For three Toronto FC Academy players last Thursday served as a major milestone in their young careers.
Mark-Anthony Kaye, Mo Babouli and Luca Uccello signed USL contracts with Toronto FC II.
The Canadian trio begin their professional careers this Saturday in Charleston. That day will be another one to commemorate in their personal scrapbooks.
Last week they spoke to the media following the announcement of their first professional contracts.
INTERVIEWS: Luca Uccello | Mo Babouli | Mark-Anthony Kaye
Uccello is following in his big brother’s footsteps.
“When I was growing up my older brother was a professional soccer player in Italy,” said the 17-year-old. “He really inspired me to play the game and develop my passion to also become a pro.”
After spending four years in the Toronto FC system Uccello believes he’s ready to make the jump.
“In League 1 Ontario last year they really prepared us well,” he continued.
Uccello is finishing up Grade 12 and knows the balancing act will be difficult.
“I’m in my last semester. It’s going to be tough with all the school work but I’m planning to finish Grade 12 as well as play with the USL team.”
Kaye spent two years with the Toronto FC Academy. Along with Uccello and Babouli he was part of the team that won League 1 Ontario last season.
“I’m running high on emotions,” said Kaye. “It’s a good thing to finally break through and finally become a pro.”
The 20-year-old pointed to similar philosophies shared by TFC head coach Greg Vanney and TFC II manager Jason Bent as a big selling point going forward.
“Greg and Jason have the same goals, the same tactics, so it’s very easy to [make the] transition if we were ever to go from USL to the first team,” Kaye said.
“I’ve been here for two years now. This is just another reminder that I’m closer [to my goals] and part of the family.”
Mo Babouli lit up League 1 last season, notching 26 goals. Spend a few minutes around the attacking midfielder and it’s clear he’s not short on confidence.
“There’s different timelines for certain things I want to reach,” Babouli said. “Hopefully by the end of the year I make the biggest [goal].”
Some scouts that watched him last year believe that Babouli isn't far off from making another jump, this time to the first team.
Toronto FC II is expected to make more player announcements this week ahead of Saturday’s game in Charleston. Stay tuned to TorontoFC.ca for updates.
