San Jose Earthquakes select Kevin Partida with final pick in 2018 MLS SuperDraft

The San Jose Earthquakes completed their 2018 MLS SuperDraft picks Sunday via conference call with the selection of UNLV midfielder Kevin Partida. He joins fellow Runnin’ Rebels teammate Danny Musovski, along with Paul Marie and Mohamed Thiaw, as the four members of the Quakes draft class of 2018.

“Kevin is a midfielder that got our attention last season, in particular head coach Ian Russell of our USL affiliate in Reno,” said Earthquakes general manager Jesse Fioranelli in a club statement. “As a player originally from just outside Reno, he comes highly recommended by UNLV head coach Rich Ryerson. Kevin impressed us with his technical ability and quality decision making under pressure. We’re excited to have him join our organization.”

The 22-year-old Partida is a native of Sparks, Nevada, and he is familiar to the Earthquakes technical staff following his year with the Burlingame Dragons, the Quakes former USL-PDL affiliate, in 2016. In four seasons with UNLV, Partida amassed 6 goals and 6 assists as a midfielder. He suffered a major knee injury ahead of the 2016 season, but came back to start 19 games his season year.

“Can’t thank the San Jose Earthquakes organization enough,” said Partida in a post on his Instagram account. “Been following this team for years now being the closest team to my hometown before Reno 1868 FC began and it’s an honor to have been drafted by them. Pumped for this opportunity.”

Partida, like most late round MLS SuperDraft selections in the past, is a long-shot to make the Earthquakes gameday roster, but he could sign a contract with San Jose and be loaned to Reno, the Quakes USL affiliate. If he does not earn an MLS contract, he would be eligible to sign directly with Reno, his hometown club.

Kevin Partida
Position: Midfielder
Height: 5-8
Weight: N/A
Born: March 10, 1995
Hometown: Sparks, Nev.
Last Club: University of Nevada, Las Vegas (NCAA)
College: University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Roster Designation: Domestic