Aaron Long Bio
Aaron Ray Long (born October 12, 1992) is an American professional soccer player who plays as a center-back for Major League Soccer club Los Angeles FC. Born in Oak Hills, California, Long played four seasons of college soccer for the University of California, Riverside before being drafted in the second round of the 2014 MLS SuperDraft by the Portland Timbers. His professional career has seen him play for various clubs including Seattle Sounders FC and New York Red Bulls, achieving significant recognition in the league for his performances.
Early Life and Background
Aaron Long graduated from Serrano High School, where he lettered in both football and soccer. He played four years of college soccer at the University of California, Riverside between 2010 and 2013, recording 13 goals and 5 assists during those years. While at college, Long also appeared for USL PDL club FC Tucson during their 2012 and 2013 seasons, gaining valuable experience before entering the professional ranks.
Path to Soccer
Long was drafted by the Portland Timbers in the second round (36th overall) of the 2014 MLS SuperDraft. After signing with Portland, he was loaned to their USL Pro affiliate Sacramento Republic, where he made his debut on March 29, 2014, in a 1–1 draw against LA Galaxy II. Following a brief loan to Orange County Blues, Long was released by the Timbers in July 2014, which led him to join Seattle Sounders FC.
Aaron Long Career
Early Career (2012-2014)
Long began his professional career with FC Tucson in 2012, where he played until 2013. He then joined Seattle Sounders FC in 2014 but did not make an appearance for the first team. Instead, he signed with Seattle Sounders FC 2, where he became a regular starter, playing primarily as a midfielder before being converted to center-back. His performances helped him establish himself in the league.
Breakthrough (2016-2018)
Long signed with New York Red Bulls II in 2016, where he had a breakout season, helping the team win the USL championship and earning the USL Defender of the Year award. He made his debut for the New York Red Bulls’ first team on August 16, 2016, in a CONCACAF Champions League match. In 2018, Long had a career-defining season, earning a spot on the MLS All-Star Team and winning the MLS Defender of the Year award while helping the Red Bulls secure the Supporters’ Shield.
Notable Works and Milestones
Long’s signature work includes his outstanding defensive performances for the New York Red Bulls, where he was instrumental in their success during the 2018 season. His achievements include being named the MLS Defender of the Year and earning his first international cap for the United States.
Aaron Long Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Aaron Long has received several nominations, particularly for his standout performances in Major League Soccer.
Aaron Long Awards Won
Aaron Long has won multiple awards, including the USL Defender of the Year and the MLS Defender of the Year, showcasing his skills and contributions to his teams.
Aaron Long Family
There is limited publicly available information regarding Aaron Long’s family background, including details about his parents or siblings.
Personal Life
Aaron Long’s personal life is kept relatively private, with no publicly available information regarding his marital status or children.
