2016 has been a big year for Simon Dawkins.
The midfielder joined the Quakes as a designated player, got married and has now become a father.
On Monday, Oct. 4, Dawkins and his wife Melissa welcomed a new member to the family: Leonardo Jax Dawkins. He joins a gaggle of 2016 Quakes children.
Captain Chris Wondolowski, defender Andres Imperiale, midfielder Cordell Cato each welcomed the next generation to their families. Most recently on Oct. 6, forward Henok Goitom’s family grew to include Selina Malia Goitom. Midfeilder Darwin Ceren is also expecting in the birth of his daughter Alaia Ceren in the coming month.
“Being a Dad is great. It kind of changes you as a man. I think my progression over my years has been stepping up every time,” Dawkins said. “Now being a dad is something I hope matures me on the field, as well as in my personal life.”
Dawkins originally came to the Quakes for the 2011 and 2012 seasons on loan from Tottenham Hotspur. He rejoined as a designated player on Jan. 6, 2016. So far this season, Dawkins has scored five goals and notched two assists. One of those goals was the second most seismic moment in team history.
Of course, it took some time for Dawkins to get used to MLS style of play and the chemistry with the team. During the first five and a half months during the season, Dawkins scored just one goal.
“I felt like to took me a little while to get going. I think that was a bit expected coming back here, getting to know the players again and also playing again. I feel like I have hit some form now and I am hoping it can continue.”
In the past month and a half, he has scored four goals, including the game-winning goal against Vancouver on Aug, 12, in which the Quakes defeated the Canadian side on the road.
“I know we only have three more games left of the regular season, but I am hoping we can get some results there and move on,” Dawkins said. “Hopefully next season, I am progressing even more.”
