After a breakout sophomore season at Georgetown University, in which Mitchell Baker ’24 helped the Hoyas win the Big East Championship and make the Elite 8 of the NCAA Tournament, many started saying that an MLS Club would draft Mitch. After all, he was the 8th leading goal scorer in the country, a 2nd Team All American, a Mac Herman Semifinalist, a unanimous selection for the All-Big East team, as well as being a “true freshman”, having gone to college a year early at 17 years of age.
Baker celebrates a goal for Georgetown. Photo: Georgetown Hoyas
The Colorado Rapids post announcing Baker’s pick. (Instagram)
On December 18th, 2025, Baker’s dream became a reality when he received a call from the Colorado Rapids at the 10th overall pick in the MLS SuperDraft, marking the start of his professional soccer career. With that selection, Mitchell made history for Northwood, becoming the first alumnus to be drafted in the first round of the MLS SuperDraft, a huge milestone for both Mitch and the school.
Before his journey to the United States, Mitch, born in Melbourne, Australia, spent 10 years in Hong Kong, which led him to take up soccer instead of Australian Rules Football. He played for the Kitchee FC, a local professional academy, and the Hong Kong Football Club. Upon returning to Australia, Mitch played for Melbourne Victory (an A-League academy). Halfway through his freshman year, Baker made a huge move to the US at age 15 to Northwood School. Moving across to the other side of the world was challenging for Mitchell as he had to adjust to an entirely new environment. Although it was hard, it played a huge role in his character development.
Whilst Mitch had always been tall, he only physically developed after he arrived in the USA and switched from CB/CM to striker. He made a significant impact on the Northwood/Black Rock soccer program. During his sophomore year, he scored 56 goals and 19 assists, placing him on the radar for colleges across the country. Shortly after his sophomore year, he committed to Georgetown University. In his Junior year, Mitch scored 73 goals and 13 assists as a U19. That successful season allowed Mitch to make another bold decision, deciding to join the Georgetown Hoyas a year earlier than expected. Mitch totaled 141 goals and 39 assists in 121 games in his 2 and a half years at Northwood, a record that will be hard to beat.
Baker celebrates a goal while at Northwood. Photo: Mr. Michael Aldridge.
At Georgetown, Baker continued to grow beyond the score sheet. Georgetown coaches, teammates, and commentators were very impressed with Mitch’s technical skills and footwork, given his 6-foot 5 frame. They were also impressed by his aerial skills and his ability to hold the ball up and kick off both feet with equal skill. These skills were on display as he scored a brace as the Hoyas defeated UCF 2-0 in the Round of 32 in the NCAA Division 1 tournament.
Baker’s unique athletic attributes, paired with his consistent performances, attracted many MLS scouts who were looking at potential draft picks. What makes his selection even more special is that he told clubs he would not leave college until after he graduated.
Baker is a sophomore in the McDonough School of Business at Georgetown, majoring in Finance and minoring in Entrepreneurship, and he is accelerating his graduation path. He still managed a 3.8 GPA despite his workload and earned Second Honors last semester.
Interview with Mitch Baker regarding his Draft Day and journey:
What did it feel like when you got drafted 10th overall in the MLS Superdraft?
“It was a dream come true. You look back at where it started and how tough the journey was, but it is satisfying to know that it was all worth it at the end of the day.”
What does it mean to be the first Northwood Alumnus drafted in the first round?
“It’s a special achievement for me, considering how big a role Northwood played in getting me to where I am. I’m just proud to represent the school in this way.”
Who are you most thankful for along the way?
“My family, without a doubt. I’m also thankful for the coaches and teachers at both Northwood and Georgetown because without them, I wouldn’t be here.”
How did you find the move from Australia to the United States?
“At first, it was challenging being away from mates and family, but overall, I think it forced me to mature and develop as a person.”
What excites you the most about joining the Colorado Rapids?
“I’m excited to be in a competitive environment surrounded by people with similar goals to me. I’m also excited because I think this will give me a feel for the professional lifestyle. Being drafted is great, but it doesn’t guarantee a contract (unlike other sports drafts). There is a lot of hard work to come, but I’m ready for the challenge!”
Baker’s journey from Melbourne to Lake Placid, to Washington, DC, and potentially Colorado is quite remarkable. His journey involved risk and hard work, which paid off. As he continues his path, his story will be seen as a milestone for the Northwood program, and it will be exciting to watch!
