Reggae Boyz goalkeeper and captain Andre Blake is hungry for more success after recently surpassing the 300-game milestone with Major League Soccer (MLS) outfit Philadelphia Union.
Blake, 34, reached the significant landmark when he took his place between the sticks in Philadelphia Union’s 4-2 win over Orlando City in their 2025 MLS season opener last weekend. The veteran shot-stopper admitted he was unaware of how close he was to the milestone until his coach mentioned it in a pre-game meeting.
“You know, it’s funny. During our pre-game meeting, the coach asked how many games I had played for the Union. When he said 300, I was honestly surprised because I hadn’t been keeping track,” Blake recalled.
Blake, who has spent his entire professional career at Philadelphia since being drafted in 2014, sees his longevity as a source of inspiration for younger players.
“It’s an incredible feeling, and as I get older, I appreciate it even more. This isn’t something I take for granted. There are so many players who never reach this milestone,” he said.
“I’m just grateful to be in this position, to inspire the younger generation, and to show them that with hard work and consistency, anything is possible,” Blake added.
Over the years, Blake has cemented himself as one of the league’s best goalkeepers. In fact, the Jamaican stalwart has won the MLS Goalkeeper of the Year award three times (2016, 2020, and 2022) and has been named to the MLS Best XI in each of those seasons.
He has also been an MLS All-Star on four occasions and played a crucial role in Philadelphia Union’s triumphs, including three Lamar Hunt US Open Cup victories (2014, 2015, 2018) and the 2020 Supporters' Shield.
Despite his personal accolades, Blake, a jovial personality, remains focused on team success.
“I’ve achieved a lot personally, but my focus remains on winning trophies with my team. Individual accolades are great, but I want more team success to complement them. That’s where my mindset is—doing whatever it takes to help my team lift trophies,” he shared.
Now a seasoned veteran, Blake credits his continued drive to his growth on and off the field, as well as the support of his two young sons.
“I’ve matured a lot, both on and off the field. Every year, I focus on growth, pushing myself to take that next step and never getting complacent. Consistency is key for me, always finding ways to improve and maximize my potential,” he said.
“My boys are a big part of my motivation. They watch my games, and when I go home, they challenge me. They’ll ask why I conceded a goal, and I have to answer to them. Their happiness when I win drives me to keep going,” Blake ended.