Montreal Impact sign Rookie Blake Smith : Welcome To The Bigs

At the eve of First Kick and the 2013 MLS season, the Montreal Impact made the expected signing of midfielder Blake Smith to a MLS contract.

"We are very pleased to have come to terms with our first draft pick," said Impact sporting director Nick De Santis. "He has shown good progress throughout camp. There is a big difference between the college game and the pros, so there will be an adjustment period for him. However, he is a midfielder who can play on the wings and has qualities that could make him successful in MLS."

Blake Smith is placed as a midfielder on Montreal's depth chart, bringing youth and options to left side, behind MLS veteran Justin Mapp. Many have praised his speed and offensive positioning throughout training camp in Montreal. With not that many games against MLS-caliber teams in Orlando, it is good news that the club was satisfied of its 1st round , 8th overall draft pick.

In other news, another pick in the 2013 MLS Draft, Fernando Monge, was not offered a MLS contract with the club.

Blake Smith

Position: Midfielder
Height: 5'10
Weight: 150 lbs.
Birthdate: January 17, 1991, El Paso, Texas, US
Place of residence: Boerne, Texas, US
Former club: New Mexico (NCAA)
Acquired: January 17, 2013 (SuperDraft, 1st round, 8th overall)

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