Professional
After finishing his junior season, Stokes signed a Project-40 contract with MLS. Hailed as the second-coming of Eddie Pope, Stokes was selected 5th overall in the 2003 MLS SuperDraft by D.C. United. Although Stokes' athleticism was clear, he did not receive the opportunity to play in regular season action during his rookie year. He did appear in U.S. Open Cup games for United, friendly matches (including a win against Blackburn Rovers) and made appearances on loan with the Virginia Beach Mariners. After Ray Hudson was released, many expected Stokes to play a larger role in Peter Nowak's team. Stokes had a promising beginning to the 2005 season in which he saw action in the CONCACAF champions cup and began the MLS regular season in the starting eleven. A concussion sidelined Stokes in the early part of his campaign. After recovering from this, he had another setback after he suffered a harsh tackle resulting in cartilage damage in his left ankle. The injury required surgery and ended Stokes' '05 season. Stokes worked hard to recover earlier than expected and arrived fit to play in the '06 preseason, but 2 quadriceps tears sidelined Stokes once again until the late summer. Stokes worked his way back into the first team after reserve team appearances but did not receive much playing time in his last season with DC.
After his tenure with DC, Stokes overcame his injuries and signed with the Carolina Railhawks. He was able to return to school and continue to play as well. Stokes helped Carolina to back to back Southern Derby Cup championships and plans on graduating from UNC in the summer of 2009.
Read more about this topic: David Stokes
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