SAN DIEGO – Former Aztec CJ Fodrey was selected by Austin FC with the 13th pick overall of the MLS SuperDraft Wednesday. Fodrey's selection is the highest ever by an Aztec and he is the first to be selected in the first round.
"We are thrilled to see CJ earn a Generation Adidas contract and get selected by Austin FC," Head coach Ryan Hopkins said. "His pace, power and relentless attitude will suit him well as he makes the jump to the pro game. As a local San Diego kid, he wanted to stay home and elevate this program and we are so happy he trusted us with his development. He left a huge mark on our program in his one season with Pac-12 Freshman of the Year honors and we can't wait to follow his career."
Fodrey (San Diego/Coronado HS) was the 2022 Pac-12 Freshman of the Year to become just the second Aztec to win a Pac-12 postseason award. His team-high 18 points was the most by a SDSU freshman since at least 2000. He finished the year with seven goals, two of which were game-winners, and four assists.
Fodrey was also a second team pick to the United Soccer Coaches Far West Region Team.
As a Generation adidas selection, Fodrey's salary will not be charged against Austin FC's annual salary budget.
Fodrey is the eighth Aztec to be selected in the MLS SuperDraft, while another six have been chosen in the MLS Supplemental Draft. The previous highest selection by an Aztec was Steven Beitashour taken 30th overall in 2010.
Additionally, Fodrey was named Top Drawer Soccer's Freshman of the Year today.
Later on during the MLS draft, defender Blake Bowen was drafted 59th overall by the Seattle Sounders.
Bowen, (San Clemente, Calif./San Clemente HS) earned United Soccer Coaches All-Far West Region Third Team this past season, as well as All-Pac-12 Second Team in 2022. He was also an All-Pac-12 Honorable Mention (2020 & 2021) during his time as an Aztec. He appeared in 47 career games for San Diego State, scoring nine goals, three of them were game winning goals, and added five assists during his time on The Mesa.
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