KNIGHTON TO SIGN PACT WITH REVOLUTION
WILMINGTON, N.C. - Following in the footsteps of his collegiate coach and mentor, former UNC Wilmington goalkeeper Brad Knighton plans to sign a contract in the next few days with the Major League Soccer's New England Revolution, becoming the first Seahawk to earn a spot on an MLS roster.
The Richmond, Va., native, who recently completed a stellar four-year career for the Seahawks, learned over the weekend from team officials that they would offer him a contract. He traveled with the club to Bermuda last week for a preseason camp, playing a part in a 3-1 exhibition victory over Bermuda Select, and suiting up against the L.A. Galaxy.
Before departing the resort island, Knighton was approached by the Revolution's brass about signing a contract with the club. His coach at UNCW,
Aidan Heaney, was a goalkeeper for the Revolution in the team's first season in 1996.
"The coaches and staff came up to me in the airport and I was very nervous," said Knighton. "I've been working since I was five years old for this. I'm very pleased and blessed to be given this opportunity. All of the hard work has paid off."
Knighton will be assigned to New England's developmental team, but will practice with the senior squad. He enters the season as the No. 3 goalie behind U.S. National Team keeper Matt Reis and Doug Warren. In the end, Knighton had to beat out former Clemson star and U17 National Team member Phil Marfuggi for the slot.
"It's going to be exciting," Knighton said. "We have two weeks of training here and then leave for Cancun for nine days. After that, we'll go to New Orleans for five days. It's a great opportunity to get my feet wet."
Knighton was named to the National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA) All-South Atlantic Region Second-Team after leading the Seahawks to their fourth consecutive trip to the Colonial Athletic Association Tournament.
Knighton, who also earned First-Team All-CAA honors, helped power the Seahawks to their fourth straight 10-win season, while setting school marks with 24 career shutouts and a 1.07 goals against average. The Seahawks' stingy defense allowed just 16 goals this season.
Knighton set a school record with a career-low 0.83 GAA in 2006-07 that ranked him third in the league. He also ranked among the conference leaders in save percentage (4th, .818), saves (5th, 72) and shutouts (3rd, 6).
"He's hungry and he wants it," said Heaney. "Obviously, he's done very well for himself to get this opportunity. He will continue to work hard and take advantage of it. He reads the game very well and has a good understanding of when things are about to happen. Brad is very good with his feet and has good range on crosses."
