UNCW Soccer Star Jake Shannon Signs Pro Contract with New England Revolution II

WILMINGTON,North Carolina – University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW) men’s soccer standout defender Jake Shannon will begin his professional career with New England Revolution II in the 2026 season,the club announced on Monday .Shannon’s signing marks a notable step for the decorated athlete, who excelled both on the field and in the classroom during his time with the Seahawks.

Academic and Athletic Achievements at UNCW

Shannon completed his degree in Business Governance with a remarkable 3.80 GPA last semester and was recognized as a 2025 Academic All-American Second Teamer in December . His dedication to academics is matched by his athletic prowess,earning him four All-Coastal Athletic Association selections,including a First Team nod in 2025.

Dominant Performance on the Field

as the 2025 CAA Co-Defender of the Year, Shannon anchored a strong UNCW backline, playing every minute of all 16 games last fall . He contributed significantly to the team’s defensive record, helping secure three shutouts while also adding three goals, including a crucial game-winner against Charleston, and two assists.

A Four-Year Legacy with the Seahawks

Shannon’s four-year collegiate career at UNCW was nothing short of exceptional. He started in all but one contest since joining the team in 2022,captaining the Seahawks and leading them to three CAA Tournament appearances,including a memorable run to the CAA Finals .He currently ranks fourth in program history with 6,219 minutes played.

Joining a Familiar Face at New England Revolution II

At New England Revolution II, Shannon will have the possibility to work with Brad Knighton, a UNCW Athletic Hall of Famer who serves as the team’s Goalkeeper Coach . This connection provides a smooth transition for Shannon as he embarks on his professional journey.

About new England Revolution II

Founded in 2019, New England Revolution II is the growth team for Major League Soccer’s New England Revolution. The team initially competed in USL League one before joining the MLS NEXT Pro league in 2022 . They play their home games at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough.

Jake Shannon: Career Accolades

• 2025 College Sports Communicators Academic all-America Second Team
• 2025 CAA Co-Defender of the Year
• Four-Time All-CAA Selection
  • First Team (2025)
  • Third Team (2022-24)
• 2025 United Soccer Coaches All-Atlantic Region First Team
• 2022 CAA All-Rookie Team
• 2022 TopDrawerSoccer Freshmen Best XI Second Team
• 2022 TopDrawerSoccer Year-End Freshmen Top 100 List (No. 20)
• 2022 TopDrawerSoccer Midseason Freshmen Top 100 List (No. 34)
• Fourth-most Minutes Played in UNCW Men’s Soccer History (6,219)
• Seven-Time UNCW Dean’s List
• Eight-Time CAA Commissioner’s Academic Honor Roll