Midfielder is the second San Diego native to be signed to the city’s newest professional sports team

San Diego CA— San Diego Loyal Soccer Club (SD Loyal) announced today the signing of midfielder Eric Avila, pending league and federation approval. Avila is the third player to be signed – second player who calls San Diego home – and will join the Club for its inaugural USL Championship season in 2020. The first regular season home match is scheduled to take place in early March 2020 at Torero Stadium.
“When we had the opportunity to sign Eric, it was a no-brainier,” said Landon Donovan, EVP of Soccer Operations and First Team Manager. “He is experienced, talented and a fantastic teammate. Add to that Eric grew up here and truly demonstrates our commitment to being loyal to our soil. We are thrilled to have him join our club.”
Born and raised in San Diego, Avila’s career in soccer proved promising when he received a scholarship to play at UC Santa Barbara and, as a sophomore, scored the game-winning goal to give the Gauchos their first-ever national title. He quickly signed a Generation Adidas contract and was drafted ninetieth overall by FC Dallas in the 2008 MLS SuperDraft. In Avila’s professional career, he has played in 174 MLS games with FC Dallas, Toronto FC, Chivas USA and Orlando City SC. Most recently, Avila played for USL Championship club Birmingham Legion before receiving the life-changing call from Donovan. Avila is the Club’s second signed San Diego native with the first being Salvatore (“Sal”) Zizzo Jr.
“I’ve never felt so proud to be part a team,” said Avila. “Not only am I coming home, I’m coming home to be part of something special. I feel so connected to this city and the people here. It brings me back to where I started.”
Learn more about SD Loyal and place your deposit for Season Ticket Memberships at sdloyal.com and #SDLoyal.