The Barometer Online

Issue date: 5/20/08 Section: Sports

Media Credit: Peter Strong Ryan Johnson spent his time at Oregon State blowing by the opposition. Now he moves on to the MLS where scouts like his speed.

Ryan Johnson, a former Oregon State men's soccer standout (2002-05) and the Beavers career assist leader, has signed on with the San Jose Earthquakes of Major League Soccer. Johnson signs with the squad after spending the past indoor season with the New Jersey Ironmen and a year with Oster IF in Sweden in 2007.

"In just two short years, Ryan has become an experienced professional at a variety of levels," Oregon State Head Coach Dana Taylor said. "We are proud of his accomplishments and I am confident he will continue to achieve with MLS."

The Jamaican-born Johnson was originally drafted in the third round of the 2006 MLS SuperDraft by Real Salt Lake. He played seven games for RSL before being traded to the Chicago Fire in 2006. He appeared in three matches with the Fire.

Johnson, who has extensive international experience, made his debut with the Jamaican national team in 2006, playing 70 minutes against the United States. The Earthquakes acquired his rights from the Fire in exchange for a conditional draft pick.

Johnson's signing with San Jose means Oregon State now has four active alumni playing in the MLS. He joins Alan Gordon (Los Angeles Galaxy), Robbie Findley (Real Salt Lake) and Bryan Jordan (Los Angeles Galaxy) in the United States' top professional soccer league..

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