Minnesota Adds Goalkeeper Depth With Aaron Perez

Minnesota United has added to its goalkeeping depth with the signing of Aaron Perez. The California native has spent the past three seasons with the Orange County Blues in the United Soccer League (USL). 

“It feels amazing, it already feels like home,” Perez said. “The atmosphere at training, the guys, the coaches I just felt like this is where I should be, not only as a player but as a person. Everyone gets along so well and it’s a big family here. Minnesota United is a big team and has a bright future and I'm excited to be a part of it all.”

Perez, 29, established himself as a solid backup for the Blues during his time with the club, filling in as the starter for an extended period in 2014. The 6-foot-4 'keeper is a massive presence in goal, and has a powerful kick that gives him incredible range for distribution of the ball.

He has had a very unique journey to Minnesota, spending much of his career as a punter in football. After playing goalkeeper through high school, Perez was asked to kick for the school’s team. He quickly found success and received offers to play for over 20 Division 1 programs. Perez ultimately chose to attend UCLA where he set school records with 286 punts and 12,220 career punting yards.

Perez had short stints with both the New England Patriots and the Miami Dolphins in the National Football League (NFL) before returning to soccer in 2012.

After playing a year with the Pali Blues, he signed with Orange County Blues in 2013, known at the time as the LA Blues. Perez made a handful of appearances in his first season, including a Lamer Hunt U.S. Open Cup match against Chivas USA of MLS.

“I am super excited to see the fans in Minnesota,” Perez said. “I’ve heard so many good things. The Loon, the logo, I think it looks so vicious and cool and I can’t wait to represent it for the club.”