STEFAN CLEVELAND Austin FC Goalkeeper: Impact and Performance Analysis
Stefan Cleveland steps into Austin FC’s net with a wealth of professional experience and a fresh two-year deal through 2025. The club gave him an option for 2026, too. Before this move, Cleveland had already logged several solid seasons in Major League Soccer, showing fans and coaches he’s a steady hand between the posts. Austin FC profile
Right out of the gate, Cleveland made his mark. Remember that clutch penalty save in stoppage time during the Leagues Cup? That moment alone got Austin FC supporters buzzing.
His calm under pressure and knack for making big stops have made him one to watch. If you’re an Austin fan, you’re probably already keeping tabs. Austin FC profile
People around the league are curious to see how Cleveland’s leadership and experience will shape Austin’s defense. The guy’s journey has taken him across the league, and now, he’s got a chance to open up new possibilities for Austin’s back line. Wikipedia
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Stefan Cleveland: Player Profile
Stefan Cleveland, an American goalkeeper, currently plays for Austin FC in Major League Soccer. He’s got quick reflexes and a reputation for consistency.
His roots and college career really set the stage for his pro journey.
Background and Early Life
Cleveland was born on May 25, 1994, in Dayton, Ohio. He grew up loving soccer and, early on, started to stand out as a keeper.
He played for local Ohio clubs, sharpening his skills in youth leagues. Coaches noticed his work ethic and dedication, and he quickly became a standout.
By high school, college scouts started watching his games. His athleticism, leadership, and confidence in goal made him a hot prospect.
Education and College Soccer
After high school, Cleveland chose Dartmouth College to kick off his collegiate soccer career. He didn’t just play—he dominated, even picking up Ivy League Defensive Player of the Year.
That award really put him on the map for college coaches. He played three years at Dartmouth, then transferred to the University of Louisville for his final season.
At Louisville, Cleveland jumped right into the starting spot and helped the team make a push in the NCAA Tournament.
College Career Highlights
| School | Years Attended | Notable Honors |
|---|---|---|
| Dartmouth College | 3 | Ivy League Defensive Player of the Year |
| University of Louisville | 1 | NCAA Tournament starter |
His college run opened the door to the pros and his current Austin FC role.
Professional Journey in Major League Soccer
Stefan Cleveland has played for a handful of clubs across the American soccer landscape. He’s built a name for himself as a dependable, steady pro.
MLS SuperDraft and Early Professional Years
Cleveland’s pro career kicked off when Chicago Fire picked him in the 2017 MLS SuperDraft. At Louisville, he’d already earned a rep as a solid shot-stopper.
The jump to MLS meant tougher competition. Chicago saw his upside and grabbed him in the second round. He wasn’t a day-one starter, but those early years gave him a taste of what the league demands.
He got valuable minutes in preseason and U.S. Open Cup games. Each outing gave him a little more poise and awareness on the big stage.
Chicago Fire FC Period
Chicago Fire FC gave Cleveland a place to grow as a goalkeeper. He played behind veteran starters, but he still made his MLS debut with the club.
Between 2017 and 2019, Cleveland mostly backed up the main guys. He did get some league and cup appearances and spent time with reserve or loan teams to stay sharp.
Training with top MLS talent every day helped him fine-tune his game. He picked up both technical and tactical tricks that would stick with him.
Chicago Fire FC Stats (2017–2019)
| Season | MLS Apps | US Open Cup Apps |
|---|---|---|
| 2017 | 0 | 1 |
| 2018 | 2 | 2 |
| 2019 | 0 | 1 |
Seattle Sounders FC Tenure
Cleveland moved on to Seattle Sounders FC and slotted in as the backup to veteran Stefan Frei. When Frei went down, Cleveland stepped up and got more time in league matches.
He played in regular season games and cup ties for Seattle. His penalty saves and calm in high-pressure moments stood out.
The coaching staff trusted him, and he delivered with shot-stopping, solid distribution, and clear communication. That stretch really cemented him as a reliable MLS keeper.
Seattle Sounders FC Stats (2020–2023)
| Season | MLS Apps |
|---|---|
| 2020 | 1 |
| 2021 | 15 |
| 2022 | 8 |
| 2023 | 1 |
Leagues Outside MLS
Outside of MLS, Cleveland spent time in the USL Championship and USL League One. He played on loan for clubs like FC Tulsa and Lansing Ignite.
Those minutes mattered. He got sharper, saw different attacking styles, and adapted his game. Not every keeper gets that mix of experiences.
He’s also proven himself in knockout competitions, like when he saved a penalty against Pumas UNAM in the Leagues Cup.
Cleveland’s journey through these teams shows just how resilient and committed he is.
Austin FC and 2025 MLS Season
Stefan Cleveland arrived at Austin FC as an experienced free-agent goalkeeper, ready to compete for a key role in 2025. His signing shows the club’s intent to boost depth and competition at the position.
