Derrick Jones becomes first player in Bethlehem Steel FC history

Philadelphia Union Academy prospect Derrick Jones signed with Bethlehem Steel FC today. The resident of Philadelphia has been with the academy for the last two seasons, and now has the distinct honor of becoming the first player to sign to the USL franchise. The stats from the Union's press release are impressive:

"In 2014-15, Jones played in 26 games with 21 starts for the Union U-18s. He scored eight goals while helping lead the team to the United States Soccer Development Academy (USSDA) playoffs, where they finished second in group play. He’s scored three goals in eight games for the U-18s so far in 2015-16." - Union press release December 3, 2015

The Betama, Ghana born Jones is regarded as one of the top academy prospects the Union have, so it's a good sign they were able to ink a deal to keep him in the system. Jones also makes history as the first player out of the Union Academy to sign to a pro team.

With the Union making some big moves already this offseason and now Bethlehem Steel announcing their first signing, I don't think this is the last we've heard from Brendan Burke and company.