• Crew Notebook: Unheard-of rookie makes a rapid ascent
• A Quick Study