ATL UTD 2 today announced the signing of midfielder Kevin Barajas. An Atlanta native and University of Kentucky standout, Barajas was discovered after participating in the American Family Insurance Dream Tryouts held in Atlanta on December 16, 2017.
“We’re pleased to bring Kevin on board following the American Family Insurance Dream Tryouts,” head coach Scott Donnelly said. “Kevin is a player I’ve known for quite some time and have followed his trajectory. As a local talent, it is great to see him come back to his roots to be part of our inaugural roster, as it speaks to the positive impact Atlanta United has made on the local soccer community.”
Barajas, 21, was hand-selected out of hundreds who attended the American Family Insurance Dream Tryouts to earn a professional contract with ATL UTD 2. With technical staff members from both the Atlanta United Academy and the First Team on hand to scout the tryout, Barajas earned his place with the organization’s USL expansion team that begins its inaugural season in March.
Originally from Atlanta, Ga. Barajas began his youth career under current Atlanta United Academy Director Tony Annan with Georgia United from 2012-14. He then attended the University of Kentucky, where he made 69 appearances during his four years in Lexington while scoring four goals and dishing out three assists. Barajas earned All-Conference USA Team honors while helping the Wildcats to the NCAA Tournament in three of his four seasons.
The American Family Insurance Dream Tryouts were created to give aspiring athletes the opportunity to try out for Atlanta United. The club held a total of five tryouts over the past two years in various cities in the Southeast.
“At American Family we believe in the power of dreams and support those like Kevin who work hard to achieve them,” said Mark Rothwell, brand and consumer marketing associate vice president. “We’re pleased our partnership with Atlanta United and the American Family Insurance Dream Tryouts gives us the opportunity to champion the dreams of many deserving players. We look forward to seeing the positive impact Kevin will have on both the team and the Atlanta community.”
ATL UTD 2’s season begins on March 24 against New York Red Bulls II at Coolray Field for the club’s inaugural match. For the full schedule, and details on ticket information for ATL UTD 2, please visit www.atlutd/2.
PLAYER PROFILE
Name: Kevin Barajas
Position: Midfielder
Birthdate: Feb. 18, 1996 (age: 21)
Birthplace: Atlanta, Georgia
Height: 5-10
Citizenship: United States
College: University of Kentucky
Transaction: Signed with ATL UTD 2 on Feb. 12, 2018.
