Zimmerman Signs at Hamburg

As rumored earlier, Preston Zimmerman, who had committed to play for Duke beginning with the 2006 Fall season, has signed a contract with German Bundesliga side Hamburg SV. Because of the roles governing the transfer of players under the age of 18, Zimmerman will not join his new professional side until the winter transfer window opens after his 18th birtday -- January 1, 2007. My assumption is the signing of this contract will invalidate Preston's eligibility to play at Duke in the fall. It is not clear whether or not Zimmerman will be able to play professionally in the USA before joining Hamburg next winter. Update: Yanks Abroad is quoting Hamburger SV head of scouting Bernd Legien. Legien confirmed that Zimmerman will spend as much time as possible in Hamburg in the next 12 months training and playing with HSV II. "He will be here," he stated. "He can only stay here three months with his visa. It will be a type of trial. He will train and play as much as is possible, and is allowed."

-- Jarrett @ 1/10/2006 10:09:00 PM