UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. – Former Penn State men's soccer players Liam Butts, Peter Mangione and Kris Shakes all have signed professional contracts with soccer clubs in the MLS and USL.
Butts signed with MLS NEXT Pro club New England Revolution II on Feb. 21. In his five-year career as a Nittany Lion, Butts played in 72 matches and scored 25 goals. In 2019, he scored five game winning goals – the most in the Big Ten at the time.
"We are very pleased for Liam that he will have the chance to start his professional career with New England Revolution II," said head coach Jeff Cook. "During his time at Penn State, Liam showed that when at his best, he has the potential to be a high impact player at the next level. We wish him every success in New England and look forward to following his successes."
The forward scored the lone goal in New England's 1-1 draw against Orlando City B in a preseason friendly earlier this month. The Revolution will kick off their season March 24 against Philadelphia Union II.
Mangione signed with MLS NEXT Pro club FC Cincinnati 2 on Feb. 27. Totaling 78 points as a Nittany Lion, Mangione had a stellar senior campaign leading the Big Ten with 10 goals and 24 points. For his performance, the Hunt Valley, Md. native was named Big Ten Offensive Player of the Year for the second consecutive year as well as first team All-Big Ten.
"We are so happy for Peter to have signed his first professional contract with FC Cincinnati," said Cook. "His relentless pursuit of excellence while he was at Penn State has prepared him well for this opportunity."
Mangione ended his four-year career with 31 goals which ranks him 13th all-time in program history.
"I have every confidence that Peter's qualities as a soccer player, his work ethic and his commitment to his own development will serve him well as he reaches new heights with one of the most exciting clubs in Major League Soccer. Good luck, Peter. We are very proud of you!"
The Orange and Blue will begin their season March 17 against Chicago Fire II.
Shakes signed with USL club New Mexico United on Feb. 27. Shakes played in 73 games in his five-year career with the Nittany Lions. He collected 21 career shut outs, which ranks fifth all-time in program history. He also registered 273 saves which is third in program history.
"Penn State enjoys a rich tradition of standout goalkeepers," said Cook. "Kris deserves his place among the very best that played for the Nittany Lions. I'm so delighted that he has earned a contract with New Mexico United. I feel this is a great place for him to start a journey as a professional player. We are very proud of Kris, and very grateful for all his contributions to our program. Good luck! We can't wait to follow your success in New Mexico."
New Mexico will open their season against the Pittsburgh River hounds Saturday, March 9.
The trio will join Femi Awodesu to the list of former Nittany Lions who have signed professional contracts this preseason.
