USL club Union Omaha signs 17-year-old Mark Bronnik to first pro contract

PAPILLION, Neb. – Union Omaha announced that forward Mark Bronnik has signed his first professional contract with the club. Bronnik is the third academy signing for Omaha to turn pro, following Yoskar Edu Galvan in 2022 and teammate Anderson Holt last year.

“Mark’s a player I’ve known since he was seven years of age, and he was always super talented even back then,” said Omaha Head Coach Dominic Casciato. “I think this year has been about him coming in and understanding what it means to be a professional. He’s very fortunate to have some wonderful professionals in our locker room that he can learn from, and I think scoring his first goal on Saturday will be the first of many.

“He’s somebody that can give this club a lot over the next few years and someone that I think has a very high ceiling, so we’re really pleased for him signing his contract.”

Bronnik made his professional debut with Union Omaha in the Third Round of the 2024 U.S. Open Cup on April 17, when he scored the match-clinching penalty kick in a shootout to defeat USL Championship side El Paso Locomotive FC. He has made seven appearances across all competitions in 2024.

Prior to his time in Omaha, the youngster from Brooklyn came up through the New York Red Bulls Academy beginning in 2017 and spent time with the Brooklyn Italians. The latter club was where he caught Union Omaha Head Coach Dominic Casciato’s eye. Last season, Bronnik scored 29 times at U-17 level and 12 times in eight matches at the U-19 level for Barça Residency Academy USA in MLS NEXT.

“To sign my first pro deal has been a dream since I was a little kid,” said Bronnik. “I want to thank everyone who has helped me along this journey. I’m very grateful to be given this opportunity and looking forward to my professional career. Viva Búhos!”