April 10, 2008

Stony Brook, N.Y. - Michael Palacio '08 and Chris Megaloudis '06 have signed contracts with Red Bull New York of Major League Soccer, the team announced last week. Palacio and Megaloudis are two of six players recently signed by the Red Bulls, who are in their 13th year of existence. Matt Avellino '08 also has inked a professional deal, signing with the Wilmington Hammerheads of the United Soccer League's Second Division.

" I'm extremely proud of Mike, Chris and Matt for their hard work and dedication to our program," head men's soccer coach Cesar Markovic said. "They will always be remembered for being an important part of the championship run in 2005. Now they continue to represent Stony Brook on a bigger stage as professional athletes. I think it's a great reflection of the type of players that are coming out of our Men's Soccer program."

Palacio finished his storied career as Stony Brook's all-time assists leader. As a three-time first team all-America East selection, Palacio amassed 14 goals and 26 assists as the Seawolves won the America East title and advanced to second round of the NCAA College Cup in 2005.

Megaloudis was a two-time NSCAA All-Region and all-conference selection for Stony Brook. He totaled 15 goals and 12 assists in just two years for the Seawolves after transferring from St. Peter's College. As a member of the Puerto Rico National Team, Megaloudis scored a goal against Trinidad and Tobago this past January.

Avellino capped a solid career at Stony Brook after transferring from St. John's University. In his first year at Stony Brook, Avellino was the only member to start all 22 games during the run to the NCAA College Cup with two goals and an assist. In 2008, Avellino scored the golden goal just a minute into overtime to beat Vermont, 1-0.