Kevin Paredes and Griffin Yow, a pair of young soccer players originally from northern Virginia, will represent the U.S. at this summer’s Olympic Games in Paris, coach Mark Mitrović announced Monday.

The pair of 21-year-old forwards started their club careers with Loudoun United and D.C. United before signing deals to play in Europe. Paredes now plays for Wolfsburg in Germany while Yow competes with Belgian club Westerlo.

“We couldn’t be more excited to have this group of great players and great people represent us at the Olympic Games,” Mitrović said. “It’s a special moment for all of us as they have worked their entire lives to reach this stage.”

The Olympic squad features 15 players who are 23 years old or younger and three “overage” players. According to U.S. Soccer officials, 15 of its 18 Olympic athletes have already appeared in a game for the national team.

“Almost every player developed through our American soccer pathway, rising to become professionals and now they will live their dreams of competing at the Olympics,” Mitrović said. “We’re grateful to the clubs that released their players in support of our mission. Our goal is to make our country proud and we will give everything for the United States.”

The Americans’ Olympic campaign begins on July 24, two days before the opening ceremony, against host nation France. The U.S. will then face New Zealand and Guinea in group play.

• Liam Griffin can be reached at <a href="mailto:lgriffin@washingtontimes.com">lgriffin@washingtontimes.com</a>.

Kevin Paredes and Griffin Yow, a pair of young soccer players originally from northern Virginia, will represent the U.S. at this summer’s Olympic Games in Paris, coach Mark Mitrovic announced Monday.{ai:summary}Young VA soccer stars Paredes & Yow to represent US at Paris Olympics. Trained with local clubs before moving to Europe. Coach Mitrović praises their dedication. #sports