Per Sounders U23 Media release, local U23 player Oscar Jimenez has been signed by the Tulsa Roughnecks in the USL, and will join them for their inaugural season in the league.
The Roughnecks are one of the few unaffiliated USL clubs so the road to MLS might not be as clear for the 25-year old midfielder, but the dream is still clearly in sight.
Here’s their release:
Oscar Jimenez, who has spent the last two seasons training and playing with the Sounders U23 team, has signed a contract for the Tulsa Roughnecks in USL.
Jimenez was a standout player at Mt. Vernon high school before becoming the all time assist leader at Western Washington University. He would go on to record 69 points (6th all time) and 17 goals (10th all time) as a GNAC All Star.
He played for the Bellingham Hammers in 2013 and was awarded the team MVP for that season while training with the Sounders U23 team.
In 2014, Jimenez made his game debut for the Sounders U23 at Lane United to open the 2014 campaign and was a contributor for the team through this past season.
“Oscar represents a driven, young player that is willing to do whatever it takes to get to the next level. His commitment to training and passion to get better each day is what has allowed him this opportunity with Tulsa. We wish him the very best and will continue our goal of sending as many players to the next level as possible,” added Darren Sawatzky, Sounders U23 head coach.
To date, the Sounders U23 team has helped over 25 players get drafted or sign professional contracts since the 2012 national semi final team.
“My entire goal when finishing at Western was to become a professional soccer player. I had to sacrifice and drive from Bellingham to Tacoma after eight hour work days to train with Darren, Jason, Ale, and the staff. Now that I have signed a pro contract, it was definitely worth it. I have nothing but respect and gratitude for everyone that was a part of the Sounders U23. I can’t wait to get started!” explained Jimenez.
Sounders U23 tryouts are posted at www.soundersu23.com for March 21st and 22nd.
Transaction: Tulsa Roughnecks (USL) – Tulsa Roughnecks sign Oscar Jimenez (M)
