TORONTO – Not long into their four-year existence, Toronto FC planted a development system that they hoped would sprout players for the first team. Two-and-a-half-years later, the system produced its first fruit when TFC unveiled central defender Doneil Henry on Thursday as the club’s first homegrown signing.
“I’m still shocked – wow!” said Henry, 17, who, at times, was speechless during the news conference. "I’m very happy to be a part of this team and this environment."
WATCH: Toronto introduce Henry
The signing won’t fall under the club’s salary cap, as the league rewards its clubs for developing home grown talent, an initiative announced in 2007. Terms of the deal were not disclosed as per club policy.
“Today sends a clear message, an [inspirational] message to kids across the country that there’s a very clear path to pro soccer in this country and that path is through Toronto FC Academy as Doneil is a testament to,” said Earl Cochrane, director of the TFC Academy and manager of team operation, on Thursday.
The news is a welcome development for coach Preki, as Toronto are fighting for their playoff lives in MLS and are in the midst of a wide-open group stage in the CONCACAF Champions League.
Injuries, suspensions and the need to give players rest amidst a heavy schedule means the 6-foot-2, 180-pounder from nearby Brampton, Ontario, will likely see critical minutes over the last 10 matches.
Henry signed in Nov. 2008 with the TFC Academy, which has teams in the semi-pro Canadian Soccer League, after his release from the Ontario Soccer Association Provincial Program.
The center back became captain of the Junior Academy team and steadily rose up the depth chart. In Nov. 2009, Henry advanced to the Senior Academy, where he earned first team training sessions and appeared in three matches.
Henry made surprise starts against Vancouver Whitecaps FC, Bolton Wanderers FC and CD Motagua, earning Man of the Match honors against the English Premier League side.
The combination of his quick development and sound play in the three games culminated in his first pro contract.
Henry hopes to emulate the lead of another young central defender in 21-year-old Nana Attakora, who himself has emerged this year as the club’s most consistent defender.
WATCH: Henry talks to the media
“He’s one of the young guys that started as one of the youngest players on the team and he’s made a big improvement and change from when he came here, from not playing to a starter on a regular basis,” said Henry about Attakora. “That’s who I want to look up to on the team.”
Henry won’t count against the 24-man roster and fills one of two roster spots available for homegrown players.
“Doneil was the first [to be signed from our academy] and we’re happy to have him on board,” said TFC director of soccer Mo Johnston. “This is a great day for Canadian soccer and a great day for TFC.”
WATCH: Johnston talks about Henry
