Ghana native living a dream as Sounders FC draft pick

Michael Tetteh still remembers the radio ad from 11 years ago.

"Right to Dream," a nonprofit organization, was holding open tryouts for a residential soccer academy in Tetteh's native country of Ghana. That was music to the ears of a small village boy with aspirations of playing professionally.

Right to dream, indeed.

But Tetteh had more than just a lofty goal. He had the talent, the work ethic and, perhaps most important, the independent nature to see it through. And after a decadelong journey, one that covered more than 7,500 miles, Tetteh's age-old dream was realized Thursday when he was selected by Sounders FC with the 20th overall choice in the 2011 MLS SuperDraft.

On his banner day, Tetteh's thoughts went back to that memorable advertisement on the radio and the opportunity that followed.

" 'Right to Dream' is the reason why I am here in the States, and I am very grateful for everything that they have done for me," he said.

Founded by Englishman Tom Vernon, "Right to Dream" was just a fledgling enterprise when Tetteh tried out. The organization now is grown and flourishing, providing educational and athletic opportunities for underprivileged children in Africa, but Tetteh remembers the early days when all 18 boys who made the team lived in the same house.

Back then, "Everything we did was about soccer."

Tetteh got another break six years later when his academy was playing the University of Ghana. Tetteh and a couple teammates caught the eye of an American coach who offered to help with scholarships to the Dunn School in Los Olivos, Calif.

The offer was too good to refuse. But there was a cost.

"I haven't seen my family in six years," said Tetteh.

"I love them to death and everything, but there are just things I have to take care of and my goal is to go home this year to see them."

Tetteh, who turns 22 Sunday, played collegiately at UC Santa Barbara, but he missed most of his junior season with a leg injury. As one of the top prospects in the draft, Tetteh already is under contract with MLS as a part of Generation Adidas draft class — something he hopes will help him support his family financially.

Sounders FC stands to benefit too. Team officials viewed the left-footed standout as one of the best, most dynamic players in the draft.

"We had Tetteh probably going in the top 13 or 14, so when he dropped to 20 we were very, very pleased," said coach Sigi Schmid.

With a personality as big and bright as his smile, Tetteh has goals of contributing early. But above all, he's thankful for the opportunity.

"I have worked very, very hard and I've met so many people that have affected my life and helped me throughout the years," Tetteh said. "This is just a perfect dream coming true for me. I couldn't be happier to be a part of the Seattle club."

Joshua Mayers: 206-464-3184 or jmayers@seattletimes.com