MATT HEFFERNAN
Bio
Matt Heffernan is a dynamic American soccer player known for his versatility as a left winger (LW), central attacking midfielder (CAM), and center forward (CF). Competing at the highest levels of NCAA Division I and USL, Heffernan stands at 6'0" (183 cm) and 165 lbs (75 kg), blending technical skill, creativity, and goal-scoring ability to make a significant impact on the field. He has played for Brooklyn FC, NJIT (NCAA D1), Merrimack College (NCAA D1), NJ Copa, Boston City FC, and Denton Diablos.
Professional opportunities
Brooklyn FC
Heffernan joined Brooklyn FC in 2024, quickly establishing himself as a standout player under the leadership of former professional Gabriel Ferrari. As one of the top performers for the squad, he played a pivotal role in the team’s success, contributing to their rise as an upcoming USL Championship contender.
Minnesota United 2
After his college season, Heffernan caught the attention of Minnesota United FC's scouting staff and was invited to a trial with their MLS NEXT Pro affiliate, Minnesota United 2 (MNUFC2). This opportunity marked an exciting step forward in his professional career as he looked to showcase his talent and make an impact at the next level.
mls & usl
Heffernan participated in the Midwest Pro Combine, where he trained, tested, and played in front of MLS and USL scouts. He competed against top NCAA Division I talent and MLS draft picks, showcasing his skills and proving himself among the best emerging players in the game.
United Soccer league (usl)
Denton Diablos
Heffernan joined the Denton Diablos, where he quickly became known as one of the top young players on the squad. During his time with the team, he played alongside seven MLS draft picks, showcasing his talent in a highly competitive environment. Heffernan's performances on the field garnered significant attention, and he was featured in multiple articles for his standout contributions to the Diablos.
Boston City FC
Heffernan played for Boston City FC in the USL League Two season, under the guidance of now-professional coach João Garcia. The team adopted a Brazilian-style system, where Heffernan gained valuable experience playing alongside professional-level players. The team finished 4th in the highly competitive Northeast Conference.
NJ COPA
Heffernan competed in the 2023 USL League Two season with New Jersey Copa, facing off against top MLS Draft picks in one of the most competitive conferences in the league. His standout performances helped the team secure a 4th-place finish in the conference, as he played against high-level competition and gained valuable experience throughout the season.
College Career
OBU
Matt Heffernan began his collegiate career at OBU where he quickly made an impact. He appeared in 17 games, scoring two goals and adding several assists. One of his standout moments came when he scored a beautiful goal in a key victory over #25 Rogers State, showcasing his skill and finishing ability. Heffernan's performances at OBU helped set the stage for his successful journey in higher levels of competitive soccer.
MERRIMACK COLLEGE
After his freshman season, Matt Heffernan transferred to NCAA Division 1 program Merrimack College near Boston, Massachusetts, where he signed an athletic scholarship. He played in 23 matches for the Warriors, competing against top programs like Duke, Boston College, and Harvard. Heffernan made an immediate impact, making his debut against Mount St. Mary's, where he recorded an assist and helped secure a victory. His contributions helped Merrimack finish 2nd in the Northeast Conference (NEC) and advance to the NEC Semi-Final.
NJIT
For his final year of eligibility, Matt Heffernan transferred to NJIT, joining the highly competitive America East Conference on an NCAA Division 1 scholarship. He made an impactful debut against Villanova and faced off against the 2024 national champions, Vermont. Throughout the season, Heffernan played in nationally televised matches on ESPN and earned a spot on the America East Academic Honor Roll for his performance on and off the field. Heffernan dealt with an injury throughout the season and received surgery after its conclusion.
Youth
fc dallas, Brooklyn fc, Denton Diablos estudiantes
Matt Heffernan developed his soccer skills through his time with top academy teams, including FC Dallas, Denton Diablos Estudiantes, and Brooklyn FC. At these academies, he refined his technical abilities and competed at a high level, gaining valuable experience that shaped his growth as a player.
Dallas Texans Academy
Matt Heffernan spent a significant portion of his youth career with the Dallas Texans Soccer Club, competing in prestigious tournaments like the Dallas Cup and Nike Cup. The Dallas Texans have produced top-tier talent, including Clint Dempsey, Omar González, and Lee Nguyen, all of whom have gone on to have successful careers in professional soccer and with the U.S. Men's National Team.
Marcus High School
At Marcus High School in Texas, Heffernan was a four-year letterwinner, playing a key role in his team's success, including their #2 ranking in Texas and #17 nationally in 2019. He earned first-team All-District and State honors in both 2018 and 2019 and was selected as the Newcomer of the Year during his freshman campaign.