Derek Dodson Bio
Derek Dodson (born November 3, 1998) is an American professional soccer player who plays as a wing-back. After an impressive youth career at Sockers FC, he went on to play for the Georgetown Hoyas where he was notably recognized for his performance, contributing to the team’s success during his college years. Drafted by Orlando City in 2021, Dodson has also had stints with teams like Hartford Athletic and Memphis 901 before signing with D.C. United in 2024.
Early Life and Background
Derek Dodson was born in Naperville, Illinois. Growing up, he was a three-year starter and one-year captain during his five seasons with the Sockers FC academy. The club qualified for the playoffs in all five years, and Dodson was named to the 2017 USSDA Central Conference Best XI. His early exposure to soccer at Sockers FC laid a strong foundation for his future career.
Path to Soccer
Dodson played college soccer at Georgetown University, where he scored 32 goals in 72 appearances for the Georgetown Hoyas between 2017 and 2021. He appeared in all 20 games as a freshman but was limited to seven starts. Despite this, he led the Hoyas in scoring with 10 goals, including three game-winners, and was named Big East Freshman of the Year. Having secured a starting role as a sophomore, Dodson was a two-time First Team All-Big East selection in 2018 and 2019 and earned United Soccer Coaches All-America third team honors in 2019. During Georgetown’s College Cup winning season in 2019, Dodson scored a career-high 11 goals, helping the team win the Big East regular season title, the Big East tournament, and the National Championship.
Derek Dodson Career
Early Career (2018–2021)
Dodson began his professional career with North County United in 2018, where he scored two goals in six appearances. He was drafted by Orlando City in the first round (8th overall) of the 2021 MLS SuperDraft. After missing preseason camp to return to Georgetown, he signed a one-year contract with Orlando City in April 2021. However, he was loaned to Hartford Athletic shortly after, where he made his professional debut and scored two goals in his first two matches.
Breakthrough (2021–2023)
At Hartford Athletic, Dodson made a significant impact, scoring five goals in 22 appearances during the 2021 season. He then signed with Memphis 901 in February 2022, continuing to develop his skills in the USL Championship. In December 2022, Dodson moved to Charleston Battery, where he became a key figure in the team’s success, contributing three goals and five assists in 38 games during the 2023 season. His performance helped the Battery reach the USL Championship Final.
Notable Works and Milestones
Dodson’s signature work includes his pivotal role in Georgetown’s National Championship win and his contributions to Charleston Battery’s Eastern Conference title run. His career continues to evolve as he signed with D.C. United in December 2024, marking a new chapter in his professional journey.
Derek Dodson Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Derek Dodson has received various nominations, particularly during his time at Georgetown University, where he was recognized for his outstanding performance in college soccer.
Derek Dodson Awards Won
Dodson has achieved notable recognition during his college career, including being named Big East Freshman of the Year and earning multiple All-Big East selections. His contributions to the Georgetown Hoyas have been instrumental in their success, particularly during their championship-winning season.
Derek Dodson Family
Two of Derek Dodson’s older siblings also played college soccer. His brother, Ryan, played for the North Carolina Tar Heels and the Denver Pioneers, while his sister, Kristen, played for the Auburn Tigers.
Personal Life
Details about Derek Dodson’s personal life remain private, with a focus on his professional achievements and contributions to soccer. As he continues his career with D.C. United, fans and followers look forward to his future endeavors on the field.