HERRIMAN, Utah (Thursday, February 2, 2023) – Real Monarchs have signed former RSL Academy midfielder Griffin Dillon from the University of Maryland to an MLS NEXT Pro professional contract, pending league approval.
“On the heels of two seasons at the collegiate level, we are pleased to welcome back former academy standout Griffin Dillon to the Real Monarchs," said Assistant General Manager Tony Beltran. “In Griffin's return we look forward to see his continued development with our staff, during the formative years ahead.”
Dillon, 19, returns to Utah as a familiar face for Real Monarchs fans, having played in seven matches for the Club’s second division side in 2021 before taking his talents to the collegiate level at the University of Maryland. As a Terrapin, Dillion appeared in 35 matches, across two seasons, recording three goals and five assists. This year he helped Maryland win its first Big Ten Regular Season Conference Championship in five years.
Born in San Diego, Cali, but raised in Draper, Utah, Dillon spent one season as a member of the Real Salt Lake Academy where he earned an opportunity to train with the first team during Real Salt Lake’s 2021 preseason training camp. Before joining the RSL Academy, the young midfielder was a part of La Roca FC.
Real Monarchs are in preparation for their second season in MLS NEXT Pro, having finished the 2022 season with a five-match undefeated streak in league play and an eight-match home unbeaten streak across all competitions. The Club’s move to MLS NEXT Pro comes after seven seasons in the USL Championship, during which the team won the 2019 USL Championship Title, the 2017 USL Regular Season Title and the Western Conference Title in both 2017 and 2019, while also qualifying for the postseason in 2018.
Tickets for Real Monarchs can be purchased by calling 844.Real.Tix or visiting www.RSL.com/tickets.
TRANSACTION: Real Monarchs sign midfielder Griffin Dillon to an MLS NEXT Pro professional contract on February 2, 2023
Player Information
Name: Griffin Dillon
Position: Midfielder
Height: 5’11
Date of Birth: April 25, 2003
Age: 19
Hometown: Draper, Utah
Citizenship: United States
Last Club: University of Maryland
How Acquired: Signed on February 2, 2023
