Philly Leader

Sal Olivas, an 18-year-old soccer player, has signed a professional contract with the Philadelphia Union's first team. This milestone makes him the club's 29th Homegrown player. Reflecting on his journey, Olivas shared, “Becoming a professional soccer player was a dream of mine since I was little, little, little. Maybe, like seven or eight years old. So actually saying that I'm a professional soccer player? It's crazy.”

Olivas began his path to professional soccer at the age of 16 when he joined Philadelphia Union’s Pathway to the Pros program. Originally from El Paso, Texas, he moved across the country to pursue his goal. He recalled practicing alone and playing high school soccer before being scouted by Philadelphia Union Academy.

“Believe it or not, I didn’t play on any soccer team at the time. I was just practicing by myself and playing high school soccer. It was a pretty tough moment in my life because I really didn't know what the future held for me,” Olivas said.

His transition to Philadelphia marked a significant change in his life as he left his family behind in Texas to live in the academy residency house. “It was a big jump. Nerve wracking... but I knew that if I went home, there were no opportunities for me to really pursue my dream,” he explained.

During his time with the Union Academy, Olivas contributed significantly to their successes. He played a crucial role in winning the 2023 Generations adidas Cup and helped Union II reach their first MLS NEXT Pro Cup appearance in 2024.

Olivas cherishes scoring his first professional goal against New England Revolution II with his father present at Subaru Park. “When I scored my first professional goal, my dad was there to watch it... I pointed to my dad basically saying, ‘That one was for you,’” he recounted.

In Philadelphia, Olivas found a supportive community within the club facilities where he's affectionately known as 'Pops.' “They made me feel so welcome here... The school and the coaches made me feel at home,” he said.

Looking ahead to the upcoming MLS Next Pro season after traveling with the squad for friendlies in Spain, Olivas encourages fans’ support: “Hopefully I bring a lot to the table – that would be great... My message to fans is to come out to the games.”