Feb. 14, 2011
HOUSTON, TX--Old Dominion University All-CAA and All-Region goalkeeper Evan Newton (Virginia Beach, VA.) has signed with the Houston Dynamo of the MLS. Houston selected Newton in the first round of the Supplemental Draft last month.
"I am thrilled to play for this organization," said Newton who is on his way to Phoenix and Orlando for six pre-season matches. "It was mine for the taking during the pre-season workouts, and they offered me a contract at the end of last week. Playing at the next level is what I have been working towards since I started playing soccer. "
Newton will join former Monarch standouts Carlos Mendes (Ny/NJ Red Bull), Nane Joseph (Toronto FC) and Two-time CAA Defender of the Year David Horst (Real Salt Lake) on current MLS rosters.
Newton completed the season with six shutouts, 74 saves and a 1.07 goals against average this year forODU. He helped lead the Monarchs to a 10-7-2 record and advanced to the NCAA College Cup's second round after beatingdefending national champion Virginia, 1-0 in Charlottesville in the first round. Itwas the Monarchs seventh NCAA tournament appearance in the last nine years, all to the second round.
Newton is ODU's all-time leader in both saves with 254 and career shutouts with 36. He was also namedFirst team All-CAA and second team NSCAA All-South Atlantic Region. Newton graduated in DecemberWith a degree in Sports Management.
"We are delighted for Evan in achieving his lifelong dream," said ODU head coach Alan Dawson. "He hasTransitioned well into the professional game and I am sure he will have a long and successful career."
The Dynamo's 2011 MLS regular season opener is scheduled for Saturday, March 19 against the Philadelphia Union at Robertson Stadium.
The Houston Dynamo are a Major League Soccer club that has won two MLS Cup championships in its first five seasons and represented the United States in international competition four consecutive years from 2007-10. For more information, log on to www.HoustonDynamo.com or call (713) 276-7500.