Bringing in a Talented Goalkeeper
Ally Mackay, D.C. United General Manager and Chief Soccer Officer, expressed his excitement about the acquisition. "Luis is a highly talented goalkeeper who has amassed valuable experience in the league over the past six seasons with New York City FC. His skills and presence will be a great addition to our team as we gear up for the 2025 season."Barraza's Recent Season with New York City FC
During the 2024 season, Barraza was a key player for New York City FC. He made appearances in one MLS match and two Leagues Cup matches. In these three crucial contests, he showcased his exceptional goalkeeping abilities by recording an impressive 10 saves and achieving one clean sheet during regular time. His performance was particularly notable in the 2024 Leagues Cup when New York City FC emerged victorious with a 4-3 penalty shootout win over Querétaro FC. Additionally, he also played two matches for New York City FC II in the MLS Next Pro league, where he made six saves and secured one clean sheet.In the previous 2023 season, Barraza started a career-high 24 MLS matches for New York City FC. During this time, he demonstrated his reliability by recording 62 saves and achieving four clean sheets. His consistent performances played a significant role in the team's success.Early Career and College Achievements
Barraza hails from Las Cruces, New Mexico. He began his soccer journey with the Real Salt Lake Arizona academy. Later, he spent four years playing collegiate soccer at Marquette University in the National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA) from 2015 to 2018. During this period, he achieved remarkable feats. In 2018, he was honored with the Big East Conference Goalkeeper of the Year award and was named to the conference's All-First Team. In four seasons at Marquette University, he played in 53 matches (51 starts), recording an astonishing 247 saves and 10 clean sheets. He also gained valuable experience by playing with Lane United, FC Tucson, and Chicago FC United of the USL League Two during the college off-seasons.Barraza's Professional Debut and Key Moments
The New Mexico native was selected 12th overall in the 2019 MLS SuperDraft by New York City FC. His professional debut for the club came a year later on Dec. 15, 2020, against Liga MX side Tigres UANL in the CONCACAF Champions League. The following season, on July 7, 2021, he made his MLS debut, starting in goal for New York City FC against CF Montréal. In 2021, he started five matches, recording two clean sheets and achieving three wins, which contributed to New York City's victory in the 2021 MLS Cup. In 2022, he further added to his achievements by winning the Campeones Cup for New York City FC in a 2-0 victory over Liga MX side Atlas Guadalajara. Over six seasons with New York City FC, he has appeared in 38 matches across all competitions, keeping nine clean sheets.Luis Barraza, with his impressive background and skills, is set to make a significant impact on D.C. United as they look to strengthen their goalkeeping depth and compete at a higher level in the upcoming seasons.Unraveling the Jackson County COVID Relief Fund Conundrum
County Executive's Stance
County Executive Frank White, who was present at Monday's Jackson County Legislative meeting, firmly believes in keeping the funds within the county and preventing them from returning to the federal government. He has put forward the idea of allocating the money towards infrastructure projects. However, this proposal has faced opposition from some legislators. These legislators advocate for the funds to be directed towards various non-profit agencies, emphasizing the importance of their work in serving the community.White has expressed his disappointment with the actions of some legislators, deeming it a disservice to Jackson County and its residents. He insists that the county should first come to a consensus on a plan to secure the funds and then engage in a productive debate on how to best utilize them.
Legislator's Initiatives
Legislator Manny Abarca has taken the initiative by introducing several ordinances to appropriate funds to different organizations and municipalities. This has sparked further discussions and debates within the county. The diverse viewpoints and proposed uses of the funds have added to the complexity of the situation.The ongoing debate is set to continue at a meeting on Tuesday evening, where stakeholders will have the opportunity to present their arguments and perspectives. It remains to be seen how the county will navigate this challenging situation and make a decision that benefits the entire community.
Unveiling the Future of Gaming at The Game Awards
Mecha Break: A Special Announcement
Bandai Namco's Mecha Break is set to make a significant impact. It will receive a special announcement at The Game Awards, adding to the anticipation surrounding this game. The studio is known for its exciting creations, and this is sure to be a moment to watch.
With the gaming industry constantly evolving, Mecha Break has the potential to become a game-changer. Its unique concept and potential for innovation make it a game that gamers are eagerly awaiting.
Upcoming 2025 Games: A Glimpse into the Future
The February 2025 lineup of games is set to take center stage at The Game Awards. Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2, Civilization 7, Assassin's Creed Shadows, Avowed, Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii, and Monster Hunter Wilds are all expected to make an appearance. These games, with their approaching release dates, will likely get final trailers to remind gamers of their existence.
The gaming community is buzzing with excitement about these upcoming titles. Each game brings something unique to the table, and the Game Awards will be the perfect stage to showcase them.
Max Payne 1 and 2 Remakes: A Remastered Classic
Remedy Entertainment has had a remarkable year, and the Max Payne 1 and 2 remakes are a significant part of it. After announcing the project in 2022 in partnership with Rockstar Games, there has been some silence. But a Max Payne remake trailer at The Game Awards would be a major event.
James McCaffrey's voice as Max Payne added a special touch to the original games. His passing in 2023 makes the potential remake even more emotional. It would be a fitting tribute to his legacy.
Dawnwalker: A Medieval RPG in the Making
Developed by Rebel Wolves and set in medieval Europe, Dawnwalker was stealthily announced in January 2024. Bandai Namco's agreement to publish the game in October has added to its buzz. Built with Unreal Engine 5, this AAA action-RPG is expected to be the first in a series.
The "Dawnwalker Saga" holds great promise, and The Game Awards could be the perfect opportunity to reveal more about this exciting project. Gamers are eager to learn more about its story and gameplay.
Project 007: The Bond Game in Development
It's been four years since IO Entertainment announced its standalone 007 game in partnership with MGM. In October, CEO Hakan Abrak spoke briefly about the game's development with IGN, giving us a glimmer of hope. Developers don't typically talk publicly about in-development projects unless they have something to share.
The potential for a Bond game at The Game Awards is high. With the franchise's popularity, this could be a game that steals the show.
Everwild: A Rebooted Xbox Exclusive
Rare's Xbox exclusive Everwild was once a highly anticipated game. After a reboot in 2021 and a projected 2024 release date, it went missing in action. But Phil Spencer's visit to the studio in October confirmed that the game actually exists.
The Game Awards could be the perfect place for Everwild to make a comeback. After years of anticipation, gamers are eager to see what the rebooted game has in store.