Will Cleary Drafted BY Charlotte FC
Intercontinental Football Academy of New England would like to congratulate alumni Will Cleary who was drafted in the first round of the MLS Superdraft, #22 overall by Charlotte FC.
Cleary (Windsor, CT) joins The Crown after a standout career at Stanford University where he made 79 career appearances with the Cardinal, 66 starts, tallying six goals and nine assists across four seasons.
The defender/midfielder was a key part of the Stanford defense that reached the Quarter-Final of the NCAA tournament this fall. Clearly played for IFA during the 2021/22 season.
Andy Serafino, IFA West Boys Director and Cleary’s former coach had this to say about his selection: “I couldn’t be happier for such a kind,selfless, hardworking kid. He is proof that hard work and dedication pays off.”
In addition to his time with the club he was a four-year member of the Loomis Chaffee School where he won the NEPSL in 2021. At Loomis he played under IFA West coach David Malloy.
“I coached Will Cleary for all 4 years at Loomis, and he is an incredible player and an even better human being,” said Malloy. “Will set the standard for what it means to be a true student-athlete. I couldn’t be prouder of him for taking the next step at Stanford and then proving himself once again by being selected in the first round of the MLS Draft.
This is a true testament to his dedication, work ethic, and constant desire to improve. A fantastic role model for our current IFA players—proof that the pathway is there if you’re willing to put in the work. Congratulations, Will!”
IFA New England provides extensive support for our college-bound student-athletes. Starting before they begin high school, our players have access to detailed yearly college placement seminars and individualized support, Q&A sessions with college coaches nationwide, and a wide array of guidance to help prepare them for the college recruitment process
To learn more about the IFA College program, please click here or click here to tryout for an IFA New England team.
