Hicksville, NY - January 20, 2015 - Nassau County Executive Edward P. Mangano and County Legislator Rose Walker recognized Tim Parker, a Hicksville High School Graduate, for being drafted to play professional soccer for the Vancouver Whitecaps. Tim, captain of the St. John’s Red Storm soccer team in his senior season, was selected as the 13th overall pick in the 2015 Major League Soccer Draft.

Tim was the first St. John’s player ever to be picked in the first round of the Major League Soccer (MLS) SuperDraft and is the highest Red Storm selection since 2004. Tim earned first team Big East honors in each of his four seasons at St. John's and his leadership and poise on the defensive end gave the Johnnies an opportunity to play in three straight NCAA Tournaments from 2011 to 2013. He also helped lead the team to a Big East Tournament Championship in 2011. Sports professionals consider Tim to be one of the best soccer players in North America today and the Whitecaps will certainly benefit from his youth, athleticism and leadership skills.

“It gives me great pride as Nassau’s County Executive to recognize such a hardworking, talented young athlete,” said County Executive Mangano. “I wish Tim the best of luck and we will all be watching him, when the Whitecaps open up their season on March 7th.”

Pictured with County Executive Mangano are: Nassau County Legislator Rose Walker; Mr. & Mrs. Parker and Tim Parker.