Photo: Joe Petro

Rookie Midfielder Aodhan Quinn might not catch the eye of your average soccer fan at first glance but after starting in Orlando's opening three games, the defensive midfielder has gained more recognition from the City faithfuls.

Originally drafted by Philadelphia Union in this year's MLS SuperDraft, Quinn landed in Orlando City's preseason camp and impressed Heath and the coaching staff enough to earn the nod to play alongside veteran holding midfielder Yordany Alvarez.

OrlandoCitySoccer.com recently caught up with the young and crafty midfielder to take a look at his soccer background, college days and more!

What was it like growing up playing soccer with your father being a professional soccer player?

Playing soccer was a big part of our family. I’m the youngest of six, and all of my brothers and sisters played. I wasn’t really pressured to play, but I always wanted to follow my brother and sisters’ footsteps so it was an easy choice.

While you were a freshman at Bradley, you started 22 games and set the school record for assists before deciding to transfer, what was that process like?

I learned a lot at Bradley and it was a great experience, but I thought soccer-wise that I should move on to somewhere else that suited my style a bit more. Akron came along and ended up being the best decision of my life.

When you arrived to Akron, current Portland Timbers Head Coach Caleb Porter was still the coach at the time. Describe your time with him.

My dad actually drafted Caleb in the MLS draft when he was the manager for the San Jose Clash so it was cool to hear some stories about him during my recruiting process. But I learned a lot from Caleb while I was there. He’s (Caleb) obviously a great coach. Everyone can see that, especially with how successful he was last year with the Timbers in his first MLS season.

How much did winning the MAC Player of the Year award your senior year mean to you?

I was very blessed to get that award. Akron was a great experience because I learned so much from both coaches. They both taught me so much about soccer and the position I play now, so it was a great learning experience being at Akron.

In just a short period of time, you’ve managed to break into the starting lineup. How would you describe your time here in Orlando so far?

So far Adrian’s put a lot of confidence in me by starting me the first three games, and I’m happy that he’s done that. I’m just trying to repay his confidence and help the team out as much as possible.

What would you like to accomplish this year and then later on in your career?

This year, hopefully win the USL PRO Championship again like the guys did last year, and then hopefully make a name for myself so I can stay here next year or move on to wherever my path may lead to continue my professional career.

Finally, for the fans who have been dying to ask, how do you pronounce your name and is there any meaning behind it?

Aiden. Both my parents are from Ireland so that’s the Irish way of spelling it. I think it means fire. Everyone always asks me how to pronounce it because they can never get it right the first time.