DEKALB, Ill. – Kevin Rodriguez (Pasadena, Texas/Deer Park) of the Northern Illinois University men's soccer team was selected in the fourth round, 75th overall, by Minnesota United FC in the Major League Soccer SuperDraft on Monday afternoon. Rodriguez becomes the first player in NIU program history to be chosen in the MLS Draft.
"I was a little surprised," said Rodriguez of his selection. "I'm glad I got drafted, I have worked my whole life for this and I am glad that I finally have the opportunity to make this happen."
Rodriguez, who started all 18 matches during his senior season, scored two goals and tallied nine assists, third-most in the Mid-American Conference, in 2018 as he garnered First Team All-MAC honors and United Soccer Coaches All-North Region Third Team recognition.
"Obviously we are delighted for Kevin," said NIU head coach
Ryan Swan. "We knew that he was a special talent and we were confident that he was a pro-level player. There had been interest in him from the end of our season towards the draft, some offers had come from non-MLS teams, but we are absolutely thrilled he is getting this recognition. Minnesota United is a great organization, we are really excited for him and I think his game translates well to the professional level and he has a real chance to have an outstanding, extended professional career."
A native of Pasadena, Texas, Rodriguez played in 59 matches during his four-year career at NIU, scoring seven goals with 11 assists.
"When you look at the MAC, a number of players have been drafted, including this year, and to be amongst those teams and those players is a great accomplishment for Kevin and the program," said Swan. "I think it is now a standard for the guys that are here, it is a realization that you can move on to the professional level, to MLS, from NIU and some of our returning players will be looking at it as a pathway for them. We are excited and delighted for NIU, but primarily for Kevin right now."
Minnesota United FC begins its third season in MLS in 2019, the Loons will open the regular season on Saturday, March 2 on the road at Vancouver Whitecaps FC.
