Aug. 17, 2010

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Conor Shanosky, who signed a national letter of intent to play for the George Mason men's soccer team in the fall, has decided to forgo his college career and sign a professional contract with D.C. United of the MLS. Shanosky was a member of D.C. United's Under-18 Academy Team prior to signing the contract.

"We are very happy for Conor. Conor and his family have made a life-altering decision, one that is quite exciting," said George Mason men's soccer head coach Greg Andrulis. "When we started the recruiting process with Conor, his club coaches Eddie Beach and Mark Ryan from the Great Falls Soccer Club were very enthusiastic about the potential that he had.

"It is amazing what can happen in less than a year in the development of a young player. Conor is beginning to realize that potential. We wish Conor the very best as he pursues his dream to be a professional player with D.C. United."

Shanosky, a defensive midfielder, becomes the third player to make the jump from United's Academy to the senior squad, following midfielder Andy Najar and goalkeeper Bill Hamid. Shanosky will train with United's first team; however, he will not be eligible for selection until the 2011 season.

"We are pleased to have signed Conor as our third homegrown Academy player. Conor has made tremendous strides in the past year both with D.C. United, and with his recent play with the U.S. U-20 National Team," said United General Manager Dave Kasper. "He is tactically a very astute player, is excellent technically, and is extremely committed and dedicated to becoming a successful professional. We look forward to his long-term future with our club."

A native of Sterling, Va., Shanosky played for Potomac Falls High School while rising quickly through United's Academy ranks since joining the club in early 2009. During his noteworthy high school career with Potomac Falls, Shanosky acquired numerous accolades including 2009 All-State, All-Region, and All-District honors.

Shanosky captained United's U-18 side in 2010 and, for his efforts, was called into Thomas Rongen's United States Under-20 side for the Milk Cup in Northern Ireland. The United States defeated the host nation in this prestigious competition, with Shanosky starting the first two matches of the tournament against China and Norway. In the Milk Cup final, Shanosky came on as a substitute and made his impact felt in the United States' triumph.