This date in MLS history: June 29

June 29, 10:07 AMMLS ExaminerCharlie Corr

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In 2008, longtime D.C. United midfielder Ben Olsen played for 15 minutes during United's 4-1 victory against the Los Angeles Galaxy at RFK Stadium. It was the only appearance for a player who has logged more than 200 Major League Soccer games.

Shortly after the June 29 game, Olsen had surgery on his left ankle. In November of 2007, Olsen had surgery on both ankles, and it was thought that he would completely miss United's 2008 campaign. Before going into surgery again, Olsen wanted to test things out, and with a big lead, he was given a chance.

Olsen's 15-minute return drew fan appraisal when he entered the match in the 75th minute. Jaime Moreno also relinquished the captain's armband for Olsen's return. But on the field, Olsen knew he was far from ready.

"I was like a wounded animal out there," he afterward.

Early on in Olsen's professional career, he broke his right ankle while on loan to Nottingham Forest in 2001, needing close to a year and a half to rehab. He obviously missed all of the 2001 MLS season and played in 10 games in 2002.

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Charlie Corr is a freelance sports writer based in Chicago. In addition to his Major League Soccer duties, he is the Chicago Sports Examiner and the creator of a Chicago-based soccer Web site, SlideTackles.net.

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