Roots in Northern California: Placer United (U10–U14)

Rylan Hashimoto’s soccer foundation was built through Placer United Soccer Club, where he competed from U10 through U14. In those crucial early years, he developed the technical skills, vision, and tenacious work ethic that eventually caught the attention of national-level scouts.

In 2024, his standout performance at the ECNL Regional Showcase earned him a spot at Real Salt Lake’s MLS NEXT Academy—a transformative moment in his youth soccer journey.

A High School Life Unlike Any Other: RSL Academy Residency

Upon relocating to Utah, Rylan joined Real Salt Lake’s unique Residency Academy, blending elite training with a full high school education—all on one integrated campus. This immersive environment has been instrumental in his growth, nurturing not only his athletic talents but also personal maturity through disciplined time management and academic commitment.

Dominating the National Spotlight in 2025

Rylan’s rise continued with spectacular showings on the national stage:

• Generation adidas Cup: A dominant U16 performance culminated in a 4–0 victory over LA Galaxy, where Rylan scored twice in the final and totaled five goals, earning Tournament MVP honors. (mlssoccer, rsl)
• MLS NEXT Cup: RSL clinched a rare double, with Rylan’s contributions helping vault the team to the title, and he secured a slot in the MLS NEXT Cup Best XI. (rsl)
• MLS NEXT All-Star Game: Selected for the West squad, Rylan lifted his impact in the showcase by winning possession in the attacking third and setting up momentum-shifting plays—including a critical 70th-minute dribble that led to an equalizer. (OurSports Central)

Called Up to the U.S. U-17 National Team

As a testament to his rapid development and national recognition, Rylan was recently called up to the U.S. U‑17 National Team—an important milestone signaling his emergence at the highest level of youth soccer.

While the official RSL announcement didn’t include him among qualifiers call‑ups in early February (rsl), social reports from youth soccer circles confirm that “Rylan Hashimoto’s play with RSL warranted a call up” to the U17 setup (X (formerly Twitter)). This marks a significant endorsement of his potential on the international stage.

Playing Style & Future Outlook

Rylan thrives as both a midfielder and attacker—known for attacking creativity, relentless pressing, inventive runs, and positional versatility. These attributes, paired with his competitive maturity and structured high school life within the residency, shape him as a top-tier emerging prospect.

His path—from Placer United and the ECNL Showcase spotlight to academy honors and national team call-up—crystallizes the modern U.S. development route: grassroots excellence, crucial showcase opportunities, and residency-based progression.

Summary Table

Ryan Hollingshead’s Major League Soccer career reached a remarkable milestone this season as the veteran defender celebrated his 300th MLS appearance — a testament to both his longevity and unwavering commitment to the sport.

A product of Placer United Soccer Club in Northern California, Ryan honed his skills locally before making a name for himself at UCLA, where he was an All-American standout. In 2013, he was selected by FC Dallas in the MLS SuperDraft, but unlike most, Ryan delayed the start of his professional career. Instead, he chose to honor a personal promise — helping his brother Scott build Harvest Bible Chapel, a new church in Sacramento. Guided by faith and family, this decision reflected the depth of his character.

In 2017, his journey took another dramatic turn. While aiding a stranded motorist during icy conditions, Ryan was struck by a car, suffering three broken vertebrae in his neck. His future in soccer seemed uncertain. But in true Hollingshead fashion, he defied the odds. After months in a neck brace and intense rehab, he returned to the field just four months later and went on to appear in 18 games that same season. His courage earned him the MLS WORKS Humanitarian of the Year award for his selflessness.

After nearly a decade with FC Dallas, Ryan was traded to LAFC in February 2022, where he quickly became a key piece of the backline. His consistent performances and leadership helped fuel LAFC’s success in league play and beyond.

Most recently, Hollingshead and LAFC faced Chelsea FC in a highly anticipated Club World Cup match. Despite a challenging 2–0 loss, Ryan was a standout performer, pushing forward relentlessly and coming close to scoring with a stunning 30-yard strike. The result may not have gone their way, but Hollingshead’s class and competitiveness on the global stage once again highlighted the career of a player who has overcome every obstacle placed in his path.

From building churches to building defenses, Ryan Hollingshead’s story is one of grit, grace, and gratitude — and he’s far from done writing it.

We’re thrilled to announce that the Mexican National Team has scouted Placer United’s Kairi Payan during a recent futsal tournament. She is invited to the El Camino – Regional Talent ID Camp for outdoor play!

In a letter received from Diego Slobotzky, Head of Mexican National Teams Competitions, he wrote, “Kairi’s game vision, soccer IQ, offensive drive, and precise passing caught the eye of national scouts—earning her this exciting opportunity through El Camino, the Mexican Federation’s premier talent identification program in the U.S.

The scouts were clear: while no game is without mistakes, Kairi’s performance stood out, and they’re eager to continue evaluating her between June 13-18 in Sacramento.” This opportunity is a big step in Kairi’s soccer journey—and just the beginning of what we hope will be a bright future!

The Payan family credits Placer United Soccer Club as a cornerstone of Kairi’s development. “The support, guidance, and high-level training she’s received have helped shape her into the player—and person—she is today,” said Kairi’s father, Oscar Payan.

“We’re proud of Kairi and inspired by her commitment, humility, and work ethic,” said Ron Benjamin, Placer United Director of Girls Coaching. “She knows there’s still a long road ahead—but she’s ready to chase her dream and represent with pride.”

Let’s go, Kairi!