Charlotte Eagles Professional Soccer announced today the transfer of former UCLA standout Steve Shak from the Virginia Beach Mariners of the USL First Division. The announcement marks the first major signing for the Eagles who open up their season at home on April 20^th against Crystal Palace Baltimore.

A native of Cerritos, California, Shak played for four years at UCLA, leading the Bruins to the 1997 NCAA Championship. In 1998, he was named a candidate for the Hermann Trophy (NCAA National Player of the Year) as a junior. While a member of the 1999 U.S. Under-23 National Team, he appeared in all six matches when the team took home the bronze medal at the Pan American Games.

After a successful collegiate career, Shak was the number one pick in the 2000 Major League Soccer Draft by the New York/New Jersey Metrostars. His rookie year, he played in 23 games scoring one goal and one assist. He was traded to Colorado in 2001 and played in five games before being loaned to the USL First Division Minnesota Thunder in mid-2002. He left Minnesota at the end of 2003 for Boden BK in Sweden, before signing with the Virginia Beach Mariners in 2004. The 29 year old midfielder enjoyed 3 seasons with the Mariners where he was captain of the team during the 2006 season.

The Virginia Beach Mariners will undoubtedly miss Shak's presence on the field, but the organization was clear today that there are no hard feelings amidst this unique transfer. "Shak has been an integral part of the Mariners for the past few years, and as team captain, he set an excellent example for his teammates. He and his family will be missed at the Sportsplex and in the community, but we wish them much success in Charlotte", stated Melissa Bryant of the Mariners.

The decision to move from the 1^st Division with the Mariners to the 2^nd Division in Charlotte was not an easy choice for Shak, but it was something he felt called to do. "I'd like to thank the Virginia Beach Mariners for the past three seasons,' said Shak in a public statement made today. "It's been a pleasure representing the organization as a player and as a coach in youth soccer.  I've developed some very strong relationships with the people in Hampton Roads and will miss them greatly.  However, I am very excited about the opportunity to work with the Charlotte Eagles and I thank the Mariners for willingly allowing the move to happen.  The decision of our family to move to Charlotte is one that comes with great joy.  The Charlotte Eagles are an organization that is about more than a game of soccer.  The fact that it is a professional organization with a mission to bring hope and life to people through the Gospel makes it a very unique club to be a part of, and I'm excited about that.  I have grown so much as a Christian the past few years that I realized I needed to use my gifts as a player, and a coach to glorify God and to thank Him for what he has done in my life. I have a lot to be thankful for.  The decision to move my family to Charlotte is about more than the game; it's about life. For me to have the ability to share the message of God's love for all people through the sport of soccer is both awesome and exciting."

In addition to playing an integral role in leading the Eagles as a player and assistant coach, Shak will also play a major role in the organization's community and church partnerships. The Eagles and GM Tom Engstrom will not only benefit from Shak's talent and leadership on the field, but also his passion and dedication to the community.

"We are pleased to have a player and assistant coach of Steve Shak's ability, experience and character', stated Engstrom. "We are equally excited for Steve's commitment to the ministry and mission of the Charlotte Eagles.  We also appreciate the Virginia Beach Mariners' willingness to facilitate the transfer to accommodate Steve's desire to pursue a career in sports ministry."

The 2006 USL-2 Finalist opens their 15^th Anniversary Season on April 20^th against Crystal Palace Baltimore at Waddell Stadium. Kick-off is set for 7pm. The match will also be a milestone for Crystal Palace Baltimore as it marks the inaugural match for the English-owned franchise in the USL. Season tickets and individual tickets are now on sale at www.CharlotteEagles.com.