Toronto FC announced Thursday that the club has signed midfielder Jay Chapman as a Homegrown Player.

Chapman, 21, spent the past three seasons at Michigan State University where he appeared in 63 matches, starting in 62, while scoring 12 goals and added 15 assists. He also spent the last two seasons playing under the Reds new USL PRO Assistant Coach, Stuart Neely at KW United FC. 

“We are very excited to sign Jay. It’s always rewarding to sign players that were developed from within your Academy,” said Toronto FC General Manager Tim Bezbatchenko. “Jay is a technical player and has shown an ability to be a driving force in the centre of midfield during his time at Michigan State. He fits into the direction we are heading in terms of our style of play and will be an important part of our club.”

This past season, Chapman was named as a First Team All-American, the first Spartan to achieve the First Team honours since 1970. Chapman was also a 2014 MAC Hermann Trophy semifinalist, and Big Ten Midfielder of the Year. In addition, he was a two-time All-Big Ten and NSCAA All-Region honouree during his collegiate career. 

Prior to joining Michigan State, Chapman spent two years in the Toronto FC Academy from November 2010 until departing in the Spring of 2012. Chapman was part of the Canadian national team side that earned a silver medal at the 2011 CONCACAF U-17 Championship in Jamaica. That same year, he was a member of the Canadian squad for the U-17 FIFA World Cup in Mexico.

Jay Chapman
Position: Midfielder
Height: 6’0
Weight: 157 lbs
Birthdate: January 1, 1994
Birth Place: Brampton, Ontario
Hometown: Toronto, Ontario
Nationality: Canadian
Last Club: Michigan State University
How Acquired: Signed with Toronto FC on Thursday, January 15, 2015 as a Home Grown Player
Pronunciation: “chap-man”