IRVINE, Calif. --- The first pro club signing of the season for UC Irvine men's soccer is Ashish Chattha heading down the street to USL Championship side, Orange County SC.

Announced by the club on Tuesday, Chattha officially signs with the club after two years as an Anteater graduating as a sociology major and the team's leading scorer during his time. The midfielder stood out after a successful trial period that featured his first professional appearance for the club in an international friendly against German club, Hamburger SV.

Chattha played 38 matches over his junior and senior seasons with the 'Eaters scoring eight goals, four game-winners, and 19 total points which included a Big West regular season title in 2021. The San Francisco-native began his career at the University of San Francisco playing 30 matches for them.

"Extremely blessed to sign for USL Championship side, Orange County SC. Couldn't have done it without the support of my family, girlfriend, friends, teammates, and coaches. I'm very grateful for my time at UCI because I learned a lot about football from elite coaches. I'm excited for the start of my new journey and thank everyone who has been part of this. Most importantly, I want to thank God for giving me a chance to fulfill my dreams and playing at the next level."

Chattha joins the 12 Anteaters currently playing professionally and eight within the USL Championship or League One. OCSC has been home for Anteaters in the past like current LAFC / Las Vegas Lights FC captain Danny Crisostomo along with Mats Bjurman and Giovanni Godoy.

OCSC were league champions in 2021 and looking to rebound in 2023 which at home on March 11.

Orange County SC Agrees To Terms With Midfielder Ashish Chattha