In the ever-evolving world of Major League Soccer (MLS), one name that has been making waves is Ben Bender. A talented midfielder, Bender’s journey from his early days in Baltimore, Maryland, to becoming the first overall selection in the 2022 MLS SuperDraft is nothing short of inspiring. In this article, we will delve into the remarkable story of Ben Bender, tracing his steps from his humble beginnings to his current status as a rising star in MLS.
Early Life and Soccer Beginnings of Ben Bender
- Birthdate: March 7, 2001
- Birthplace: Baltimore, Maryland, United States
- Age Started Playing: 6 years old
- Youth Club: Fewster FC
- Achievements: Fewster FC won several state and regional championships during Bender’s time there.
Born on March 7, 2001, in Baltimore, Maryland, Ben Bender’s journey into the world of soccer began at a tender age of six. He honed his skills playing for Fewster FC, a one-team independent club that achieved several state and regional championships. It was here that the young talent’s passion for soccer began to flourish.
The Academy and High School Years
- Philadelphia Union Academy: 2016 – 2018
- Baltimore Armour Academy: 2018 – 2020
- Calvert Hall College High School: 2017 – 2019
High School Achievements of Ben Bender :
- An Allstate All-American
- A Baltimore Sun All-Metro selection
As he progressed, Ben Bender’s talent did not go unnoticed. He moved on to play for prestigious academies, including the Philadelphia Union and Baltimore Armour. Additionally, during his high school years at Calvert Hall College High School, he distinguished himself as an Allstate All-American and earned a spot as a Baltimore Sun All-Metro selection. These accolades served as a testament to his early promise.
College Soccer Success
Ben Bender’s rise continued when he transitioned to college soccer, representing the Maryland Terrapins from 2020 to 2021. During his time there, he appeared in a total of 29 matches and impressively scored 9 goals. It was during this period that he signed a Generation adidas contract with MLS, marking him as an expected top-five draft pick.
The MLS SuperDraft Triumph
In 2022, Ben Bender’s dreams became a reality when he was drafted by Charlotte FC as the first overall pick in the 2022 MLS SuperDraft. This significant achievement made him the third player from Maryland to achieve this feat, following in the footsteps of soccer luminaries like Maurice Edu and Leo Cullen. The anticipation and excitement surrounding his selection were palpable.
Professional Debut and Career at Charlotte FC
Bender’s professional career kicked off with a bang when he made his debut for Charlotte FC on April 17, 2022, in a match against Atlanta United FC. In this memorable game, he scored his first goal, contributing to a 3–2 win for his team. Since then, he has been a consistent presence on the pitch for Charlotte FC, amassing an impressive 41 matches played and 6 goals scored.
Current Status and Valuation of Ben Bender
As of today, Ben Bender’s market valuation stands at €2.50 million, as reported by Transfer market. His consistent performance on the field and his potential have not gone unnoticed, and he remains a player to watch in MLS.
Family Ties and Recognition
Ben Bender’s family has a soccer legacy; he’s Jacob Bender’s brother, who’s also a soccer player. In 2021, he won NPSL Young Player of the Year, highlighting his swift soccer ascent.
Conclusion
Ben Bender’s journey from Baltimore to MLS stardom is a testament to determination, talent, and hard work. His achievements on and off the field establish him as a rising soccer star, promising a bright future in Major League Soccer.
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