COMMERCE CITY, Colo. (CBS4) – Dillon Serna of Brighton is a product of the Colorado Rapids Academy and has become the third local player ever to wear a Rapids jersey.

Serna, 18, played one year for the top ranked Akron Zips, but that was college soccer. Now he’s turning pro, and he thinks he’s ready to play at the next level.

“I’m really excited being able to come back home and come in through the academy and now being with the professional team; being at home and hopefully playing in front of all the home fans,” Serna said. “It’s really exciting for me.”

According to the Rapids, Serna said he credits the academy system for “providing a professional environment that has now prepared him to sign his first contract.”