FULLERTON, Calif. --- Sammy McKay will be well equipped for Biola's planned transition into the NCAA Division II and the PacWest Conference, as the sophomore comes to Biola Men's Soccer after one season at the Academy of Art in San Francisco.
 
McKay is a center back/right back who hopes to make an immediate impact for Head Coach Todd Elkins, just like he did with the Urban Knights in 2014, when he led the team in minutes played as a freshman.
 
He was one of just two players to appear in all 18 games for AAU in 2014. He started 17 of them and accumulated his team-leading 1,5898 minutes on the pitch, which was more than 215 more minutes than any other player. He had one assist and only received one yellow card throughout the season.
 
"Sammy brings experience to our defensive unit after earning and keeping a starting position at Academy of Art," said Elkins. "He has good size and athleticism, which will combine with a competitive edge he brings to the game."
 
Prior to his time in the Bay Area, McKay was a local star, playing at Fullerton Union High School and dominating the Freeway League. He was twice named the league's top defensive player, earned All-CIF first team honors, all-country second team honors and all-league first team marks during his four years with the Buffalos.
 
"I chose Biola because of the music program and the type of community it offers," said McKay. "I think that if you are a Christian, then it is best to immerse yourself in the community that will strengthen your faith."
 
McKay plans to major in music performance with hopes of going on to a career as a professional soccer player and musician.
 
He can be found on Biola's back line at Al Barbour Field beginning this August.