Shane O’Neill, a 2012 Fairview graduate, has signed with the Colorado Rapids out of their youth academy, passing on a scholarship offer from the University of Virginia.
O’Neill, 18, has been training with the Rapids since the spring. He’s just the second local to sign out of the Rapids Academy, following Rangeview’s .
O’Neill had been committed to Virginia for soccer, but ultimately decided to turn pro — with a three-year deal, .
“I’m very excited,” he . “I’m following my dream. I had the opportunity to go to college but it’s always been a dream to become a pro soccer player, so when I had the chance I had to take it and I’m very excited about the opportunity.”
The forward and midfielder was part of the this fall, and was also named the state’s player of the year by Gatorade. He led Fairview to a 12-3-2 record last season, scoring 19 goals.
The 6-foot-2, 190-pounder has 10 goals for the Rapids’ under-18 team in 15 games this season. He’s also seen action with the Rapids’ reserve team.
A multisport star, O’Neill was a second-team all-5A pick in basketball this fall.
O’Neill was born in Ireland, but moved to the U.S. His father, Colm, owns the popular Irish pub Conor O’Neill’s in Boulder. His brother, Darragh, is CU’s starting punter — .
Ryan Casey: 303-954-1983 or rcasey@denverpost.com
