First in a series highlighting the careers of Southern Californians who play professional soccer.

Robbie Rogers, who grew up in Rolling Hills Estates, just completed his first MLS season with the Columbus Crew

Currently on tour in China with the U.S. Under-23 Men’s National Team, Rogers came on strong in the latter half of the season. (He didn’t see much playing time early on, although Rogers told me he didn’t know why at the recent U-23 camp at Home Depot Center, but hoped he’d proved a point. Crew Coach Sigi Schmid, a long-time South Bay resident who has known Rogers since he played youth soccer, is scouting in Europe and was unavailable for comment).

Rogers showed he has an eye for goal and displayed some deft touches in midfield, drawing praise from the likes of Argentine star Guillermo Barros Schelotto with whom he combined well in midfield and credits with helping him become a better player.

Check out the highlights of Rogers season and career in this compilation of clips:

Fans are discussing Robbie and the video here.