Schwenksville native Jackson Gilman signs with Toronto FC II

Schwenksville, Pa. native Jackson Gilman is starting his professional career north of the border, signing an MLS Next Pro deal with Toronto FC II.

Gilman, 21, was drafted 36th overall by Toronto FC in the 2026 MLS SuperDraft after a standout college career at the University of Pittsburgh. He played in MLS Next Pro prior to leaving for college in 2022, making 8 appearances for Philadelphia Union II.

He’s also spent time playing for West Chester United – he was part of the squad that won the Hank Steinbrecher Cup in Arizona in 2023 – and with the Philadelphia Union Development squad in NPSL. Prior to joining the Philadelphia Union Academy – where he starred as both a central defender and outside back – Gilman spent time with West-Mont United. He graduated high school from YSC Academy in 2022.

Gilman’s signing was announced Friday along with midfielder Fletcher Bank.

“Fletcher and Jackson both come from distinguished collegiate programs that value their abilities on the field and their character off the field,” Toronto FC Technical Director Sean Rubio said in a news release announcing the signings. “We’re excited to have both players committed to our project as the next step in their development and we’re equally committed to supporting them every step of the way.”

Gilman won’t have to wait long for a homecoming. His TFC II team visits Chester for their MLS Next Pro season opener on February 28 at 3 p.m.

Matthew Ralph

Matthew Ralph is the managing editor of Philadelphia Soccer Now. He's covered soccer at all levels for a decade in the Philadelphia region and has also written for TheCup.us, NPSL, PrepSoccer and other publications. He lives with his wife and two young children in Broomall, Pa., but grew up in South Jersey and is originally from Kansas.

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