With the UCSB Gauchos, he played for 4 years, eventually leading the team to the 2004 Division I Men's College Cup where the Gauchos fell in penalties in the championship game to Indiana University. He was named the 2004 College Cup's Most Outstanding Offensive Player for the tournament.
While at university, McAthy played for two different PDL teams to gain experience and keep fitness throughout the summer. In 2003, he appeared in 9 games and scored 2 goals for Orange County Blue Star alongside UCSB teammate Dan Kennedy.[1] The next season, he played for Cape Cod Crusaders and scored 5 goals with 2 assists in 9 games.[2]
Professional
Upon graduating from UCSB, McAthy was drafted by the Los Angeles Galaxy in the 2nd Round, 19th Overall, of the 2005 MLS Supplemental Draft. McAthy elected not to join up with the Galaxy and was drafted by the Puerto Rico Islanders in the 1st Round, 1st Overall, of the 2005 USL First Division College Draft.[3][4]
McAthy joined the Puerto Rico Islanders and played the 2005 season with them, scoring once in 23 games.[5] He then signed with Portland Timbers the next season.[6] McAthy appeared in 14 games without scoring a goal and was released at the end of the season.[7]