Wake Forest senior center back Kevin Politz signed a homegrown contract with the New York Red Bulls, the club announced this week.

A four-year starter for the ACC power, Politz made 71 appearances during his four years with the Demon Deacons. The ACC Defensive Player of the Year in 2017, he helped Wake Forest to more than 40 shutouts over the length of his collegiate career.

"I am really excited to continue my soccer career with the New York Red Bulls," Politz said in a press release. "I have been a part of their academy for many years now and to sign a homegrown contract is truly a blessing. I cannot thank my Wake Forest coaching staff, trainers and teammates enough for everything they have done for me over the past four years preparing me for this opportunity. I will always cherish the memories I have made at Wake Forest."

The defender was an accomplished student in the classroom, finishing with a 3.94 GPA as a mathematical business major and computer science minor. During his time with the Red Bulls Academy, Politz won the U.S. Soccer Development Academy National Championship in 2012 and 2013, along with competing for the team's U23 side in the Premier Development League.