Late last week, the New York Cosmos of the North American Soccer League officially announced the signing of former standout Crusader goalkeeper Kyle Zobeck.

Zobeck, who was selected by FC Dallas in the second round of the 2013 MLS Supplemental Draft, was invited to go on trial with the Cosmos during their preseason exhibition tour in Dubai. While on trial, the Crusader Alum put together an impressive performance and was offered a contract shortly after returning stateside. According to the team’s website, Zobeck will be looked upon to provide competition and depth at the goalkeeping position for the Cosmos.

For Crusader fans this signing comes as no surprise, as fans were routinely made witness to Zobeck’s quality during his time at Valparaiso. Perhaps the most successful goalkeeper in program history, Zobeck finished his career as the program’s all-time leader in both goals against average (0.92) and shutouts (23). In 2011, he set single season records in both goals against (0.66) and shutouts (11), earning him the honor of being named Horizon League Goalkeeper of the Year. Zobeck was again selected as the Horizon League Goalkeeper of the year in 2012 after keeping five clean sheets and a 0.81 GAA.

Zobeck not only joins the current NASL Champion, but one of the most recognizable soccer brands in the world. At their peak, the Cosmos transformed soccer in America, signing world-class players including international legends Pelé and Franz Beckenbauer. History shows that the rise of the Cosmos marked the rise of soccer in America, and in signing with the club Zobeck is now a part of that history.