Sept. 4, 2008

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. - As the UAB men's soccer team prepares for its 2008 regular season home opener, it received some good news as former Blazer Dejan Jakovic was named to Canada's National Team roster. Jakovic joins the team for a 2010 World Cup qualifying match against Honduras on Saturday.

"This is exciting news for Dejan," UAB head coach Mike Getman said. "He is a player that is capable of making an impact on any game. He has grown and matured a lot since he has joined one of the top European clubs (Red Star Belgrade) and I think he can be a tremendous asset."

Canada is playing six matches against three teams in Stage III of the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa Qualifiers. Three of those matches are in Canada, including this Saturday's contest.

Jakovic's former team is making preparations of their own, as UAB hosts the No. 25 ranked UIC Flames in the first home game of the season. The Blazers and Flames will play on Friday night at 7 p.m. at West Campus Field.

The contest is free to UAB students who have a valid student ID. Additionally, students and UAB men's soccer season ticket holders are encouraged to come and enjoy free food and drinks at a pregame tailgate that will begin 90 minutes before the game (5:30 p.m. CT).