Union sign GK Konopka

Chester, Pa. – The Philadelphia Union have signed goalkeeper Chris Konopka.

A native of Toms River, N.J., Konopka was originally drafted by Kansas City in the 2007 Supplemental Draft and was most recently a member of the MLS Goalkeeper Pool.

Called into service by the New York Red Bulls last season, Konopka started against the Chicago Fire on August 14 and posted two saves in a 2-2 draw.  He also spent time with the Columbus Crew, playing the second half of the Crew’s July 26 friendly against Newcastle United.  Konopka was also a member of the Crew’s roster for games against Salt Lake, Toronto, Houston and Philadelphia.

Prior to returning to MLS in 2011, Konopka spent three seasons playing in Ireland for Bohemian FC, Sporting Fingal and Waterford United.  Konopka made his debut for Bohemian on July 1, 2008 and became the first American born player to accomplish an “Irish Double” when he helped the team capture both the League of Ireland Championship and the FAI Cup.

In 2009, he moved on to Sporting Fingal, making four first team appearances and helping the club win the FAI Cup.  With the victory, Konopka accomplished yet another feat, becoming the first American player in history to win back-to-back FAI Cup titles.  In 2010, he moved on to Waterford United in the Irish First Division.

Konopka played college soccer at Providence College, finishing third all-time in most games played and leading the Friars to three straight BIG EAST Championship Semi-Finals and two straight NCAA Tournaments.  In 2006, he garnered Second Team All-BIG East honors.