Last Thursday, Koven Johnson took a major step in his soccer journey, being selected in the third round (Pick 70) of the MLS SuperDraft by the Colorado Rapids. It is a moment years in the making—and one that reflects both Koven’s persistence and the long-term development environment that shaped him.

For Steel City FC, Koven’s selection is also something bigger. He becomes the second player from our club drafted into Major League Soccer in the last two drafts, following Michael Sullivan’s MLS selection in 2025. That trend matters. It is tangible proof that our development process works and that players trained here can reach the highest levels of the game.

A Journey That Started Early

Koven’s path began at a young age within our club, prior to the Arsenal FC of Pittsburgh and Hotspurs merger. Our staff identified his potential early on.

“From a young age, the Arsenal FC of Pittsburgh (now Steel City FC) staff knew Koven was special,” said Executive Director Jonathan Velotta.
“The ball was always attached to his foot and he embodied so many of the characteristics we value.”

Velotta began coaching Koven around the U12 age group, and year after year, Koven continued to raise his level. His growth was not linear—it was relentless.

“He just kept raising his game year after year and literally inspired many of his teammates and club mates because of how good he was with the ball,” Velotta added.

Raising the Standard at the Club

Koven played a central role in some of the most important milestones in our boys program:

These achievements were not isolated moments—they were turning points that helped elevate expectations within the club.

“Koven raised the standard of the club and continues to represent us in the most positive way,” Velotta said.

Taking the Next Steps: Barca Academy and Beyond

After his success with Steel City FC, Koven continued to seek environments that would challenge him. At U17, he moved on to the Barca Academy in Arizona, where he continued refining his technical game before transitioning into college soccer at High Point University and ultimately the professional pathway.

Despite moving on, his connection to the club never faded.

“Even when he left for Barca and then college, he makes a point to stay in touch when he’s in town and helps coach and mentor our young players,” Velotta noted.
“In fact, he was at our FP sessions and Development Centers just this week.”

Impact Beyond the Ball

For those who coached him daily, Koven’s influence extended well beyond his technical ability.

“Koven’s best qualities are his persistence, his willingness to improve, and his humanity,” said longtime coach Ed Ellsworth.
“He makes others better around him. His commitment to excellence and a championship standard are an example for all of our young players at Steel City FC.”

Those qualities—discipline, curiosity, and accountability—are exactly what we aim to instill across every age group.

A Pattern Is Emerging

Koven’s MLS Draft selection follows closely on the heels of Michael Sullivan’s MLS selection in 2025, marking two MLS draftees from our club in consecutive drafts.

That matters.

In a region crowded with youth clubs, this level of professional progression is rare. The consistency speaks to a development model built on long-term player growth, technical mastery, and competitive environments—not shortcuts.

It is not coincidence. It is the outcome of years of intentional work.

Setting the Example for Future Generations

One of the most fitting connections between Koven, Michael, and the next generation of players can be found in our Digital Training Ground, a free training resource available to all Steel City FC players.

Both Koven Johnson and Michael Sullivan appear in the training videos, demonstrating exercises and techniques for players across the club.

👉 Explore the Digital Training Ground here.

It is a powerful reminder that the pathway is real—and visible.

Looking Ahead

As Koven begins the next chapter of his career with the Colorado Rapids, we celebrate not only his achievement but what it represents. His journey reflects the values, standards, and belief system that define Steel City FC.

We will be following Koven’s professional career closely and with immense pride. His success is a reminder to every player in our club: if you commit to the process, the possibilities are real.

Congratulations, Koven. The work continues.

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