One of actor Danny Trejo’s most recognizable roles was as the character Machete in multiple films. Funny enough, CSUN soccer star Daniel Trejo is most known for cutting through soccer defenses like a machete. When I asked about how old he was when the questions and comments about the other famous Trejo came around, Daniel answered, “I was around 14 years old. And people always ask me if I’m related to him. Yes, I am a fan of him and enjoy watching his movies.”

The younger Trejo made his name north of Hollywood, in his native Mendota, California. He broke the high school state record for career goals with 200 strikes. That total included 65 goals in his senior year alone, breaking his brother Javier’s record. Daniel said, “My brother was very happy for me and was glad the record stayed in the family. He always pushed and motivated me to reach it.”

After his record-shattering high school career, he would take his talents to California State University at Northridge where he’s excelled as a member of the Matadors’ soccer team. Trejo’s totaled 26 goals, 15 assists, and accolades like 2019 Big West Offensive Player of the Year, Second Team All-Region, and more in his three years so far. “I have a lot of awards but nothing would be possible without my teammates and coaches,” Trejo said. “Soccer is a team sport and everyone needs to work together. We are a family who enjoys working with each other at CSUN.”

2019 BIG WEST OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR Daniel Trejo (@CSUNMensSoccer) 🔴 ✅ 2nd Matador to collect award – first in 15 years

✅ Led BWC with 25 points

✅ Tied for BWC lead with 9️⃣ goals

✅ Had a point in 11 of 19 games#UniteTheValley | #PlayBig pic.twitter.com/yJQmMYWvMv — Big West Conference (@BigWestSports) November 12, 2019

His collegiate success caught the eye of Major League Soccer and Danny was one of the 40 players invited to the MLS Showcase ahead of the 2020 Super Draft. “It was a great experience to be at the MLS showcase. It was great to represent CSUN and my coaches,” he described. “I felt like I did well and stood out in front of all the coaching staff.” While he didn’t declare for this year’s draft and will return for his senior season, professional soccer is definitely on the agenda in his future. When asked what an MLS club would get if they selected him, Trejo answered, “They will get a player who can score goals and can create chances for the team to score. Most importantly, my leadership skills. I believe I can help a team’s culture and help by bringing a winning mentality. I am a hard worker who likes to lead by example.” Defenders in the Big West would definitely prefer that Daniel Trejo’s name was getting announced tomorrow night in the MLS Super Draft instead of over the PA announcements after scoring a goal against them next season.