Defenders Kevin Ellis, Jimmy Medranda and goalkeeper Alec Kann have signed new contracts with Sporting Kansas City, according to an announcement today.
Ellis signed a two-year contract through 2018, while Medranda signed a contract through 2019 with an option for 2020. Kann signed a contract for 2017 with options for 2018 and 2019, according to a news release from Sporting KC.
Ellis, 25, from Kansas City, Mo., became Sporting Kansas City’s second Homegrown Player in team history upon joining the club in February 2011. The versatile defender has since recorded eight goals and five assists in 82 games across all competitions, including two goals and one assist in 2016. Sporting Kansas City earned shutouts in six of Ellis’ 14 MLS appearances this season.
Medranda, 22, from Colombia, enjoyed his best year as a professional in 2016, setting MLS career-highs with 29 appearances and 22 starts (including playoffs). The dynamic defender led MLS with 3.5 tackles won per 90 minutes played and ranked second among left backs in the Audi Player Index ratings. He also provided a threat going forward, finishing fourth in MLS with 22 successful crosses from open play.
Kann’s first season with Sporting Kansas City culminated in 2016 Newcomer of the Year honors. The goalkeeper started 10 matches in all competitions, making 21 saves with two shutouts and a 4-3-3 record. He earned both clean sheets in league play, including his first career MLS win and shutout on July 31 versus Portland. Kann also played both games in Sporting KC’s U.S. Open Cup campaign and featured in a CONCACAF Champions League win against Central FC.
– Information from Sporting KC