Signing and Role at Austin FC
Austin FC announced Cleveland’s two-year contract through 2025, with a club option for another year. He came on board as a free agent after several MLS seasons, bringing stability and a veteran presence.
Sporting Director Rodolfo Borrell and the front office targeted Cleveland to raise the bar for their keepers. The league’s transfer tracker highlighted the move, and you can see why—they wanted a proven veteran. Veteran presence
Cleveland has often played the dependable backup. This deal, though, signals that Austin trusts him to push for starts. He’ll compete for the number one spot and provide cover in what’s sure to be a demanding 2025 campaign.
Integration into the Squad
After signing, Cleveland started working with Austin FC’s coaching staff and fellow keepers right away. Training focused on shot-stopping, communication, and learning the team’s tactical approach.
His professionalism and calm attitude rub off on the squad. He’s a mentor for younger goalkeepers, sharing insights from his MLS journey.
Head Coach and Sporting Director Rodolfo Borrell now has more options for squad rotation. Cleveland’s experience in tight matches brings extra value in league games and U.S. Open Cup ties.
Austin FC registered him for both first and second teams, so he’s ready for match minutes wherever they need him.
2024-25 Season: Stefan Cleveland at Austin FC
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Position | Goalkeeper |
| Previous Club(s) | Seattle Sounders FC, others |
| Contract Length | 2 years (option for 2026) |
| Role | Backup/competition for #1 |
Outlook for the 2025 Season
Heading into 2025, Cleveland stands as a reliable backup and a real challenger for the starting job. Austin FC wants to blend experience with youth, and Cleveland’s right in the middle of that plan.
He’ll need to adjust to Rodolfo Borrell’s style, especially with distribution and organizing the back line. Early season performances and training will probably decide where he lands on the depth chart.
His contract gives Austin some peace of mind at the back. If another keeper gets hurt or loses form, Cleveland’s there. The battle for the top spot in goal should be wide open, but Cleveland’s track record makes him a key figure for the 2025 campaign. For more info, check out Austin FC’s official Cleveland profile.
Goalkeeping Performance and Key Statistics
Cleveland’s built his name on making big saves when it counts, managing tough stretches, and delivering when the pressure’s on. His stats tell the story of his value for Austin FC.
Saves and Clean Sheets
Cleveland’s reflexes and shot-stopping really shine in tight moments. In the 2024 Leagues Cup, he came up with critical saves and stayed cool, keeping Austin in the fight.
His save percentage during the regular MLS season sits in the mid-to-high 70s. That’s up there with the league’s steadier keepers.
He’s come up big on penalties and close-range shots—those are the moments that can swing a match. When it comes to clean sheets, Cleveland has posted shutouts in both league and cup play.
These games usually feature a disciplined defense, but make no mistake—his quick decisions and command of the box are big reasons why opposing teams struggle to score.
| Season | Saves | Clean Sheets | Save % |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 16 | 1 | 75% |
Minutes Played and Appearances
Since joining Austin FC, Cleveland has filled both starter and backup roles, shifting as the team needs. He made his first league appearances after signing in December 2023, adding to his MLS resume.
His number of games varies each season, depending on team selection and competition for the starting job. Every time he steps on the field, whether in the league or cup, he brings confidence to the back line.
In 2024, Cleveland’s logged just over 900 minutes with Austin FC. His steady play, especially when filling in for injured starters, has been a real asset.
Want to see his up-to-date minutes? Check out Austin FC player statistics.
| Season | Appearances | Minutes Played |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 10 | 920 |
Shutouts and Goals Against Average
Let’s get right to it—the measure that matters most for any goalkeeper is how often they keep that net untouched. Cleveland racks up shutouts, and that’s a big reason people talk about him.
This season, he’s managed a clean sheet in one out of every ten matches. Those shutouts have really mattered in tight games, where just one slip can flip the script.
Now, goals against average—GAA—is a huge stat, too. For 2024, Cleveland’s GAA is sitting at 1.30.
That number tells us a lot about both the defense in front of him and his own knack for handling shots. He’s right there with MLS starting keepers, showing he can be counted on when the whistle blows.
Stats like his GAA and shutouts are all tracked here, and you can see how he’s trying to make a bigger splash as the season rolls along.
Comparisons and Team Dynamics
Stefan Cleveland steps into Austin FC with real competition for that No. 1 goalkeeper spot. His arrival brought a new edge to the keeper group and a few lessons from his past mentors.
Goalkeepers at Austin FC
Brad Stuver, the main man in net in previous seasons, has set the tone for Austin FC. His leadership and steady hands have been huge since the club’s first match.
Now, Cleveland’s in town, and he’s pushing Stuver, raising the bar for everyone in the group.
Both guys have quick reflexes and agility in spades. Cleveland stands out with his calm distribution and confidence with the ball at his feet.
Stat-wise, they’re neck and neck in clean sheets and save percentage, but Stuver’s played a lot more matches for Austin.
| Player | Appearances | Clean Sheets | Save % | Contract Ends |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stefan Cleveland | 3 | 1 | — | 2025 |
| Brad Stuver | 100+ | 20+ | — | 2025+ |
Having two strong keepers gives Austin FC some real depth and options as the MLS season grinds on.
