INDIANAPOLIS - Former IUPUI men's soccer standout Eduardo Cortes recently inked his first professional contract, signing with Saint Louis FC of the United Soccer League (USL). Saint Louis FC is the official affiliate of the Chicago Fire. 

Cortes had a stellar four years in goal at IUPUI, earning four straight All-Summit League awards, including first team ballots in 2012 and 2015. He earned Third Team NSCAA All-Great Lakes Region honors this past season with a 1.51 goals against average and 95 saves in more than 1,600 minutes of action. He closed his career with 354 saves in his 61 appearances (60 starts) while registering more than 5,600 minutes of action. 

He was the 2012 Summit League Goalkeeper of the Year after registering 98 saves and a 1.34 GAA in 16 starts. 

"We're very happy for (Cortes)," IUPUI Head Coach Isang Jacob said. "We've known all along that he's a professional caliber player. He's undersized for the position, but knows how to play the position at a professional level. His organizing, athleticism and distribution are his best qualities and he understands that. He just wants the chance to compete and showcase his skills. 

"I think his having the opportunity to continue in a professional training environment will continue to help him."

A Mexico-native, Cortes played for FC Dallas Academy before coming to IUPUI in 2012. He had a tryout with the Indy Eleven during their preseason and has international opportunities, but ultimately decided to sign with Saint Louis FC. Cortes is the third goalie on Saint Louis' roster alongside Ryan Thompson (Kingston, Jamaica) and Mark Pais (St. Louis, Mo.).