Former Clemson Soccer Standout Signs Professional Contract

Dec. 15, 2004

CLEMSON, SC–Former Clemson soccer player, Chase Hilgenbrinck has signed a contract with a professional team in Chile.

Hilgenbrinck will play left fullback for Hauchipato, a member of a 20-team league in Chile.

“Playing professional soccer has always been by dream,” Hilgenbrinck said. “I realize not many people get to leive their dream, I feel blessed.”

Hilgenbrinck, who graduated from Clemson in May, spent the past five monts training with the team and living in Concepcion, a city in central Chile. He proved himself well enough to earn a contract.

“All the sacrifices I’ve made and being away from by family and friends has not been easy,” Hilgenbrinck said. “But to fulfill my dream of playing professional soccer, it’s worth it.”

Hilgenbrinck played at Clemson in 2000-2003 and was a three-year starter as a defender.

“We’re extremely proud of Chase and his pursuit of playing at the professional level,” said Clemson Head Coach Trevor Adair. “Chase will be an outstanding professional player.”