January 22, 2013
A UNION SUPPLEMENT
Philly drafts Stony Brook's Fernandes

Photo courtesy of Stony Brook SID

Stony Brook midfielder Leonardo Fernandes was taken by the Philadelphia Union as the 62nd overall pick of the MLS supplemental draft on Tuesday afternoon.

Fernandes, the 2012 BigAppleSoccer.com men's college player of the year, enjoyed a memorable season for the Seawolves.

The North Babylon, N.Y. resident became the America East conference’s first-ever three-time midfielder of the year as he became the the second player to win any major award three years in a row (2010-2012).

In December, the one-time B.W. Gottschee standout became the first Seawolves player honored as a National Soccer Coaches Association of America All-American, with a second team selection.

Fernandes, who played for the Brooklyn Knights, was ranked second among conference leaders in points (22), tied for third in goals (8) and was second in assists (6).

"We are very excited for Leo and his opportunity," Stony Brook coach Ryan Anatol said. "He has earned it. We wish him all the best."

Serving as the focal point of an offense that ranked second in conference scoring at 1.69 goals per match, Fernandes earned AE player of the week honors on Sept. 17 and BigAppleSoccer.com men's college player of the week recognition for the week ending Sept. 30. He also was named to the AE championship all-tournament team.