POUGHKEEPSIE, N.Y. - Krystian Witkowski, Marist's much heralded men's soccer player took the next step in his career when he was selected by the Philadelphia Union of Major League Soccer on Tuesday afternoon in the league's Supplemental Draft. A three-time NSCAA All-Region and All-MAAC honoree, Witkowski was chosen 13^th in the second round. This is the first time in program history that a Red Fox has been drafted in to the MLS.

"I am so excited, this is such a great honor. I would like to thank everyone who got me here, especially Coach Viggiano, my fellow seniors Troy, Fred, Lucas, Alex and Tim, my agent Ted, my high school coach Howard Allen, the Nelson Capello Family, Ian McGinisey and my family" said Witkowski moments after hearing the news. "This core of people helped me get to this point and I really appreciate everything they've done."

During his four years on the pitch at Marist, Witkowski scored 21 goals and had assists on 12 for a career total of 54 points. Known for his ball-handling and play-making abilities, Witkowski will now ply his skills with the Philadelphia Union. The Union finished their 2011 season in third place with a 11-8-15 record in the Eastern Conference. Peter Nowak, a decorated player on the international scene, is the head coach of the third-year Philadelphia franchise.

"I am so proud of Krystian. He has given so much to the Marist program over the past four seasons. I can't wait for him to represent Marist in the professional ranks. I wish him nothing but the best and hope that he has a great career. Krystian was a total student-athlete throughout his four years and this is a great way to cap his career" said Head Coach Matt Viggiano, who was with Witkowski as he heard the news in the men's soccer office.