Wes Knight signs with Vancouver Whitecaps FC of the MLS

VANCOUVER, British Columbia - Former College of Charleston men's soccer player Wes Knight has signed a professional contract with Vancouver Whitecaps FC of Major League Soccer (MLS).

Knight, 24, moves to MLS after two productive seasons with Whitecaps FC in the United Soccer Leagues First Division (USL-1). The Easley, S.C., native, was a popular defender and  earned the club's 'Fan Favourite' award in 2010 with his dependable performances in Vancouver's defensive backline while also providing an attacking threat on the right flank with his crosses and long throw-ins.

Knight was also a finalist for the 2009 USL-1 Rookie of the Year award. He finished the regular season as the USL-1's joint-assist leader alongside former 'Caps teammate Ricardo Sanchez, having tallied eight assists during his rookie campaign. During his two seasons with Vancouver, Knight started in 69 of his 72 appearances and earned 10 assists.

Knight played for CofC from 2005-08 and appeared in 84 matches for the Cougars and recorded seven assists and two goals. He was named to the 2008 All-Southern Conference First Team as well as the second team in 2007.

Per club policy, terms of the contract were not disclosed.