It’s been a fantasy ride for Bill Hamid these past few months, but it’s also been a period of growth as a player and mostly as a young man.

It started this summer, when, not far removed from playing in the U18 U.S. Development League national finals for D.C. United, he joined the Discover Europe team that toured Austria, Germany and Belgium while playing against world-class clubs.

Competing with teammates like Ryan Metts, Harrison Petts, Josh Gatt, Zach Barnes, Blake Wise and Soony Saad, Hamid was a clear standout and drew interest from European clubs.

That interest was just as fervent here in the States where Hamid was catching the eye of D.C. United’s MLS senior club. He was approached by the club during the academy playoffs and the discussions came to fruition in early September when Hamid became a professional by inking with the team.

“When I finally got that jersey the day of the press conference it was just a big relief,” said Hamid, who was doubly excited to be joining D.C. because he grew up in the Virginia area. “Growing up in the area and following the team since I was young – it just made me happy. Very happy.”

Hamid, who is currently practicing with the team until the club’s official break Dec. 5, spent the last two months of the regular season training alongside the likes of Luciano Emillo and Jaime Moreno on a day-to-day basis.

In that short span of time Hamid learned as much from the bench as he ever could’ve from the pitch. And so much of what he realized had little to do with his in-game performance.

“I’ve basically grown up. I’ve learned professionalism and what that means on and off the field,” Hamid said. “I’ve learned how to talk to people and show respect – just being professional in everything that I do.

“I’ve just been sitting back watching and learning. I’m happy to have the opportunity and thankful for them giving me the chance. I’m just working hard to step on the field.”

Amidst the jubilation of becoming a professional and all that has come with it, Hamid was presented with yet another long-awaited opportunity.

In October, he was invited to train with the U.S. Men’s National team where he got the chance to rub shoulders with Tim Howard in an experience he could barely describe.

“On the day I heard I was invited I saw that I had missed a bunch of calls. When I checked my voicemail I wanted to tear up in my room,” Hamid said. “When I stepped on the field I looked around and saw guys who play for West Ham and A.C. Milan, and I was on the same field with them. You’re behind the goal watching and you just don’t want to mess up.”

Hamid now has his eye towards making a name for himself and earning playing time for D.C. United. So he’ll train, work hard and continue to be receptive to the lessons life has brought his way.

“My main goal is to lose pounds and get stronger and faster; show that I’m dedicated and be ready to do my thing,” Hamid said. “This is the beginning of a long road for me – I have many more years of this.

“What can you do but work every day and hope opportunities come your way?”