Academy prospect Chris Aquino signs with Tacoma Defiance

The 16-year-old is coming off scoring twice at MLS Next Fest.

Chris Aquino has signed a professional contract with the Tacoma Defiance, Sounder at Heart has learned. Aquino has been one of the Sounders Academy’s top prospects over the past year, which included a starring performance in their GA Cup title.

More recently, Aquino scored two goals at MLS Next Fest in Coachella, Calif, including a particularly impressive solo effort.

Aquino, 16, apparently had several other opportunities. One source indicated he had received scholarship offers from collegiate powerhouses Clemson and the University of Washington. He had also been offered a professional contract by USL Championship team New Mexico United.

Aquino has mostly played as a 10, but seems to be more of a goal-scorer than a playmaker. Despite being relatively young, he has already trained extensively with the Defiance, but has not yet played for them. But given his nose for goal, Aquino could find his way onto the field relatively quickly.

Wade Webber’s side will also likely skew a bit younger this year. The Defiance allowed many of their older players to leave after 2022. Hal Uderitz (23) and Travian Sousa (21) are the only outfield players older than 20 on the current roster. It is expected that several more teens will be added before the 2023 season.