Rory O’Driscoll: Local roots and college success

Rory O’Driscoll is a true homegrown talent from Minneapolis. Before his professional career, he won five state tournament championships with Minneapolis United and spent time developing in the Minnesota Thunder Academy. He played collegiate soccer at the University of New Hampshire from 2019 to 2022, making 63 appearances and scoring 19 goals. His college accolades included being named the America East Conference Midfielder of the Year. During his college summers, he also played locally for Minneapolis City SC and spent time with North Carolina Fusion U23.

Draft day and joining the Loons

His path to the pros started when he was selected 78th overall by Nashville SC in the 2023 MLS SuperDraft. After going unsigned by Nashville, O’Driscoll found his way back home, signing his first professional contract with MNUFC2 in March 2023.

He was a steady presence in the midfield for the Twos across the 2023 and 2024 seasons, making 44 appearances and scoring eight goals. His dedication paid off when he signed a short-term agreement with the first team on June 29, 2024. He made his Major League Soccer debut that same day, coming on as an injury-time substitute against the Portland Timbers.

Life after Minnesota

O’Driscoll left Minnesota following the 2024 season and took his talents to the USL Championship. On Feb. 27, 2025, he signed with Las Vegas Lights FC. He made 16 appearances for the club during the 2025 season, logging over 800 minutes in the midfield.

Current status

Following the conclusion of the 2025 season, Las Vegas Lights announced their roster decisions and O’Driscoll was released by the club. The 26-year-old midfielder is currently a free agent, making his next career move uncertain as he looks for his next opportunity.