Jake Shannon, a standout defender from the University of North Carolina Wilmington, has etched his name into the program’s history with a career total of 6,219 minutes on the pitch, placing him fourth all‑time in minutes played for the Seahawks.
Born and raised in Apex, North Carolina, Shannon’s affinity for soccer began on a modest backyard field at the age of four, a passion that would later guide him to one of the nation’s most competitive collegiate programs.
Choosing UNCW and Building a Legacy
When the time came for college decisions, Shannon was drawn to UNCW not only for its reputation for athletic excellence but also for the Calvin Lane Soccer Alumni SAA Endowed Scholarship, which offered both financial support and a pathway to academic growth. He pursued a degree in business analytics, balancing rigorous coursework with a demanding training schedule.
During his tenure with the Seahawks, Shannon earned four All‑CAA honors, captained the side in his senior year, and contributed to the Student Athletic Advisory Committee. His on‑field consistency translated into multiple accolades, including the 2025 CAA Co‑Defender of the Year, a spot on the 2025 United Soccer Coaches All‑Atlantic Region First Team, and recognition as a 2025 College Sports Communicators Academic All‑America Second Team selection.
A Dream Realized
The culmination of years of dedication arrived when Shannon signed a contract with Major League Soccer’s NEXT Pro franchise New England Revolution II. The move marks the realization of a lifelong dream and underscores the effectiveness of UNCW’s soccer development pipeline.
Reflecting on his journey, Shannon has urged young athletes to trust in their abilities and commit to continuous improvement, a philosophy that has guided him from Apex’s modest fields to the professional stage.