HANOVER, N.J. – For many kids, the chance to play their favorite sport at the professional level is just a dream. But for Derrick Etienne Jr., it felt more like destiny.
A New Jersey native of Haitian decent, the 19-year-old has enjoyed a meteoric rise through the ranks, as the world’s game continues to take him places he could have only dreamed of as a child. From academy product, to USL standout, to MLS newcomer, Etienne Jr. has always had soccer in his blood.
“My grandfather played soccer back in Haiti,” he told NewYorkRedBulls.com. “My father went to VCU and ended up playing for the Richmond Kickers and the Long Island Rough Riders.