While Bethlehem Steel FC was still in it’s infancy on January 14, 2016, pieces of the club being selected in the 2016 MLS Super Draft by the Philadelphia Union in Baltimore, MD.

After obtaining three selections in the first six picks, Philadelphia Union were looking to build a strong foundation for the future. Those rookies made an immediate impact for the MLS club as Josh Yaro, Keegan Rosenberry and Fabian Herbers combined for 5,677 minutes played, the most by a 2016 MLS rookie class.

Alongside the trio of first-round selections, the Union selected defender Taylor Washington with the third pick in the second round and later selected midfielder Cole Missimo in the fourth round.

While the players were drafted by the Philadelphia Union, four of the five selection saw time with Bethlehem Steel FC as part of their journey to the first team along with gaining experience in professional soccer.

Fabian Herbers’ time with Steel FC lasted only six matches for the German native but during that time, the forward showcased his first round talent. A member of the inaugural starting XI, Herbers notched the first goal in club history with a score in the 43rd minute against FC Montreal. Herbers’ first-half goal proved decisive as Steel FC notched its first victory in team history. When Herbers earned his call up for the Philadelphia Union, he had played in six matches and was the team’s leading scorer with two goals on seven shots taken.

Josh Yaro, the No. 2 selection in the 2016 draft, also made his debut with Steel FC in the club’s inaugural match at the Stade Olympique against FC Montreal. In short time with the club, four matches, Yaro went the full 90 minutes on each occasion in helping Steel FC two victories and a shutout.

Second round selection Taylor Washington became a fan favorite during his time with Steel FC in 2016, appearing in 28 matches for the team. During his 2,473 minutes of action, the second most on the team, Washington used his speed to control the flank. After matches, the George Mason alum was sure to sign autographs with fans and thank them for their support of the club.

Cole Missimo appeared in 19 matches with Bethlehem Steel FC last year, coming off the bench seven times. A strong addition when on the field, Missimo grabbed his lone assist of the year against the Richmond Kickers on April 17. Missimo connected with Eric Ayuk in the 21st minute to give Steel FC the opening goal in route to the team’s first home victory in a 2-1 scoreline.