Garrett McLaughlin Bio
Garrett McLaughlin, born on November 10, 1997, is an American soccer player who plays as a forward. He currently represents USL League One side Sarasota Paradise, where he wears the number 19 jersey. Standing at 6 feet 0 inches tall, McLaughlin has built his career through the United Soccer League system, showcasing consistent goal-scoring ability at multiple clubs. His journey from Oklahoma youth soccer to the professional ranks reflects steady development and a reputation as a reliable finisher.
McLaughlin first gained national attention during his four-year college career at Southern Methodist University, where he set scoring records and earned multiple conference honors. He later entered Major League Soccer through the MLS SuperDraft before settling into a productive path across USL League One and the USL Championship. Across his professional tenure, he has been recognized as a Player of the Week multiple times and has finished as a team-leading scorer.
Early Life and Background
Garrett McLaughlin was born on November 10, 1997, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. He grew up in the Oklahoma City area and attended Heritage Hall, where he played high school soccer and developed into one of the state’s most decorated young players. His early football environment in Oklahoma helped shape his understanding of the game and prepared him for the demands of higher-level competition.
At Heritage Hall, McLaughlin earned statewide recognition as a two-time Oklahoma Gatorade Player of the Year. He also led his high school team to three state championships, establishing himself as a proven winner in competitive settings. These formative experiences gave him the confidence and competitive edge needed to advance to the collegiate level. His strong performances in youth and high school soccer drew the attention of college recruiters across the country.
Path to Soccer
McLaughlin committed to Southern Methodist University, where he played college soccer from 2016 to 2019. During his freshman year, he was named the 2016 American Athletic Conference Freshman of the Year, an early indicator of his scoring instincts. Over four seasons with the Mustangs, he made 72 appearances, scored 36 goals, and recorded 13 assists, placing him among the most productive forwards in program history.
His college honors included first-team All-AAC selections in 2017 and 2019, a second-team All-AAC nod in 2018, and a United Soccer Coaches third-team All-American selection in 2017. While completing his collegiate career, McLaughlin also gained senior-level experience with USL PDL side OKC Energy U23 between 2016 and 2018. These appearances allowed him to test his skills against professional competition while still developing at the college level.
Garrett McLaughlin Career
Early Career (2016–2019)
McLaughlin’s early senior experience came with OKC Energy U23, a developmental team in the USL Premier Development League. Playing for his hometown club allowed him to remain connected to the Oklahoma soccer community while sharpening his skills. His performances with OKC Energy U23 demonstrated his readiness to compete at higher levels and contributed to his growing reputation as a promising forward.
During this same period, McLaughlin excelled at Southern Methodist University, where he set scoring records and earned multiple All-Conference selections. His combination of college and club experience positioned him as a strong candidate for the professional ranks. By the end of his senior season in 2019, he had become one of the most accomplished Mustangs forwards in recent memory.
MLS SuperDraft and RGV FC (2020)
On January 9, 2020, McLaughlin was selected eighth overall in the 2020 MLS SuperDraft by Houston Dynamo. The selection marked a significant milestone, reflecting the confidence that a Major League Soccer organization placed in his abilities. Shortly after the draft, he signed with Houston’s USL Championship affiliate, Rio Grande Valley FC, on February 27, 2020.
McLaughlin made his professional debut on March 8, 2020, starting for Rio Grande Valley FC in a 5–1 loss to LA Galaxy II. Although the result was disappointing, the appearance confirmed his transition from the college game to the professional ranks. The 2020 season was shortened by external circumstances, limiting his opportunities to build momentum with the Toros.
Toronto FC II Breakthrough (2021)
On April 22, 2021, McLaughlin signed with USL League One side Toronto FC II, a move that would become the turning point of his career. He announced his arrival in spectacular fashion, scoring two goals on his debut against North Texas SC on May 22, 2021. His immediate impact demonstrated his natural finishing instincts and ability to perform in critical moments.
McLaughlin’s standout moment came on July 18, 2021, when he scored a hat trick in a 4–2 victory over North Carolina FC, including a memorable bicycle kick on his second goal. He finished the 2021 season as Toronto FC II’s leading goal scorer with eight goals and was named USL League One Player of the Week twice. Following the season, he went on trial with Major League Soccer side Real Salt Lake, signaling his growing profile within the American soccer landscape.
