“Fun, interesting, and a lot of work I didn’t expect.”
Some words San Jose Earthquakes midfielder Jacob Hustedt used to describe his experience as an MLS rookie.
“Dribbler. Go straight at people. I like to make things happen.”
Short phrases Hustedt used to describe his style as a player.
The former University of Washington standout joined the Quakes after being drafted 25th overall in this winter’s MLS SuperDraft.
“I was thrilled when they drafted me,” Hustedt commented. “It has been fun ever since. I haven’t really had any bad days. I enjoy every moment being here.”
He gives a lot of credit to the UW coaching staff for getting him this far.
“The university helped me tremendously. They were there everyday. They helped me with everything. They got me so many looks than I would have gotten by myself.”
Injuries have delayed his progress on the pitch earlier this season, but he is now back and better than ever. He has made two appearances in reserve matches this season, but hopes to make his first-team debut before the end of the 2012 season and eventually work his way into the regular starting XI.
“It’s been a long road,” Hustedt remarked. “It’s the first big injury I ever had. To do that and then come into MLS, it’s been eye-opening. I feel that I’ve had to put forth a lot more work than the rest of the guys.”
The transition to the pros has been just that, a transition.
“You can’t do the things like you did in college,” Hustedt added. “It isn’t as easy to beat players. You have to pass the ball, instead of dribbling. It’s less of an individual effort, more of a team effort.”
Hustedt has been shown the way by players like veteran keeper Jon Busch and striker extraordinaire Chris Wondolowski.
“They’re great,” Hustedt continued. “They have been through it all. They are always helping us out. They take care of us and look after us.”
He was also quick to praise his coach, Frank Yallop. “Frank is one of the nicest coaches I have ever met. He is always giving us more than one opportunity.”
Being a rookie can be an arduous task, but having another rookie on the squad is huge for Hustedt, who has already formed a friendship with Quakes 1st round pick Sam Garza.
“He is actually my roommate,” Hustedt remarked. “We always joke around. We are probably the goofiest bunch of guys on the team.”
We aren’t the first to notice Hustedt’s true potential. He was one of the first Pelé Sports Professional Players in North America. The big-name brand chose Hustedt to represent them at the highest level of American soccer and he is happy to do it.
When asked about wearing the Pelé Sports Trinity, Hustedt replied, “I’ve been wearing them. I am a fan of them. I like them.”
A lot of exciting things are happening for the Sandy, Utah native. And many more are expected for a player oozing with potential. It is just a matter of getting experience and an opportunity to prove himself on America’s biggest soccer stage.
