Ahead of the 2016 MLS SuperDraft in Baltimore, we take a look at the different draft day stories from current Quakes players. From getting the news in a college classroom to shaking Don Garber's hand on the podium, each story shows the beauty of how these players started their careers in MLS.
sjearthquakes.com: How were you the day before the draft? Nervous?
Fatai Alashe: I was a little bit nervous but it’s like a positive, nervous energy. You’re not worried but you are in the dark. You don’t know where you’re going to live, what city you’ll be in, who your teammates will be, who your manager will be.
SJEQ:How did you take your mind off it?
FA: My family was there so just talking to them helped. My brother tries his best to make as many jokes as possible and that keeps me level-headed and helps me to relax. It was a big moment and nice to have the family there.
SJEQ: Did you sleep the night before?
FA: On and off! It was one of those toss and turn nights. I was trying my best to sleep but my mind was going crazy thinking about where I was going to be.
SJEQ: Did you get a heads-up before they called your name?
FA: I found out when they announced it. I know a couple of people find out a minute or two before but for me it wasn’t that way. You really have no idea. I had an idea of the teams where interviews had gone well but you have no idea which direction they are going to go in when the draft starts.
SJEQ: What was your emotion when the pick was announced?
FA: I was relieved. Not to be done with it, but just to hear your name. It’s like ‘I got drafted, step one is done'. My first thought was actually ‘Oh my God, California! The weather and the lifestyle!' Since I was four I didn’t have to sit there for that long which was better. I think the longer you sit there the more nervous you get. I then had to do a speech. I didn't really prepare anything – it was off the top of my brain.
SJEQ: What was the reaction like from friends, fans and family?
FA: I got a lot of stuff on Twitter and Facebook, a lot of texts. I hadn’t turned my phone off so when I was giving the speech it was vibrating in my pocket for the whole five minutes!
SJEQ: Who did you call first?
FA: My family was there so I called one of my college coaches. One of them was there so it was the one who wasn't. They did their best to develop me and so they took some pride in it.
SJEQ: Are the players looking forward to this year’s draft?
FA: Most of the guys are excited to see who we will get. I was the rookie last year so I will be watching it. It’ll be cool to be on the other side! It’ll be nice to see another kid come in and help them. All the guys here have been helpful and do whatever they can. And when we draft a new rookie I won’t be the one getting all the trash talk so it will be great!
