Philadelphia, December 19, 2025
University of Pennsylvania midfielder Patrick Cayelli was drafted by Austin FC in the 2026 MLS SuperDraft, marking a significant achievement for both him and Philadelphia’s soccer scene. The selection highlights the strength of Philadelphia’s collegiate athletics and showcases the pathway for local talent to enter professional sports. Cayelli’s successful senior year, defined by leading the Ivy League in goals and assists, exemplifies the impact of dedicated athlete development in the region. This event is a point of pride for Philadelphia, further solidifying its growing reputation in the national soccer community.
Philadelphia, PA —
Penn Star Patrick Cayelli Joins Austin FC in 2026 MLS SuperDraft, Elevating Philadelphia’s Soccer Standing
Philadelphia’s vibrant collegiate athletic scene continues to produce top-tier talent, with University of Pennsylvania midfielder Patrick Cayelli being selected by Austin FC in the third round of the 2026 Major League Soccer (MLS) SuperDraft on Thursday afternoon. This significant achievement not only marks a pivotal moment in Cayelli’s promising career but also underscores the enduring strength and developmental success of Philadelphia’s university sports programs in fostering elite athletes ready for professional challenges.
Cayelli’s selection, as the 77th overall pick, is a testament to his dedicated effort and the robust framework provided by the University of Pennsylvania’s athletics program, demonstrating how perseverance and a competitive spirit can lead to national recognition. His transition to the professional ranks highlights a pathway for local collegiate stars to contribute to the nation’s burgeoning soccer landscape, reinforcing the value of disciplined athletic and academic development.
Philadelphia’s Rising Soccer Profile on the National Stage
The drafting of Patrick Cayelli by Austin FC is a point of pride for Philadelphia, PA, and further solidifies the region’s growing influence within the national soccer community. Cayelli, a product of the University of Pennsylvania men’s soccer program, brings a dynamic presence to the professional level. His success serves as an inspiration for aspiring young athletes across the city, showcasing the tangible rewards of commitment to both athletic and academic excellence within Philadelphia’s robust educational institutions. The local impact of collegiate soccer extends beyond individual achievements, contributing to the broader Philadelphia PA sports narrative and fostering a deeper engagement with the sport.
Furthermore, the 2026 MLS SuperDraft saw other talent with Philadelphia ties gain professional opportunities. Jackson Gilman, a defender from Schwenksville, Pennsylvania, who played for the Philadelphia Union Academy from 2016 to 2022, was drafted by Toronto FC with the 36th overall pick in the second round. This dual success in the same draft underscores a consistent pipeline of talent emerging from the local youth and collegiate soccer ecosystems, demonstrating the effectiveness of both private and institutional investments in athlete development.
University of Pennsylvania’s Athletic Excellence Fuels Professional Aspirations
Patrick Cayelli’s stellar senior campaign at the University of Pennsylvania was instrumental in drawing the attention of MLS scouts. The midfielder earned unanimous First Team All-Ivy honors, a first in his collegiate career, after leading the Ivy League in several key offensive categories. Cayelli finished the season with 8 assists, 9 goals, 25 shots on goal, and a career-high 26 points. His impressive statistics included a six-point performance featuring a hat trick in Penn’s dominant 6-1 victory over William & Mary in October.
Beyond his on-field prowess, Cayelli also demonstrated remarkable dedication in the classroom, earning both Academic All-Ivy and CSC Academic All-District recognition. This commitment to well-rounded development exemplifies the core values promoted by University of Pennsylvania PA athletics, proving that academic rigor and athletic success are not mutually exclusive but rather complementary paths to personal growth and future opportunities. Cayelli concluded his Penn career starting in 43 of 60 games, accumulating 11 goals, 17 assists, and 39 points overall. The Quakers men’s soccer program also entered the 2025 season ranked first in the Ivy League preseason poll, following a season where they were regular-season champions with a perfect 7-0 record in Ivy play.
The Pathway Through Collegiate Competition
The MLS SuperDraft continues to serve as a vital mechanism for collegiate athletes to transition into professional soccer, showcasing the enduring importance of university sports programs in player development. The rigorous competition found in leagues like the Ivy League prepares athletes like Cayelli for the demands of professional play. University programs offer a structured environment where players can hone their skills, gain tactical understanding, and develop the mental fortitude necessary for a career in professional sports. This emphasis on comprehensive development, including both athletic training and academic pursuits, provides a stable foundation for young individuals embarking on competitive careers.
The draft itself, structured into three rounds, allows MLS clubs to strategically select from a pool of eligible amateur players, predominantly from NCAA university teams. This system encourages competition and provides opportunities for players who have demonstrated exceptional talent and work ethic during their collegiate careers. For players in Philadelphia college soccer, the SuperDraft represents a clear aspiration, driving them to excel both individually and as part of their team.
