Completed Event: Men's Soccer at #24 Kentucky on October 4, 2025 , Loss , 0, to, 2
MSOC
Final
James Madison
0
at #24 Kentucky
2
James Madison University | Official Athletics Site
Lelin Signs First Pro Contract with Chattanooga
4/25/2025 3:47:00 PM | Men's Soccer
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. – Former James Madison men's soccer midfielder Yanis Lelin has signed his first professional contract, inking a deal with USL League One's Chattanooga Red Wolves, as announced by the club on Friday afternoon.
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Playing in 79 matches with 46 starts over a five-year career, Lelin was a vital part in the midfield and along the back line for a nationally ranked side. He tallied a total of 20 points in his career, stemming from six goals and eight assists. In his final season, the Madrid, Spain native started in all 19 matches and scored four goals for eight points.
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"Yanis is a dynamic player with a fantastic engine and an eye for creative chances," said Chattanooga Head Coach and Technical Director Scott Mackenzie. "His experience at JMU shows he can perform at a high level, and his versatility gives us important options down the left side. He's technically gifted, and brings a professional mindset that fits perfectly with our vision for the 2025 season."
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Lelin began his career by being a part of the side that won a third consecutive CAA title during the spring 2021 season. The Dukes were a mainstay in the national rankings throughout his time in Harrisonburg, as JMU was ranked as high as eighth by United Soccer Coaches for its highest ranking by the outlet since 1997. During the 2023 season, he was a contributor to the Dukes advancing to the Round of 16 for fifth time in program history.
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Sunday, April 27 will be the first time Lelin will don Red Wolves colors as they will compete in the Jägermeister Cup.
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Playing in 79 matches with 46 starts over a five-year career, Lelin was a vital part in the midfield and along the back line for a nationally ranked side. He tallied a total of 20 points in his career, stemming from six goals and eight assists. In his final season, the Madrid, Spain native started in all 19 matches and scored four goals for eight points.
Â
"Yanis is a dynamic player with a fantastic engine and an eye for creative chances," said Chattanooga Head Coach and Technical Director Scott Mackenzie. "His experience at JMU shows he can perform at a high level, and his versatility gives us important options down the left side. He's technically gifted, and brings a professional mindset that fits perfectly with our vision for the 2025 season."
Â
Lelin began his career by being a part of the side that won a third consecutive CAA title during the spring 2021 season. The Dukes were a mainstay in the national rankings throughout his time in Harrisonburg, as JMU was ranked as high as eighth by United Soccer Coaches for its highest ranking by the outlet since 1997. During the 2023 season, he was a contributor to the Dukes advancing to the Round of 16 for fifth time in program history.
Â
Sunday, April 27 will be the first time Lelin will don Red Wolves colors as they will compete in the Jägermeister Cup.
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