SAN DIEGO – Former Aztec defender Kyle Colonna signed with the New Mexico United of the USL, giving SDSU their fifth player from last year's roster to sign a professional contract, believed to be the most in an offseason in program history.
"We are more than thrilled to see the professional opportunities that have come our guys' way this year," Head coach Ryan Hopkins said. "We often say to our guys that the first step is to sign a pro contract or be in a professional environment. However, one of the goals in our program is to make sure you can have a professional career. That's a big difference and that comes down to your everyday approach and your growth mindset to work hard on the person and player you want to become. San Diego State also does a great job with the Aztecs Going Pro Life Skills Program to help with personal maturation and career development for life after college or in this case after hopefully a long professional soccer career."
2022 Aztecs to Sign Pro Contracts
Blake Bowen – Drafted 3rd Round (No. 59 overall) by Seattle Sounders (MLS) | Signed with Tacoma Defiance in MLS Next Pro league (Seattle Sounders affiliate)
Was an All-Pac-12 Second Team selection in 2022 after being an honorable mention pick the previous two years… Tallied 23 points in 56 appearances in his four-year Aztec career.
Jacob Castro – Signed homegrown deal with Seattle Sounders
A two-time All-Pac-12 selection and a United Soccer Coaches All-Far West Region Third team pick in 2022… Recorded 10 shutouts in his 33 starts in goal at SDSU after transferring from Washington.
Kyle Colonna – Signed free agent deal with New Mexico United (USL Championship)
A team captain and four-year starter on defense for the Aztecs, Colonna started 46 games over the last four years, including each of his last 32.
CJ Fodrey – Generation Adidas selection | Drafted No. 13 overall by Austin FC (MLS)
The highest draft pick in program history, Fodrey was named Top Drawer Soccer's National Freshman of the year after leading SDSU in points (18) and goals (7).
Elias Katsaros - Signed homegrown deal with Tacoma Defiance in MLS Next Pro league (Seattle Sounders affiliate)
Started all three years that he was at SDSU on defense… This past year scored three goals in a two-game span, including the game winner to help the Aztecs beat No. 6 Denver. This helped him win the United Soccer Coaches National Player of the Week award.