Cultivating Talent: Community and Private Initiative
The success of Philadelphia-area athletes like Cayelli and Gilman is not solely a product of university programs but also reflects the significant contributions of local community efforts and private initiatives. Youth soccer academies and clubs play a crucial role in identifying and nurturing talent from a young age, providing foundational training and competitive environments. The Philadelphia Union Academy, for instance, has been a key developer of local talent, with players like Jackson Gilman passing through its ranks before advancing to collegiate and now professional levels.
This ecosystem, fueled by dedicated coaches, invested parents, and community resources, exemplifies the power of self-reliance and coordinated effort in building a strong athletic foundation. The growth of soccer in the region, supported by various levels of private investment in facilities and coaching, ensures that Philadelphia continues to be a fertile ground for developing future professional players.
Austin FC’s Strategic Selections for the 2026 Season
Austin FC’s decision to draft Patrick Cayelli underscores the club’s strategic vision for the upcoming 2026 MLS season. Cayelli’s proven ability to lead in assists and points, coupled with his strong academic record, makes him a valuable addition to any professional roster. Austin FC also selected forward Stefan Dobrijevic in the second round with the 47th overall pick, indicating a clear focus on bolstering their offensive capabilities through the draft. These selections reflect a forward-thinking approach to team building, leveraging the collegiate system to bring in young, impactful talent.
As Austin FC prepares for its sixth season in Major League Soccer, integrating collegiate standouts like Cayelli is a crucial step in maintaining a competitive edge and building a sustainable future for the franchise. The competitive environment of the MLS demands continuous talent acquisition, and the SuperDraft provides an avenue for teams to identify and develop players who embody the spirit of hard work and achievement.
A Bright Future for Philadelphia Soccer
The drafting of Patrick Cayelli in the MLS SuperDraft serves as a proud moment for the University of Pennsylvania and the broader Philadelphia sports community. It highlights the strength of local athletic development and the opportunities available to dedicated student-athletes. As Cayelli embarks on his professional journey with Austin FC, his story will undoubtedly inspire the next generation of Philadelphia college soccer players to pursue their dreams with tenacity and commitment. We encourage all residents to continue supporting University of Pennsylvania PA athletics and local youth soccer programs, investing in the future of Philadelphia PA sports and the promising talent they cultivate.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- When was Patrick Cayelli drafted?
- Patrick Cayelli was drafted on Thursday afternoon during the 2026 MLS SuperDraft.
- Which MLS team drafted Patrick Cayelli?
- Austin FC drafted Patrick Cayelli.
- What round and pick number was Patrick Cayelli?
- Patrick Cayelli was drafted in the third round with the 77th overall pick.
- What university did Patrick Cayelli attend?
- Patrick Cayelli attended the University of Pennsylvania.
- What position does Patrick Cayelli play?
- Patrick Cayelli plays as a midfielder.
- What were some of Patrick Cayelli’s achievements in his senior year at Penn?
- In his senior year, Patrick Cayelli earned unanimous First Team All-Ivy, led the Ivy League in assists (8), goals (9), shots on goal (25), and points (26). He also achieved Academic All-Ivy and CSC Academic All-District honors.
- Did Austin FC draft any other players in the 2026 MLS SuperDraft?
- Yes, Austin FC also selected forward Stefan Dobrijevic in the second round with the 47th overall pick.
- Is the MLS SuperDraft for collegiate players?
- Yes, the MLS SuperDraft is an annual college draft for teams of Major League Soccer, in which MLS clubs select from a pool of eligible amateur players, usually from university teams competing in the NCAA.
2026 MLS SuperDraft – Key Details for University of Pennsylvania & Austin FC
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Player Drafted | Patrick Cayelli |
| University | University of Pennsylvania |
| Drafting Team | Austin FC |
| Draft Round | Third Round |
| Overall Pick | 77th |
| Position | Midfielder |
| Date of Draft | Thursday, December 18, 2025 |
| Cayelli’s Senior Year Goals (Ivy League Lead) | 9 |
| Cayelli’s Senior Year Assists (Ivy League Lead) | 8 |
| Cayelli’s Senior Year Points (Ivy League Lead) | 26 |
| Cayelli’s Career Penn Appearances/Starts | 60 appearances / 43 starts |
| Other Austin FC Draft Pick | Stefan Dobrijevic (Forward, 47th overall) |
| Local Philadelphia Talent Drafted | Jackson Gilman (Defender, Schwenksville, PA, Toronto FC, 36th overall) |
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Author: STAFF HERE PHILADELPHIA WRITER
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