Terps News

Midfielder Matt Kassel, who turned down New York's developmental offer last spring to play at the University of Maryland and was being pursued by MLS again this winter, plans to return to College Park for his sophomore season, Terrapins Coach Sasho Cirovski told the Insider this morning.

Kassel, a holding midfielder, appeared in 23 of NCAA champion Maryland's 26 matches, starting 19, and was tied for second in assists with seven. He also had one goal. Kassel made his 2009 intentions known to the Maryland coaching staff last week, Cirovski said.

His return is a relief to Maryland, which has lost seven regulars this offseason. Mike Marchiano, Graham Zusi, Rich Costanzo and A.J. Delagarza are seniors while Omar Gonzalez, Jeremy Hall and Rodney Wallace decided to leave school early and sign Generation Adidas contracts with MLS.

In other Terps news.....

Maryland will open the '09 season at home against UCLA and California. The specific dates and times have not been finalized. The Bruins and Bears will also play Georgetown during their eastern trip.

The Terrapins will host a Victory Celebration banquet at Heritage Hall on campus on Jan. 31 at 1 p.m. Tickets are $100 and also include a highlight DVD and scarf, as well as a pass to the Maryland basketball game against Miami that night. The soccer team will be honored at halftime of the hoops game. To purchase banquet tickets, call 301-314-7005.