Rubin's Professional Soccer Journey: From Oregon to the USL
The path of a professional athlete is often a global odyssey, and for Rubin, that journey began in Beaverton, Oregon. From his early days in youth soccer to competing in the top flights of Europe and North America, Rubin has built a career defined by versatility and moments of individual brilliance.
Early Life and Youth Development
Rubin's foundation in the sport was laid in his hometown of Beaverton, Oregon. He attended Whitford Middle School and developed his skills playing for Westside Metros and Beaverton High School, preparing him for the leap to the professional stage.
European Beginnings and Early Career
In March 2014, at the age of eighteen, Rubin moved to the Netherlands to sign a four-year contract with FC Utrecht. He made an immediate impact during his professional debut on August 17, 2014, playing the full 90 minutes and recording an assist in a 2–1 win over Willem II.
During his tenure in the Netherlands, Rubin achieved success with Jong FC Utrecht, the reserve team, winning the Beloften Eredivisie (the reserve league of the Dutch Eredivisie) in the 2015–16 season.
Following his release from FC Utrecht, Rubin transitioned to the Danish Superliga in January 2017, signing with Silkeborg IF. Later that year, he joined Stabæk to complete the 2017 season.
Transition to North American Leagues
Rubin's career shifted toward the Americas in February 2018 when he signed with Club Tijuana of Liga MX (the top professional division in Mexico). He spent a significant portion of his time with Tijuana's affiliate, Dorados, before joining San Diego Loyal in September 2020.
On January 7, 2021, Rubin entered Major League Soccer (MLS) by signing with Real Salt Lake. He quickly gained international attention on May 7, 2021, when he scored a stunning bicycle kick against the San Jose Earthquakes. Although Real Salt Lake lost the match 1–2, the strike was officially named the 2021 MLS Goal of the Year.
In January 2024, Rubin returned to Liga MX via a loan move from Real Salt Lake to Querétaro.
Recent Chapters: Charleston Battery and El Paso Locomotive
Rubin joined the USL Championship (the second tier of the US soccer pyramid) on April 24, 2025, signing with the Charleston Battery. He made a decisive impact on July 12, 2025, scoring a 68th-minute header against New Mexico United at Isotopes Park. This winning goal secured a 2–1 victory and propelled Charleston to the top of the USL standings.
The most recent chapter of his career began on December 30, 2025, when El Paso Locomotive announced they had signed Rubin to a contract for the 2026 USL Championship season.
Key Facts
- Hometown: Beaverton, Oregon.
- Major Achievement: Scored the 2021 MLS Goal of the Year with a bicycle kick.
- European Success: Won the Beloften Eredivisie in 2015–16.
- League Experience: Has played in the Eredivisie (Netherlands), Superliga (Denmark), Liga MX (Mexico), MLS, and USL Championship (USA).
Career Summary
| Year/Period | Club | League/Competition |
|---|---|---|
| 2014–2017 | FC Utrecht / Jong FC Utrecht | Eredivisie / Beloften Eredivisie |
| 2017 | Silkeborg IF | Danish Superliga |
| 2017 | Stabæk | Norwegian League |
| 2018–2020 | Club Tijuana / Dorados | Liga MX |
| 2020 | San Diego Loyal | USL |
| 2021–2024 | Real Salt Lake | MLS |
| 2024 | Querétaro (Loan) | Liga MX |
| 2025 | Charleston Battery | USL Championship |
| 2026+ | El Paso Locomotive FC | USL Championship |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which goal is Rubin most famous for?
Rubin is most recognized for his bicycle kick goal against the San Jose Earthquakes on May 7, 2021, which was awarded the 2021 MLS Goal of the Year.
Where did Rubin start his professional career?
He began his professional career in the Netherlands, signing a four-year deal with FC Utrecht in March 2014.
What is the Beloften Eredivisie?
The Beloften Eredivisie is the reserve league for the Dutch Eredivisie; Rubin won this competition in the 2015–16 season with Jong FC Utrecht.
Which USL teams has Rubin played for?
Rubin has played for San Diego Loyal, the Charleston Battery, and most recently signed with El Paso Locomotive FC.
Did Rubin play in Mexico?
Yes, Rubin played in Liga MX with Club Tijuana (including time with affiliate Dorados) and later joined Querétaro on loan from Real Salt Lake.