Bobby Shuttleworth Signed By New England Revolution
7/2/2009 12:00:00 AM | Men's Soccer
BUFFALO, NY – University at Buffalo men's soccer goalkeeper Bobby Shuttleworth has decided to forgo his senior season and has signed with the New England Revolution of the MLS. Major League Soccer is the highest level of professional soccer in the United States.
"We are very excited for Bobby and the opportunity he has been given in New England," said head coach John Astudillo. "Bobby had an outstanding career for us, helping us win a lot of matches, and I know he will have an outstanding career at the next level."
Shuttleworth joins the Revolution after a brief stint with the Austin Aztex of USL-1. Shuttleworth had to clear through waivers at both the USL and MLS level before being signed by the Revolution.
"We're pleased to add Bobby to our roster," Revolution Vice President of Player Personnel Michael Burns said. "We have watched him work and we believe he can develop further with our coaching staff."
Shuttleworth is the first UB player to make an MLS roster, but not the first to train with an MLS team. Andrae Clarke had an opportunity with the Chicago Fire, while Dan Gwyther trained with D.C. United. Two years ago Sola Abolaji was drafted first overall in the USL College Player Draft by the Carolina RailHawks. Dan Stevens spent some time with the Philadelphia Kixx of the National Indoor Soccer League.
"This is another outstanding moment for the University at Buffalo men's soccer team," said Astudillo. "It shows how well we have played with Bobby the last few years and how good our conference is overall to be getting players to the MLS level consistently."
With the departure of Shuttleworth, the Bulls will look to Robert Taylor and Nick Fettermanas goalkeepers for the upcoming season.
"Robert and Nick will have every opportunity to fight for the starting goalkeeper position for the upcoming season and I think it will be a great competition," said Astudillo. "They have both put in a lot of hard work and they deserve this opportunity."
