For Simon Dawkins, 2016 has been a big year. So much has happened for the England-raised Jamaica international in a short space of time — events that would normally take some people a lifetime to experience.

The Jamaica midfielder joined US Major League outfit San Jose Earthquakes from Derby County in England as a designated player, got married and has now become a father.

On Monday, October 4, Dawkins and his wife Melissa welcomed a new member to the family — Leonardo Jax Dawkins. He joins a gaggle of 2016 ‘Quakes’ children.

Captain Chris Wondolowski, defender Andres Imperiale, midfielder Cordell Cato each welcomed the next generation to their families. On October 6, forward Henok Goitom’s family grew to include Selina Malia Goitom. Midfielder Darwin Ceren is also expecting the birth of his daughter Alaia Ceren in the coming month.

“Being a dad is great. It kind of changes you as a man. I think my progression over my years has been stepping up every time,” Dawkins said. “Now being a dad is something I hope matures me on the field, as well as in my personal life.”

Dawkins, who has been capped some 19 times for the Reggae Boyz, originally came to the ‘Quakes’ for the 2011 and 2012 seasons on loan from Tottenham Hotspur, but rejoined on a full transfer on January 6, 2016, from Derby.

So far this season, Dawkins has scored five goals and notched two assists. One of those goals was the second most seismic moment in team history.

Of course, it took some time for Dawkins to get used to MLS style of play and the chemistry with the team. During the first five- and-a-half months during the season, Dawkins scored just one goal.

“I felt like it took me a little while to get going. I think that was a bit expected coming back here, getting to know the players again and also playing again. I feel like I have hit some form now and I am hoping it can continue,” said the 28-year-old.

In the past month and a half, he has scored four goals, including the game-winning goal against Vancouver on August 12, in which the Quakes defeated the Canadian side on the road.

“I know we only have three more games left of the regular season, but I am hoping we can get some results there and move on,” Dawkins said. “Hopefully next season, I am progressing even more.”