COLUMBUS - Columbus Crew 2 have signed Crew Academy midfielder Tristan Brown to an MLS NEXT Pro contract for the remainder of the 2024 season.
“We’re fortunate to have Tristan in our Club moving forward,” said Director of Player Development Dan Lock. “Tristan’s impressive performances this season with Crew 2 and in the MLS NEXT All-Star Game are a direct result of his commitment and dedication. It’s been a pleasure watching him develop over the years, and we look forward to watching him continue to make an impact at the MLS NEXT Pro level.”
"Tristan signing his first MLS NEXT Pro contract is a testament to his growth since he entered the Academy, as well as his tireless work in training to improve,” said Crew 2 Head Coach Kelvin Jones. “His focus and maturity at such a young age is special, and he consistently exceeds expectations. It’s a joy to be around Tristan every day, and I’m excited to help him take his game to new heights.”
“I’m honored to earn my first contract with Crew 2 and keep growing as a player,” said Brown. “Playing in front of the home crowd in Columbus at the MLS NEXT All-Star game this year was an incredible opportunity, and I’m excited to have the opportunity to continue to represent a legendary franchise with world-class supporters. I’m grateful for all the coaches and staff who have played a role in my development and will help me write my next chapter with the Club.”
Brown, who joined the Crew Academy in August 2022 at the Under-15 level, signed with Crew 2 at the beginning of the 2024 season on an amateur agreement. Prior to joining the Crew Academy, he developed with Michigan Wolves, a Crew Network club. The 16-year-old midfielder was recognized as an MLS NEXT All-Star earlier this season alongside teammate Chase Adams, who recently signed his first MLS NEXT Pro contract.
Through 15 games this season, Brown has started 12 matches and played 1,003 minutes. He recorded his first career assist in a 2-1 win against New England Revolution II on August 18. In 2023, Brown contributed in two games, including his first professional start (71 minutes) during a 4-0 win in the Heck is Plausible match against FC Cincinnati 2 on Sept. 17.
The Novi, Mich. native has participated in two U-17 USYNT camps over the past year – October 2023 in Portland, Ore. and March 2024 in West Palm Beach, Florida.
Brown joins Chase Adams, Brent Adu-Gyamfi, Anthony Alaouieh, Giorgio De Libera, Stanislav Lapkes, Owen Presthus and Christopher Rogers as the eight Crew Academy players on the current roster who signed professional contracts with Crew 2.
Crew 2 returns to action against Philadelphia Union II on Monday, Aug. 26 at Subaru Park in Chester, PA [6 p.m. ET / Apple TV – MLS Season Pass].
TRANSACTION: Columbus Crew 2 sign midfielder Tristan Brown to an MLS NEXT Pro contract on Aug. 23, 2024.
Name: Tristan Brown
Position: Midfielder
Date of Birth: Oct. 17, 2007
Hometown: Novi, MI
Citizenship: United States
