WILLIAMSBURG, Va. – Former William & Mary goalkeeper
Kieran Baskett signed a professional contract with the Halifax Wanderers FC of the Canadian Premier League. Baskett becomes the 38th Tribe player and seventh goalkeeper to sign a professional contract.
Baskett started all 18 matches and played every minute (1675:41) in goal for the Tribe in 2019. He led the CAA in saves (71), while ranking second in shutouts (3), third in save % (.710) and sixth in goals against average (1.56). Baskett was twice named the CAA Defensive Player of the Week, including after a career-high 11 saves against CAA regular season champion UNCW. He excelled in the classroom as well, being named to the CAA Commissioner's Academic Honor Roll in 2020.
"We are excited for Kieran as he begins this new chapter in his journey," head coach
Chris Norris said. "I know it was an extremely difficult decision for him and his family. Fortunately, it was a decision between two excellent options which allow Kieran to pursue his dreams. While we will certainly miss him, on and off the field, we look forward to following his career closely. He will always be a valued member of our Tribe Men's Soccer family."
Baskett joins Marcel Berry (Harrisburg Heat in the MASL), Phil Breno (Charleston Battery in the USL Championship division), Antonio Bustamante (Club Blooming in Bolivia) and William Eskay (Harrisburg Heat in the MASL) to sign professional contracts over the last three years. Baskett is the ninth player under head coach
Chris Norris.
He also adds to the Tribe's professional linage at the goalkeeper position. Former Tribe standouts Adin Brown, Scott Budnick and Paul Grafer all played in Major League Soccer. Brown enjoyed a lengthy professional career that included six seasons in the MLS and another six in Norway's top division. Phil Breno just wrapped up his second season in the USL with the Charleston Battery.
Last season, Halifax went 3-3-1 in the first stage and 1-1-1 in the group stage of the Premier League. The club suffered a 2-0 setback to Forge FC in the finals.
