Forward Progress

Majoring in film studies opened some unusual doors for Brad North. Because of his love for splicing video, North, a three-year starter on Northwestern’s men’s soccer team, has a chance to pursue his other passion: playing professional soccer.

During his senior season, North seemed like a long shot for the Major League Soccer draft, so he took matters into his own hands. Using his film expertise, North compiled a highlight video of his career at Northwestern, which he sent to a number of MLS franchises.

Hoping to be picked up in the later rounds, North nearly fell out of his chair when D.C. United selected him 24th overall, making him the first Northwestern player ever drafted in the 2007 MLS SuperDraft, which consists of the first four rounds.

“The announcers pretty much had nothing to say,” said the senior from Texas. “They just called me a ‘tall, lanky forward.’”

Playing professionally was not always the plan for North. After his first couple weeks of college, North felt that he would never play with the Wildcats. But the following spring he began developing his strength and athleticism.

“They moved me to forward, where I learned to play to my elements,” North said. “I became bigger and a little bit faster.”

From that point on North started nearly every game of his career, finishing with 28 goals, second most in school history.

North signed a developmental contract with D.C. United in March, giving him the opportunity to make the starting roster. While he continues to improve his soccer skills, North plans to use his video training in the team’s film department, cutting highlights, perhaps of himself.

Due to his soccer commitment, North left school early, but he looks forward to completing his degree at Northwestern when time allows.

— Ryan Morton (J08)