Former Elon Men’s Soccer Standout Irwin Acquired by Toronto FC

TORONTO, Canada – Former Elon University men’s soccer standout and 2015 Major League Soccer All-Star Clint Irwin ’11 was acquired by Toronto FC on Monday, Jan. 18, via a trade with Irwin’s former MLS club, the Colorado Rapids. Irwin joins Toronto in exchange for targeted allocation money (TAM), the club’s highest 2016 third round MLS SuperDraft pick and a conditional 2017 first round MLS SuperDraft pick.

Clint Irwin Interview

“Improving our (defense) has been a stated priority for our club this offseason. Bringing in Clint helps to solidify our defensive group and with Clint on board we are confident in our collection of goalkeepers across the first team and TFC2,” said Toronto FC General Manager Tim Bezbatchenko. “We are very excited about what Clint will add to our group and look forward to his quick transition into our team, which is aided by his familiarity with Drew (Moor) in Colorado.”

Irwin spent his first three seasons with the Rapids after earning a spot with the club following a preseason trial in 2013. The Charlotte, N.C., native quickly established himself as one of the young netminders of the league as he had 10 shutouts in his first season and became only the third MLS keeper to record five shutouts in his first 10 career starts. He also helped aid the Rapids to an appearance in the MLS Cup playoffs.

With Colorado, Irwin made a combined 92 appearances with a 30-39-23 record and registered 25 clean sheets across MLS league play, MLS Cup playoffs and the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. He was named an All-Star this season and was tabbed as the Rapids’ Fan Favorite in 2013.

Irwin now joins former Elon men’s soccer alum Daniel Lovitz ’13 on Toronto FC’s roster and as the only two active Phoenix players in the MLS. The pair played together as teammates at Elon in 2010.