Building the Pipeline: A Look into SMU’s MLS Pedigree

On an early January morning, Garrett McLaughlin is surrounded by some of his closest friends and family in his hometown of Oklahoma City. By 11 a.m., his house is teeming with football and basketball coaches that used to mentor McLaughlin on different recreation teams. His soccer coaches from the younger days are also there grazing at a brunch.

Philip Ponder celebrates with the SMU men's soccer team. Photo credit: Julia DepasqualeMcLaughlin, himself, is milling around the gathering. He has largely avoided talking to his family about what is about to happen for the better part of the last month. They know he is nervous about his placement in the Major League Soccer SuperDraft, the event that…