Morris Hills grad back in Red Bulls camp

Rafael Diaz is one of three goalkeepers who will travel to Orlando, Fla., with Red Bull New York on Tuesday. Diaz, a Morris Hills and St. John's graduate, went 1-1-2 with Red Bulls II, the Major League Soccer team's USL affiliate.

Diaz played 381 minutes in six matches, with a 1.65 goals-against average.

"People sometimes underestimate him a little bit. He's not one of the tallest 'keepers, but definitely one of the most athletic 'keepers I've ever played with," said Red Bulls defender Connor Lade, a Morristown graduate who played in front of Diaz at St. John's.

"He's just a genuine great guy, a great person to be around. It's a pleasure to play alongside him again. His athletic ability is superior, and sets him apart from other 'keepers."

The Red Bulls begin training in Orlando Tuesday morning, and will have their first scrimmage Thursday against the University of Central Florida. They return to East Hanover on Feb. 8 for a week, and then will be back in Orlando for the final two weeks of preseason.

The Red Bulls open the regular season at home against Toronto on March 6.