SAN ANTONIO – San Antonio FC of the United Soccer League (USL) announced the signing of former Elon men’s soccer alum Austin Dunker(Southeast Guilford High School) ’14 to its club on Friday, March 18.
Dunker becomes the third Phoenix alum to join the club and rejoins former Elon and current San Antonio FC head coach Darren Powell, who Dunker played under from 2011-13. Recent Elon graduates Miguel Salazar ’15 and Sam McBride ’15 also signed with the team earlier this year.
“I’m really pleased for Austin,” said Powell. “He has had a really good preseason on trial for us. He gives us options down the left-hand side of defense and midfield. I’m very familiar with his personality and his character and I am happy that he is a part of SAFC.”
Dunker was a four-year starter with the Phoenix playing primarily at left outside back. During his time at Elon, Dunker appeared in 83 matches, starting 81, and helped the Phoenix to three consecutive conference tournament championships, a conference regular-season title and three straight strips to the NCAA Tournament.
Dunker earned a spot on the Southern Conference All-Freshman team and was a second team All-SoCon pick in 2013. He was also on the SoCon All-Tournament team in 2013 and was named the to the Top Drawer Soccer National Team of the Week that year. After graduation, Dunker spent time with the Seattle Sounders U-23 side (PDL) and also played with the Carolina Dynamo (PDL).
“I couldn’t be more excited to join San Antonio FC,” said Dunker. “This is a great city and one that is passionate about its soccer. I want to thank management and the coaching staff for the opportunity to be a part of something special.”