Photo Credit: Rafael Alvarez/Chicago Fire Soccer Club
It was only a matter of time before Indiana University’s star defender and MAC Hermann Trophy finalist Grant Lillard would sign for the Chicago Fire. That time was Wednesday morning as it was made official. Lillard is signed for the 2018 season with club options each of the next two seasons after that.
“It’s a dream come true to sign with my hometown club. After moving here in high school, this is where I set as my goal to play. It’s an unbelievable experience to have it become a reality,” said Lillard. “Even with the Academy, we always talked about what it means to represent the Chicago Fire and wear the badge. To be able to do it now at the senior level and in front of hometown fans is an unbelievable honor.”
The Hinsdale, IL native appeared and started in 86 matches in his four years at Indiana, scoring 14 goals and tallying nine assists. In his senior year, he captained the Hoosiers to the College Cup Final. He was a unanimous selection for Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year in 2017 as well as First-Team All-Big Ten. Lillard is a product of the Fire’s U-16 and U-18 Academy sides.
“Grant was always highly regarded by the club and it’s nice to see that his progression under Todd Yeagley at Indiana University has allowed this signing,” said Fire general manager Nelson Rodríguez. “He has obvious qualities and, with experience and refinement, has a chance to be a dominant player.”
This signing had been a long time coming given Lillard’s time with the Fire Academy. The next questions are whether he can add depth to a defense that sorely lacks it right now and can he jump in immediately to the lineup.
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