CHESTER, Pa. (June 22, 2023) – Philadelphia Union II announced today that they have signed academy goalkeeper Andrew Rick to an MLS NEXT Pro professional contract. The 17-year-old goalkeeper will be added to Union II’s active roster on July 1, 2023, becoming the club’s second academy player to be signed to an MLS NEXT Pro professional contract.
“Andrew’s ability to make crucial saves and his composure under pressure makes him a valuable asset to our squad,” said Philadelphia Union II Head Coach, Marlon LeBlanc. “We believe that Andrew has a bright future ahead of him, and we are excited to see him continue to develop and make an impact at the professional level.”
Rick, 17, has made six appearances (six starts) for Union II this season, making 19 saves while maintaining a 1.83 GAA. Rick made his MLS NEXT Pro debut on September 11, 2022, against Orlando City B, coming on as a substitute in the 77th minute.
Rick has been a key player in the Union Academy, demonstrating his talent and leadership in various tournaments. In the U17 2022 MLS NEXT Cup, he led the team to victory, allowing just eight goals in five games while recording a 1.60 GAA during the tournament. Following the 2022 MLS NEXT Cup victory, Rick was selected for the U17 2022 MLS NEXT All-Star game in Blaine, Minnesota. Most recently, in the U17 2023 Generation adidas Cup, Rick made crucial saves from the penalty spot in extra time during the Round of 16 match to help the U17s advance to the Quarterfinals. In the championship match, he blocked the final shot from FC Dallas to secure a 1-0 shutout victory. Additionally, Rick led the U15 team to the MLS NEXT Cup Semifinals in 2021 with three crucial saves during a shootout.
Internationally, Rick received an invitation to the U17 United States Men’s National Team training camp in Palm Beach, Florida, being among 23 players called up to participate in the camp.
TRANSACTION: Philadelphia Union II sign goalkeeper Andrew Rick to an MLS NEXT Pro contract on June 22, 2023.
Name: Andrew Rick
Position: Goalkeeper
Height: 6’2”
Weight: 165
Born: January 30, 2006
Birthplace: Bethesda, Maryland
Hometown: Berwyn, Pennsylvania
Citizenship: United States
Acquired: Philadelphia Union II sign goalkeeper Andrew Rick.
