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Atlanta’s mock draft selections were were:

1) Tobin Heath MF

21) Dea Cook D 

23) Kristen Olsen GK

I’m not sure I’ve seen one media outlet choose someone other than Tobin Heath as the first pick. Many prognosticators have gone on to say that it’s the “worst kept secret in the WPS draft.”  But the Atlanta Beat camp has been very tight lipped on what they plan on doing with their first draft selection.

I don’t doubt that Heath will be the first player picked.  My only question is who will own that pick.  I think it boils down to one major decision.  What is more important to the organization?  Building a foundation that will serve as the backbone for years to come or round out the team to be able to better compete from day 1.  I think there are arguments for both scenarios.

Heath is a backbone player that has a world of potential and has been displaying her skills for years.  The other option in my mind is to trade the 1^st pick in the first round for 2 first round picks.  There are several teams that have multiple picks but if I were making the decision I think the only scenario that would cause me pause is if LA Sol offered their 5^th and 9^th pick or FC Gold put up their 3^rd and 10^th pick of the first round.  You would possibly get the two strongest defenders, my perceived greatest need, in the draft. And then go on to pick up some additional support at goalkeeper and defense/midfield.

As previously posted the Beat is a very young team and I think they have at least a year’s grace period as being a new team that people won’t walk away if they don’t make it to the playoffs this year.  With that said I personally would follow the route Alondra took by selecting Heath and then using the remaining picks to shore up the defense and GK position.  We have plenty of talent up front and even though coach O’Sullivan is partial to forwards I would think we have greater needs right now. 

The only other wildcard out there is our last remaining international player spot. If the Beat has signed Maurine Dornelles Goncalves or  Therese Sjögran then I think it makes it easier to pass on Heath and lock up some defenders.  I guess we’ll find out soon enough. Friday morning at 10 AM ET Atlanta will be on the clock…or will they?  You can follow the draft live on twitter @womensprosoccer .

What would you do as GM for the day?