Kellyn Acosta will be playing for his hometown club for years to come.
The homegrown midfielder has been signed to a long-term contract, the club announced Thursday, after a breakout season, setting career-highs in games played (21), minutes played (1,606), goals (3) and assists (2).
“It means everything to me,” the Plano-native said. “I love playing here. It’s an awesome team, we’re a big family and I wouldn’t have it any other way. I love the coaching staff and I think I’ve been progressing greatly and I’m glad to be given an opportunity to continue my career here.”
Acosta missed 23 games due to injury in head coach Oscar Pareja’s first season behind the bench in 2014, but excelled in 2015 under his former Academy coach known for giving youth an opportunity. When the 20-year-old missed time for the U-20 World Cup, his absence was apparent in the midfield. He picked up two assists in his first game back and scored his first MLS goal a month later – adding two more before the end of the year.
“I’ve been blossoming under Oscar and [assistant coaches] Josema [Bazan], Drew [Keeshan], Marco [Ferruzi] and Fabian [Bazan],” he said. “Just playing in the games I’ve been more consistent, more confident and I think that’s played a big role in my game and I think Oscar likes that.”
Alongside fellow-homegrowns Victor Ulloa, Jesse Gonzalez, Moises Hernandez and Coy Craft, and the young core of the roster, Acosta hopes this group can leave their mark on the club he grew up watching and playing for.
“We’re all shooting for a championship,” Acosta said. “This club has given me everything, has believed in me from the get go. I couldn’t be more blessed to be extending my time here. I’m just so happy to be here playing [in front of] the fans. My friends and family come out to every game and I’m happy to continue my career here.”
