Orange County Blue Star Feature
Thursday, March 29, 2012
IRVINE, Calif. -- The newest number CD Chivas USA fans will see in their program this season is that of former Orange County Blue Star standout Patrick McLain.
After completing a stellar 2011 PDL season with Orange County, McLain impressed Coach Robin Fraser and his staff throughout the MLS preseason. After signing with the club two weeks ago, McLain will wear the No.24 jersey for the Goats this season as he looks to make an immediate impact in his rookie year.
McLain, 23, has had much success both for the Blue Star and during his college career at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. A dynamic presence in net, McLain is following in the footsteps of many Blue Star players before him in taking his skillset to Major League Soccer, joining 2012 SuperDraft selections Luis Silva (Toronto FC) and Chandler Hoffman (Philadelphia Union) in this year's class.
Recently we interviewed McLain to find out what is next for the Eau Claire, Wisc. native.
OC: Congratulations on a great season last year and your recent signing with Chivas U.S.A. How does it feel to be in the MLS?
McLain: Thank you, it feels great! I am very excited for the season and it is a good spot to be in. I am looking forward to helping out in whatever way I can.
OC: Finishing your senior season and now going forward what do you want out of this season?
McLain: To win an MLS Championship for Chivas USA first and foremost! I want to help these guys in whatever way I can, whether it is helping the guys in net or on the field, I want to contribute in whatever way possible.
OC: Being a Blue Star Alumni and playing with them last season, how did that experience aid you in your growth as a player and eventual path to the MLS?
McLain: Playing for the Blue Star was a great experience and it gave me the playing time I needed. The coaches and team gave me great training and the playing time was key. Playing time especially for a goalie is huge, I can’t emphasize that enough.
McLain joins the likes of Robbie Rogers, Sacha Kljestan and Kei Kamara, all of whom played for the Blue Star before going on to play professionally.
In 2010 McLain posted 1.50 goals against average in 16 appearances with the Blue Star. In 2009 and 2010 for Cal Poly San Luis Obispo McLain earned consecutive All-Big West second team nods while recording a stellar five shutouts for the season. The Blue Star continues to develop elite soccer players from around the country many of them having played their college soccer in the Los Angeles area.
The 2012 season for the Orange County Blue Star looks bright and the club looks to continue the tradition of being the premier development team for young players.