Hard Work Pays Off for Local Player

Blades moves closer to MLS dream

You can understand why Mark Blades might have been a little disappointed when his name wasn’t called during the 2010 MLS SuperDraft.  The young defender from Northwestern University looked to be a lock to be selected on draft day.  He had all the intangibles: passion for the game, intelligence, a strong work ethic, and a willingness to do “the dirty work.” The only knock against Blades was his lack of size; there just are not a plethora of 5’6” defenders in professional soccer. However, e makes up for his small frame with a whole lot of heart and determination.

The failure to be selected was just the first chapter in the story of the Lakewood, OH native.  Shortly after the draft, Mark received a call from one of his PDL coaches.  The coach wanted to let him know that he was going on trial with the Chicago Fire of Major League Soccer. 

This would prove to be a great opportunity for Blades, who had already proved himself in the college ranks.  Blades started as a heavily recruited player out of St. Ignatius (Cleveland, OH) High School, where Mark and his older brother Gavin led the squad to a state championship in 2005.

Gavin would move on to Yale University, while Mark made his choice: Northwestern University. Mark would have quite a career at NU, leading the Wildcats to NCAA tournament appearances all four years.  A multitude of honors would go to Mark, including the Big Ten co-Defensive Player of the Year award and two NSCAA All-America selections.  Gavin’s collegiate career would be cut short due to a devastating accident suffered in December 2005.

Mark would find himself at home in the Chicago Fire preseason camp. The first team welcomed him with open arms. Mark described it as “a dream come true,” training and playing alongside childhood idol Brian McBride.  He is enjoying every minute of his time with the Fire, a moment he has been working towards for a long time.  It seems like this is an opportunity that Blades is totally prepared for. I guess that is what happens when your dreams are within your grasp.

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