NEW YORK (March 24, 2017) – The New York Cosmos announced today the signing of versatile defender, Darrius Barnes, ahead of the 2017 NASL season. As per club policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.

“Darrius is yet another great addition to our 2017 squad,” said Cosmos Head Coach and Sporting Director, Giovanni Savarese. “As we get closer to our season opener, we want to make sure we prepare our roster the best possible way and adding an experienced player like Darrius is getting us closer to where we want to be.”

Barnes, 30, spent most of his professional career in MLS. He was drafted by New England in the fourth round of the 2009 MLS SuperDraft. He featured at both, fullback and center back positions, for New England Revolution. He was the only field player in MLS to compete in every minute of the 2009 MLS season.

Barnes spent a total of eight seasons at New England, starting 111 of his 129 appearances. He logged over 10,000 minutes of play for the Revs. He also featured in a 2013 US Open Cup performance, recording an assist, and was part of the 2016 USOC winning team. The experienced defender has never received a red card.

Prior to joining New England, the Raleigh, North Carolina native played youth soccer for the Capital Area Soccer League and Triangle Futbol Club. He led TFC to the championship of the Tampa Bay Sun Bowl in December 2004. He was a member of the 2007 Carolina RailHawks U-23 squad. Barnes also participated in numerous prestigious programs, including the Super-Y Regional Olympic Development Program (2004) and the Adidas Elite Soccer Program (2003 and 2004).

A Duke University grad, Barnes made 76 appearances, including 70 starts, during his four-year collegiate career with the Blue Devils. During his senior year, he earned All-ACC honors and was named to the NSCAA All-South Region first team. He scored one goal in 18 games and contributed to 32 shutouts on defense. He was named Duke Rookie of the Year in 2005.

“I am looking forward to playing this season with the New York Cosmos,” said Barnes. “This is, without a doubt, one of the most regarded soccer clubs in the United States and one can only feel proud of defending its colors.”

The Cosmos have also announce the signing of local product, Salvatore Barone, to the 2017 roster. Barone, 21, joins the club after training with the senior team during this year’s preseason. In 2016, Barone played with the Brooklyn Italians.

The Cosmos launch the 2017 NASL Season on March 25, when they travel to Juan Ramón Loubriel Stadium to take on Puerto Rico FC. The Cosmos 2017 home opener will take place at MCU Park in Brooklyn on Saturday, April 1 at 7:00PM against Miami FC. Tickets are on sale now, for more information click here.