BERKELEY – A dream was realized for recent California graduate Nick Lima as he signed with the San Jose Earthquakes of Major League Soccer as a Homegrown Player on Wednesday, the team announced.

Lima, who is the second member in Earthquake's history to join as a Homegrown Player, graduated in December from Cal after an impressive individual season where he earned his second nod as a NSCAA/NCAA All-Far West Region First Team member and All-Pac-12 selection.

"Nick signing with his hometown San Jose Earthquakes is an incredible accomplishment," said Cal head coach Kevin Grimes. "He has always wanted to be a professional player since we started recruiting him in high school.  Our entire program is really happy that he has achieved his dream. 

"Our insistence on playing high quality soccer has really pushed Nick's limits and taken his game to another level.  There is no doubt that Dominic Kinnear and MLS competition will further his growth and development.  His upside is still in front of him which makes this even more special."

The Castro Valley, Calif., native, played with the Earthquakes academy and for the affiliate Burlingame Dragons in the PDL prior to joining the Golden Bears. He finished his collegiate career making 72 appearances, scoring six goals and tallying nine assists.

During his senior campaign he earned Pac-12 Player of the Week recognition after leading a comeback win over Penn State in a two-goal performance.

Lima joins 2010 Cal graduate and goalkeeper David Bingham on the Quakes.