Another New Jersey native has signed with the NYRB, John Tolkin will now begin to write his story as a pro as the team now has their 22nd Homegrown and 25th Academy player overall on the first team. The 17 year old Tolkin, a member of the Red Bulls Academy since 2015 has a total of 79 games in their regular season and 15 goals. During his time there he has had gotten time in 8 games with the U-17 YNT.
SD Denis Hamlett shared " John is regarded as a top young talent, not just in our academy, but in the US Youth National Team Pool as well. We are proud to have played a role in John's development so far, and happy to share this day with him and his family as he begins his professional career."
HC Chris Armas a long serving member of the USMNT informed " We're thrilled for John, HIs family and our club. John stood out to us in preseason last year with his fearlessness, high soccer intelligence and ability to play within our style. We saw that continue with NYRBII last season and we're excited to continue working with him as he starts his professional career."
Over this last season of 2019, John had a bakers dozen games, starting 9 for NYRB II with 807 minutes, contributing 3 assists. Tolkin had his first pro point in his first pro game, a come from behind victory at the now Philadelphia Union II, a 4-3 final on July 10.
Tolkin stated " I'm very excited to sign my first pro contract. Every academy kid dreams of this, and I'm happy it's here now. I'm ready to work hard and do everything for the club, I love the club and I can't wait to get started."