Influence of Stefan Frei and Other Peers
Back in Seattle, Cleveland learned the ropes from Stefan Frei. Frei’s one of the league’s best, and he showed Cleveland the finer points of positioning, talking to defenders, and reading the game.
You can see Frei’s influence—Cleveland’s cool, commands his area, and doesn’t get rattled.
Practicing with Frei and other top keepers showed Cleveland what it takes to be the starter. Since joining Austin FC, he’s brought that experience with him, raising the bar at training.
Younger keepers in Austin’s locker room now have another example to follow. Cleveland’s got MLS games under his belt and a history of learning from the league’s best.
Notable Matches and Competitions
Cleveland’s time with Austin FC has already featured some big moments in high-stakes matches and rivalry showdowns. He’s shown up in international tournaments and domestic clashes, making big stops and keeping his cool when the pressure’s on.
Leagues Cup and International Play
In his first season, Cleveland made a real difference during the Leagues Cup. He stood tall against Pumas UNAM, one of Mexico’s top teams.
Late in that match, Cleveland stopped a penalty in the 94th minute. That save locked in a 3-2 win for Austin FC.
It was a huge moment—showed off his shot-stopping and his nerves when the lights were brightest.
Leagues Cup Highlights:
| Opponent | Saves | Penalty Saves | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pumas UNAM | 4 | 1 | 3-2 W |
Austin FC fans walked away from that game feeling good about their new keeper in international play.
CONCACAF Champions League Participation
Austin FC, like a lot of MLS squads, chased glory in the CONCACAF Champions League. Cleveland brought experience and depth to the roster for those matches against teams from all over North and Central America.
He hasn’t started a Champions League match for Austin yet, but he’s stayed ready on the bench. His training and past experience have him prepped to step in if called, especially in tough games against teams from Mexico or Central America.
These tournaments can be a grind, with matches coming fast. Cleveland’s stayed sharp in training and as a backup, always prepared to answer the call.
Key Matches Against MLS Rivals
Rivalry games—those are the ones you circle on the calendar in MLS. Cleveland’s suited up against teams like Inter Miami, FC Dallas, San Jose Earthquakes, and Minnesota United.
In those battles, his poise and ability to direct the defense got tested. He faced late pressure, especially from FC Dallas and San Jose, but kept things steady.
When he’s played, Cleveland’s helped organize the back line and manage the clock. That’s led to some tight wins and hard-fought draws.
For Austin FC, having a keeper who keeps his head in the big moments makes all the difference.
Loans, Transfers, and Free Agency
Stefan Cleveland joined Austin FC as a free agent goalkeeper. He signed a two-year guaranteed deal through 2025, with an option for 2026. You can check the official club announcement for all the contract details.
Before Austin, Cleveland played for Chicago Fire and Seattle Sounders. He’s bounced around a bit, learning to be a reliable backup along the way.
Loan moves have shaped his journey, too. Recently, Cleveland went on loan to Austin FC II before a match against Houston, picking up valuable minutes.
Career Transfer Overview:
| Year | Club | Status | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2017 | Chicago Fire | Drafted (Transfer) | MLS SuperDraft |
| 2020 | Seattle Sounders | Transfer/Trade | |
| 2023 | Austin FC | Free Agent Signing | Contract: 2025+ |
| 2024 | Austin FC II | Loan | Short-term Loan |
Cleveland’s now a steady hand in the Austin FC goalkeeper group. His time as a free agent and his loan spells show just how adaptable and dependable he’s become.
Development and Future Prospects
Let’s talk about Stefan Cleveland—he’s been quietly stacking up experience in Major League Soccer. Before his move to Austin FC, Cleveland backed up Stefan Frei in Seattle, learning the ropes from one of the best.
Over three years in Seattle, he started 24 times and showed off some sharp reflexes and solid distribution. Each time he stepped on the field, you could see his confidence grow. He’s become a pretty steady presence between the posts.
Recent Professional Stats
| Season | Club | MLS Apps | MLS Next Pro Apps | Clean Sheets |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | Seattle | 10 | 0 | 3 |
| 2023 | Seattle | 9 | 0 | 2 |
| 2024 | Austin FC | TBA | TBA | TBA |
Now, with a two-year contract through the 2025 MLS season with Austin FC, Cleveland’s got a real shot at the starting job. There’s even an option for 2026, so clearly Austin FC sees something they like.
The 2025 campaign? That’s going to be a big one for him. He’ll be looking to rack up more starts and show he can be the guy in net.
Austin’s coaches will keep a close eye on him, not just in games but in training too. They want to see if he’s ready for that next step.
At 29, Cleveland brings just enough experience to keep growing. Austin will also check out their depth chart, including prospects rising through MLS NEXT Pro.
If he keeps trending up, who knows? Maybe he locks down the job in Austin or even catches the eye of another MLS club. Stay tuned.
