Ray Gaddis facts for kids
Gaddis with FC Cincinnati in 2023
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| Personal information | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Full name | Raymon Gaddis | ||
| Date of birth | January 13, 1990 | ||
| Place of birth | Indianapolis, Indiana, United States | ||
| Height | 5 ft 9 in | ||
| Playing position | Defender | ||
| Youth career | |||
| North Central Panthers | |||
| Senior career* | |||
| Years | Team | Apps† | (Gls)† |
| 2010–2011 | Reading United | 9 | (1) |
| 2012–2020 | Philadelphia Union | 221 | (0) |
| 2022–2023 | FC Cincinnati | 51 | (0) |
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Raymon "Ray" Gaddis (born January 13, 1990) is an American professional soccer player. He plays as a defender, which means he helps protect his team's goal. Ray Gaddis has played for teams like the Philadelphia Union and FC Cincinnati during his career.
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Who is Ray Gaddis?
Raymon Gaddis, known as Ray, was born on January 13, 1990. He grew up in Indianapolis, Indiana. From a young age, he showed talent in soccer. He became a professional player, known for his strong defense on the field.
Ray's Early Soccer Days
Ray went to North Central High School. After high school, he played college soccer for the West Virginia Mountaineers from 2009 to 2011. He was a key player for his college team. In 2010, he played every minute of the season.
During his college years, Ray also played for Reading United. This team was connected to the Philadelphia Union. He scored one goal and made eight assists while playing for Reading.
Ray's Professional Soccer Career
Ray Gaddis was chosen by the Philadelphia Union in the 2012 MLS SuperDraft. This was a big step for him. He made his first professional game appearance on April 14, 2012.
Playing for Philadelphia Union
Ray quickly became an important player for the Union. In his first year, he played in 18 games. He was even named one of the best rookie players in the league. He also won an NAACP Image Award for Male Athlete of the Year in 2012.
By 2014, Ray was a regular starter for the team. He often played as a left-back, even though he usually played on the right side. He helped the Union reach their first U.S. Open Cup final. Ray was also featured on the FIFA 15 MLS game cover for the Philadelphia Union.
In August 2018, Ray Gaddis set a new record for the Union. He became the player with the most minutes played in the team's history. He continued to play for the Union for eight seasons.
Retirement and Return to Soccer
On March 4, 2021, Ray Gaddis announced he was retiring from soccer. He had played 227 games for the Philadelphia Union. However, he decided to return to the sport on January 5, 2022.
He signed with FC Cincinnati. This move brought him back together with his former coach, Pat Noonan, and general manager, Chris Albright. Both had been with him at the Philadelphia Union.
Ray's Life Off the Field
Ray Gaddis is a Christian. He is also very active in helping his community. He believes in giving back.
In 2013, he represented the Philadelphia Union at a special event called "Soccer for Newtown." He also participated in the White House Easter Egg Roll with other Union players.
In 2020, Ray played a big part in creating Black Players for Change. This group includes players and coaches from Major League Soccer (MLS). Their goal is to support peaceful protests and give a voice to Black communities.
Ray's Soccer Achievements
Ray Gaddis has won several awards and honors during his career.
Philadelphia Union
- Supporters' Shield: 2020
FC Cincinnati
- Supporters' Shield: 2023
Individual
- Jerry Yeagley Award: 2020
Images for kids
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Ray Gaddis playing for FC Cincinnati in 2023.
See also
In Spanish: Raymon Gaddis para niños
