In early 2022, Issac Cano (Twitter/Insta) earned himself a USL Academy contract that allowed him the opportunity to play with the first team and retain his collegiate eligibility. Less than a year later, he earned his first professional contract with Louisville City. Cano is the sixth LouCity Academy player to sign with the club following Owen Damm, Carlos Moguel Jr., Sebastian Sanchez, and brothers Elijah and Josh Wynder.
“We're proud to sign Issac to a pro contract," said Coach Danny Cruz. "He is a young player that we have seen continue to grow in our first-team environment. He is a fearless competitor who wants to learn and improve every day.”
“We firmly believe in the pathway that we have here at this club and the holistic approach that we take in the development of these kids. To continue to see our ownership's vision with the academy come to fruition in such a short period of time is a testament to the work that our academy coaches do and the approach that we take as a club. My hope is that we continue to see these young players take advantage of the opportunity that they have here at Louisville City.”
“We are extremely proud of Issac for earning a contract with the first team," said the LouCity Academy's director, Luke Spencer. "Issac has always been a skilled player, but it has been his desire, determination, and ability to learn that has allowed him to get to this point. He has worked tirelessly through adversity to achieve this goal, and he has been a joy to work with during his time with the academy. We are excited to watch him as he begins his first year as a pro.”
"I’m forever grateful to the academy and to all of my coaches who have not only made me a better player but ultimately a better person," Cano said. "This has been a long journey, and to become a professional player is something I’ve dreamt of since I was a kid. To finally achieve it is an amazing feeling. I can’t wait to get started.”
The Lexington native had an assist against SKC and started against Colorado Springs last preseason. His debut came in LouCity’s international friendly against Mexico’s Atlante FC last July.
Although fans have not gotten to see much of the young forward, the coaching staff has had plenty of time to review his ability and monitor his growth. Although these signings have not generally led to immediate regular minutes with the first team, it has become a major vote of confidence and an indication that he is someone we could be more of within the next few seasons. Here is to hoping he can eventually see the same level of success as Josh, Elijah, and Carlos!
Parting Thoughts
2024 Signings:
Want more reading on LouCity? Check out the following:
Meet Elijah Wynder: Louisville City FC’s Trailblazing Young Star
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