Former Stony Brook midfielder Matt Avellino of Merrick, L.I. has signed a pro contract with the Wilmington Hammerheads of the United Soccer League’s Second Division.

Avellino became the second area college player to sign with Wilmington, following in the footsteps of New York University midfielder Jeritt Thayer.

He joined former Stony Brook players Mike Palacio and Chris Megaloudis, both former Eastern New York ODP selections, turning pro. They recent signed with the Red Bulls.

"I'm extremely proud of Mike, Chris and Matt for their hard work and dedication to our program,” Stony Brook coach Cesar Markovic said. “They will always be remembered for being an important part of the championship run in 2005. Now they continue to represent Stony Brook on a bigger stage as professional athletes. I think it's a great reflection of the type of players that are coming out of our men's soccer program.”
Avellino capped a solid career at Stony Brook after transferring from St. John’s University. In his first year at Stony Brook, Avellino was the only player to start all 22 games during the run to the NCAA Division I tournament with two goals and an assist. In 2008, Avellino scored the golden goal a minute into overtime en route to a 1-0 win over Vermont.

A four-year letter winner as a midfield-forward at Calhoun High School, Avellino collected 34 goals and 42 assists.