By Russell Stiger Jr. | OBSERVER Staff

  • Da’vian Kimbrough gets ready to come on in the 87′ minute of Sunday’s home game against Las Vegas Lights. Russell Stiger Jr., OBSERVER
  • Da’vian Kimbrough on the field 88′ minute of Sunday’s home game against Las Vegas Lights. Russell Stiger Jr., OBSERVER
  • Da’vian Kimbrough shakes Forward Zeiko Lewis’ hand after making his debut at Sunday’s home game against Las Vegas Lights. Russell Stiger Jr., OBSERVER
  • Da’vian Kimbrough poses for picture with family. Russell Stiger Jr., OBSERVER

If you didn’t already know Da’vian Kimbrough was 13, you couldn’t tell as he made history Sunday afternoon at Heart Health Park.

The 5-11 forward looked calm, cool and collected as he entered in the 87th minute and, at 13 years 7 months and 13 days, became the youngest professional soccer player in United States history.

Da’Vian, who signed more than a month ago after developing in the Sacramento Republic Academy, looked the part as he took the pitch in Republic FC’s 2-0 victory over Las Vegas. His link-up play was decisive and precise in the few moments he had on the ball.

With a thriving youth program, Republic FC are making it a point to develop local talent and Sacramento’s soccer culture.

Axel Kei, who was 13 years, 9 months and 9 days when he signed with the Real Monarchs in 2021, had held the record.

Republic FC won on the strength of two second-half goals, one from forward Luther Archimede in the 74th minute. They have one more home game Saturday, Oct. 14, against Miami FC before the playoffs start.