Wake mid Collin Martin signs pro contract

by ESNN

July 10, 2013

After playing one season at Wake Forest, Collin Martin has decided to sign a professional contract with MLS squad D.C. United.

"Being able to play at Wake Forest was great for a young kid like me, and the experience really helped me grow and mature as a person and a player. I had a blast playing at Wake Forest," said Martin. "D.C. United made an offer that I felt I couldn't refuse. It has been a dream of mine to play professional soccer, and the offer they made was too difficult to turn down."

Martin, who graduated early from Bethesda-Chevy Chase High school in Chevy Chase, Md., spent the 2012 season on the field for the Demon Deacons, scoring one goal and leading the team with six assists. He played in all 20 games and made 15 starts en route to earned All-Freshman honors from TopDrawerSoccer.com and the ACC. He also earned All-ACC Academic honors for his success in the classroom.

"It was a privilege to work with Collin for a year, as he was saw him make great strides, not only as a player, but as a person, as well," said Wake Forest head coach Jay Vidovich. "Collin will always be a part of the Wake Forest family, and we wish him the best as he continues a rich tradition of Demon Deacons in the professional ranks."

Before coming to Wake Forest, Martin played for the D.C. United Academy under U-18 head coach Nolan Sheldon. In 2011, he was one of three United midfielders named to the U-15/16 Development Academy Starting XI and had 13 goals to help D.C. win the Mid-Atlantic Division.

Most recently, Martin traveled with the U-20 U.S. Men's National Team to Toulon, France, to play in the Toulon Tournament.

Martin will report to D.C. United immediately.