Hempstead, NY - Former Hofstra University center back Sean Nealis has signed a professional contract with the New York Red Bulls of Major League Soccer, it was announced by the club today. Nealis was selected with the first pick of the second round of the MLS Super Draft, 25th overall. 

"I could not be happier for Sean as he embarks on his professional career," said Hofstra Men's Soccer Coach Richard Nuttall. "He is a special player and he deserves everything he achieves. I look forward to following his progress with the Red Bulls." 
 
The 2018 Colonial Athletic Association Defensive Player of the Year and a First Team All-CAA selection, Nealis is the third Hofstra Men's Soccer student-athlete to sign with an MLS team, joining Gary Flood (New England) and Joseph Holland (Houston). 
 
The Massapequa, New York, native anchored a back line that helped the Pride to 11 shutouts on the year, including a program-record eight-match shutout streak midway through the season. Nealis also contributed on the offensive end with two goals and three assists for seven points. 
 
Nealis was also a United Soccer Coaches All-Atlantic Region team selection and a United Soccer Coaches Scholar All-American and a Scholar All-East Region pick in 2018 in addition to being an All-ECAC selection. 
 
During his four years with the Pride, Nealis started 69 of 72 games and recorded four goals and three assists for 11 points.