The 2019-2020 season was a special one for former EDP Soccer player Daniel Edelman. In November 2019, he was part of the United States U16 National Team in the 19th annual Nike Friendlies, which included Netherlands, Turkey and the U17 National Team. Edelman was a starter in the game where the U16s upset the U17s, and helped his team win the tournament with a draw against Netherlands and a win against Turkey. The 2019-2020 season would end with Edelman scoring his first professional goal at only 17 years old.
Edelman, from Warren NJ, joined PDA as a youth player. Originally placed on the clubs second team in his age group, Edelman quickly worked his way into the top team. Then in November 2013, won his first NJYS State Cup at U11 when the EDP League side PDA Drogba defeated Ironbound SC. The next season, PDA Drogba repeated as champions with its second NJYS State Cup Championship. PDA Drogba would finish that 2014-2015 season as USYS Eastern Regional Champions. Edelman and teammate Kenan Hot, two of the stars of the team, would later move on to play for Red Bulls Academy.
As part of the Red Bulls Academy, Edelman was given the opportunity to train with Red Bulls II, the clubs USL Championship team. In the team’s season opener, Edelman was named a reserve against Hartford Athletic, making his debut as a substitute. By the team's second game of the season, Edelman had worked his way into the starting XI against Philadelphia Union II. Edelman has now made 5 appearances for the team this season. In that first start, Edelman scored his first professional goal.
“Drogba was more than just a soccer team to me, we were a special family, everybody, that was able to accomplish what we desired. We were always in it together, allowing us to grab 5 state cups and a regional championship. The regional championship in West Virginia was my last ride with this team and it was – no question – one of the best highlights of my life so far. These guys were my teammates, but even more, incredible friends. I'll cherish those moments forever and never forget all of our smiles and laughs as we held up that trophy, one last time.” — Daniel Edelman “Daniel is without a doubt, one of the best players I've had the good fortune of working with in my career. And more importantly, he's a fantastic young man. For me, the most amazing part of his game is his leadership skills. From an early age, Daniel displayed the intangible qualities of a true champion and leader, not often seen in players at any age. I am excited for him as he begins his journey as a young professional in the game." Edelman, class of 2022 star, has verbally committed to University of North Carolina.