PHILADEPHIA – Elon University men’s soccer midfielder Daniel Lovitz became the program’s highest drafted player ever in the Major League Soccer SuperDraft on Thursday, as the senior was tabbed the 24th overall selection by Toronto FC early in the second round. Lovitz becomes the fourth player in program history to get drafted into the MLS.
Lovitz had a terrific 2013 senior campaign, helping the Phoenix tie a Division I school record with 15 wins while capturing its third straight Southern Conference tournament championship. The Phoenix also returned to the NCAA tournament for the third consecutive season and advanced to the second round of the national tournament for the first time in program history.
Lovitz was rewarded as the SoCon’s Player of the Year, becoming the third player in school history to earn the award. He was also a first-team All-SoCon selection after tallying 14 points (four goals, six assists) and a few clutch plays for the maroon and gold during the year. Lovitz tied the team lead in game-winners with three, including goals in the Phoenix's top-10 wins against ninth-ranked Wake Forest and sixth-ranked Coastal Carolina.
“Being drafted is an enormous accomplishment for anyone,” said Lovitz. “I’ve had my sights on succeeding at this level for as long as I can remember. I’m aware that being selected is the first step, and I’m looking forward to the next few weeks as I enter the preseason. Can't say how happy I am to be joining Toronto FC. I’m thrilled beyond words to have this opportunity to pursue my dream.”
The Wyndmoor, Pa., native joins Steven Kinney (2009), Gabe Latigue (2013) and Chris Thomas (2013) as Phoenix players that have been drafted into MLS. Kinney went No. 45 overall to his current club, the Chicago Fire, while Latigue and Thomas were selected by the New England Revolution in the last year’s MLS Supplemental Draft. Another former Elon alum, Clint Irwin, also currently plays in the MLS with the Colorado Rapids.
“We are all very excited for Danny getting drafted,” said Elon head coach Darren Powell. “Danny has been a fantastic student-athlete at Elon, both on and off the field. He has impressed the coaches since his arrival on day one with his ability and leadership. His determination to win has been an example for us all.
“On behalf of the staff, players and the Elon community, we wish Danny the best in his new journey. Toronto FC is an exciting club to be a part of and has a terrific coaching staff where Danny will have the opportunity to learn and develop.”