Connor Dale Signs Homegrown Deal With FC Cincinnati After Rapid Rise

FC Cincinnati have signed 2010-born goalkeeper Connor Dale to a Homegrown contract following a remarkable rise through the club’s system in 2026.

What makes Dale’s breakthrough particularly notable is how quickly it has happened. The goalkeeper joined FC Cincinnati’s academy in January 2026 from Inter Miami, arriving at the club only months before earning his first professional opportunities and ultimately securing a Homegrown deal.

Dale, who was born on June 29, 2010, quickly established himself within Cincinnati’s pathway. He made his MLS NEXT Pro debut with FC Cincinnati 2 during the 2026 season and went on to earn significant experience against older competition. His performances also earned him recognition from the United States youth national-team setup.

His progression reached another milestone when he was selected for the 2026 MLS NEXT All-Star Game. Dale came off the bench in the second half and made six saves, including two important one-on-one stops, as the Eastern Conference defeated the West 6-1.

He also featured for FC Cincinnati’s U18 side during the 2026 MLS NEXT Cup, adding another layer to a season in which his development accelerated at an unusual pace.

Dale had already been part of the U.S. youth national-team environment before his move to Cincinnati, including a place in the U.S. U-16 group during 2026. His performances at club level subsequently put him firmly on the radar as one of the younger goalkeepers in the country.

Now, Cincinnati has made its own commitment.

After joining the academy from South Florida earlier this year, Dale has gone from an academy goalkeeper to an MLS NEXT Pro player, an MLS NEXT All-Star and a U.S. youth international — all before turning 17.

The Homegrown deal is the latest confirmation that FC Cincinnati sees him as part of its long-term plans in goal.

For Dale, the next challenge will be turning a remarkable first year in Cincinnati into a sustained progression toward MLS.