North Carolina FC Era (2022–2024)
McLaughlin joined North Carolina FC on February 11, 2022, continuing his career in USL League One. He made an immediate impression, scoring a brace against Richmond Kickers on May 28, 2022, which earned him the USL League One Player of the Week award for Week 9 of the 2022 season. His consistent scoring presence made him a central figure in North Carolina’s attacking lineup.
Across three seasons with North Carolina FC, McLaughlin became a dependable goal-scoring option and a key contributor to the team’s offensive structure. After making ten appearances during the 2024 season, he was transferred to Forward Madison on June 25, 2024. In interviews, McLaughlin confirmed that his contract with Forward Madison was set to run through the 2025 season.
Sarasota Paradise Era (2026–Present)
In 2026, McLaughlin joined Sarasota Paradise, continuing his career in USL League One. His move to the Florida-based club represented a fresh opportunity to contribute to a growing program. Wearing the number 19 jersey, he has continued to bring experience and finishing ability to his new team. Sarasota Paradise benefits from his track record of scoring in multiple USL League One campaigns.
Driving Style and Strengths
McLaughlin is recognized for his clinical finishing, intelligent movement off the ball, and ability to score in a variety of ways, including acrobatic strikes such as bicycle kicks. His comfort in front of goal allows him to capitalize on limited chances, while his consistent work rate helps link play with teammates. Across multiple clubs, he has demonstrated reliability as a target forward who can produce in high-pressure moments.
Notable Events and Milestones
Among the defining moments of McLaughlin’s career are his eighth overall selection in the 2020 MLS SuperDraft and his hat trick against North Carolina FC in 2021, which featured a standout bicycle kick. He has also earned multiple USL League One Player of the Week honors and finished as a leading scorer for Toronto FC II. These milestones underscore his reputation as a consistent and impactful forward in the American lower-division soccer landscape.
Garrett McLaughlin Career Wins
Garrett McLaughlin has compiled a record of goal-scoring achievements across college soccer, the USL PDL, the USL Championship, and USL League One. While his career has been defined more by individual scoring milestones than by championship trophies, his consistent contributions have made him a valuable attacking player at every stop. His selection in the MLS SuperDraft and his multiple Player of the Week awards highlight his standing within the professional game.
USL League One Highlights
McLaughlin’s most prolific stretch came during the 2021 season with Toronto FC II, when he scored eight goals to finish as the club’s leading scorer. His performances included a hat trick against North Carolina FC and a two-goal debut against North Texas SC. He also earned Player of the Week honors twice during the campaign and added further recognition with North Carolina FC in 2022.
Other Wins and Performances
Beyond his professional achievements, McLaughlin’s college career at Southern Methodist University stands out, with 36 goals and 13 assists across 72 appearances for the Mustangs. He also led Heritage Hall to three state championships and was twice named Oklahoma Gatorade Player of the Year during his high school career. These accomplishments established the foundation for his professional trajectory.
Garrett McLaughlin Family
Family Background and Soccer Lineage
Garrett McLaughlin was raised in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, where he developed his early soccer skills within a supportive community environment. His background in Oklahoma youth soccer, including his time with Oklahoma FC 97, helped shape his technical foundation. He attended Heritage Hall, where his success contributed to the school’s strong reputation in high school soccer.
Personal Life
McLaughlin’s professional journey has taken him across multiple cities in the United States and Canada, reflecting the demands of a lower-division professional soccer career. Public information regarding his family and personal relationships remains limited, and he is primarily known for his contributions on the field. His focus on soccer has defined much of his public profile throughout his career.
2025 Season Performance
McLaughlin spent the 2025 season with Forward Madison in USL League One, having been transferred to the club in June 2024. His contract was set to run through the 2025 season, providing him stability to contribute consistently for the Wisconsin-based team. Throughout the campaign, he continued to serve as an experienced attacking option within the Madison roster.
Looking ahead, McLaughlin’s move to Sarasota Paradise in 2026 marks the beginning of a new chapter in his career. The transition offers him an opportunity to play a leading role with a club that has been building momentum in USL League One. His track record of scoring and his veteran presence are expected to be valuable assets for Sarasota Paradise as they continue their competitive ambitions.