Wake Forest Athletics
Harkes Inks Homegrown Deal with D.C. United
1/23/2017 12:00:00 AM | Men's Soccer
Wake Forest Athletic Communications (@WakeMSoccer)
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Wake Forest senior Ian Harkes has inked a contract with D.C. United, joining the team as a homegrown player, the organization announced Monday.
Harkes joined the D.C. United youth academy in 2009 and was a captain for both the Under-16 and Under-18 squads. Because he was a member of the organizaton's youth academy, he was not eligible for the MLS Draft.
"We'd like to congratulate Ian on taking the first step into his pro career with D.C. United," Wake Forest head coach Bobby Muuss said. "We're thrilled that he decided to stay stateside and gets to play close to home. While we'll miss his leadership on and off the pitch, we can't wait to watch him succeed throughout what will surely be a successful career."
He becomes the third 2016 Deacon to join an MLS roster, joining Jacori Hayes (Dallas FC) and Alec Ferrell (Minnesota United FC), each of whom was drafted earlier this month.
"We are thrilled to have reached an agreement to sign Ian as a homegrown player," Dave Kasper, United general manager and VP of soccer operations, said in a release. "He has developed into a high-level midfielder who has all the tools to be successful in MLS. We look forward to having Ian back wearing the United badge."
Harkes capped off an illustrious career in Old Gold & Black by winning the MAC Hermann Trophy, given to the top collegiate soccer player in the country.
He became the first player in ACC history to be named the ACC Midfielder of the Year, ACC Championship MVP and NCAA Tournament Most Outstanding Offensive Player in the same season, and was also named the NSCAA Scholar Player of the Year.
"I've known Ian nearly his entire life and have watched him develop into one of the nation's best young talents." Ben Olsen, United's head coach, said in the team's release. "He has all the tools to succeed at the next level and I look forward to being a part of his pro career."
The four-year starter served as an anchor of the midfield for his entire career. He made 82 career starts, finishing with nine goals and 18 assists, and four of his five goals this season were game-winners. He led Wake Forest to the title game at the NCAA College Cup for the second time in program history, as well as the team's second-ever ACC Tournament title.
