Enriquez to Leave Cal Poly Men’s Soccer for pro opportunity

Cal Poly sophomore midfielder Christian Enriquez met with his coaches and team today to officially announce his intention to leave the team and school to pursue a professional opportunity. 

Over the weekend, Enriquez posted the following to his Instagram account, thanking teammates and coaches. He has an opportunity it seems, and he’s taking it. 

 

I’m deeply saddened to say I’m leaving Cal Poly, but happy to know the past two years have been filled with growth and relationships with great people. I’ve made some brothers and have made memories I’ll cherish forever. This team is family and I’m blessed to have been part of such a great university and soccer program. When opportunities present themselves they might not come again, & I am excited for what’s next. All the best to my teammates and coaches that have supported unconditionally. #CPMS

A post shared by christian enriquez (@c.enriquez10) on Jan 4, 2018 at 8:39pm PST

That opportunity, Enriquez confirmed with Fansmanship.com, is a USL contract in Portland. The Timbers and T2 (what they call their USL team) are familiar with players from Cal Poly. Goalkeeper Wade Hamilton played there last season and is listed on their roster. 

“I’m leaving because it’s a solid opportunity for me to leave school for and it’s something I’ve been chasing since I was three,” said Enriquez. “Coach Sampson agreed it was the right time for me to leave as well.”

Christian Enriquez scores his first collegiate goal against UCSB in 2016. By Owen Main

As a freshman, Enriquez was the Big West Freshman of the Year, scoring a long goal at home against UCSB and being the centerpiece of Cal Poly’s developing attack under head coach Steve Sampson. During the offseason, Enriquez was invited to train with the U-19 National Team three times. In 2017, he picked up a an early leg injury that limited his time and effectiveness throughout the season. The USL schedule starts toward the end of March, though T2 hasn’t posted a 2018 schedule yet. 

For photos of soccer and more click here. If you just want to contribute to the cause, Venmo @Owen-Main or paypal owen@fansmanship.com.