NOTRE DAME, Ind. – Fresh off one of the greatest seasons in program history, the Notre Dame men’s soccer program saw two players selected in the 2024 MLS SuperDraft on Tuesday, Dec. 19, as Bryan Dowd and Bryce Boneau each heard their names called.
The two selections extend the total number of Notre Dame MLS picks to 44 in program history (first selection came in 1997), including 28 players that have been chosen during the draft’s opening two rounds (14 in the first round).
Dowd was taken sixth overall by his hometown club Chicago Fire followed by Boneau going 75th overall to Nashville SC in the third round.
The senior goalkeeper became Notre Dame’s highest selection since Nick Besler was taken fifth overall in the 2015 draft. The Chicago native was recognized as TopDrawerSoccer’s National Player of the Year, becoming the first keeper to earn the honor. Dowd also was named a United Soccer Coaches First Team All-American and was selected as a MAC Hermann Trophy Semifinalist.
The shot-stopper had his best season of his career in goal for the Irish, totaling 11 clean sheets while allowing just 0.699 goals per game and posting a save percentage of .824.
Boneau was selected to the TopDrawerSoccer Best XI Second Team following his fantastic 2023 campaign. The junior was the engine for the Irish attack, controlling the middle of the pitch. Boneau posted career highs in goals (4), assists (7) and points (15) over the course of the 2023 season.
Notre Dame head coach Chad Riley has now had 14 players selected in the MLS SuperDraft that played under his direction during his time as a head coach, including nine during his time at Notre Dame.
NOTRE DAME ALL-TIME MLS DRAFT SELECTIONS (SINCE 1997)
2024 SUPERDRAFT
Bryan Dowd (GK)
Chicago Fire – First Round – 6th overall selection
Bryce Boneau (M)
Nashville SC – Third Round – 75th overall selection
2022 SUPERDRAFT
Jack Lynn (F)
Orlando City SC – First Round – 18th overall selection
Mohamed Omar (M)
Colorado Rapids – First Round – 23rd overall selection
Philip Quinton (D)
Columbus Crew – First Round – 25th overall selection
2021 SUPERDRAFT
Aiden McFadden (M)
Atlanta United FC – Third Round – 59th overall selection
2020 SUPERDRAFT
Felicien Dumas (D)
New York City FC – Second Round – 48th overall selection
Duncan Turnbull (GK)
Houston Dynamo – Third Round – 70th overall selection
2019 SUPERDRAFT
Tommy McCabe (M)
FC Cincinnati – Second Round – 29th overall selection