Sockers Sign College Draft Pick Juan Salazar

The San Diego Sockers - presented by Kaiser Permanente - today announced the signing of their third-round pick in the 2023 MASL College Draft, agreeing to a pro contract with forward Juan Salazar. As per MASL and club policy, the terms of the deal were not announced. 

Salazar tallied three goals in Thursday’s exhibition match against Empire at the United Soccer Coaches Convention in Anaheim, in which San Diego won 5-4.

“Juan has made an impression at training and shown the character and desire needed to become a Socker,” said director of player personnel Chiky Luna, “We welcome him to the Sockers family and look forward to what he can contribute to our club.”

A 24-year-old who was born and raised in Medellin, Colombia, Salazar moved to San Diego at age 16, enrolling at Mission Hills High School. He went on to play soccer at CSU San Marcos before transferring to Point Loma Nazarene University in 2023, where he led the Sea Lions in goals (8) and assists (8), receiving First Team All-PacWest as well as PacWest Newcomer of the Year.

“I’m excited and grateful for the San Diego Sockers organization for this amazing opportunity,” said Salazar, “Since I was four years old, playing pro soccer has been my dream. I can’t wait to join such an amazing organization.”

A left-footed striker, Salazar will be with the team when they travel to Washington state for a Saturday night match against the Tacoma Stars. 

On Sunday, the club returns home to face the defending MASL champion Chihuahua Savage, a 5:05pm kickoff at Pechanga Arena. Tickets for all Sockers matches are available at sdsockers.com or by calling (866) 799-GOAL.