FORT LAUDERDALE, FL – Fort Lauderdale United FC recently announced that it has signed midfielder Taylor Smith to a professional contract. Smith, who had been playing under an academy contract, is the first player in USL Super League history to make the leap to a professional contract from an Academy contract. Furthermore, at just 17 years old, Smith holds the distinction of being the youngest player to secure a professional contract in the USL Super League.
Smith has been crucial to the top-seeded FTL UTD club, appearing in 17 of 18 matches while making 12 starts. The midfielder has started every match of the current eight-game unbeaten streak that has propelled the club into the top spot in the standings and has consistently contributed with key performances. Smith has played 1,147 minutes, and ranks 2nd on the team in tackles (36), 3rd in tackles won (18), 5th in aerial duels (20), 7th in duels (102), 8th in passes (361) and 9th in clearances (20).
“Smith’s journey from being on an academy contract to now a professional contract at just 17 is a testament to her dedication, maturity, and talent. From day one, she’s shown a level of composure and work ethic that sets her apart,” said Head Coach Tyrone Mears. “She’s embraced the challenges of the pro environment, and her growth over the past season has been outstanding. She is already making an impact, and there’s still so much more to come from her.”
Smith joined the Fort Lauderdale United FC club on an Academy contract at the beginning of the 2024/25 campaign. Academy contracts are a USL initiative designed to provide young athletes with the invaluable opportunity to experience the professional soccer environment and participate in league games while maintaining their collegiate eligibility. Smith’s exceptional on-field performance garnered the attention of Daniel Williams, an agent with Wasserman Media Group, one of the foremost sports and entertainment agencies worldwide.
Smith’s achievements exemplify Fort Lauderdale United’s unwavering dedication to nurturing young talent and supporting them in actualizing their dreams. By investing in the USL W League and supporting academy players, the club demonstrates that dedication and perseverance can forge a path for the next generation to reach professional heights. Smith’s influence, coupled with the USL W League’s implementation, underscores the club’s commitment to empowering youth in their pursuit of professional soccer aspirations, proving that hard work can indeed make dreams a reality.
