West Chester native Zach Zandi is now a professional soccer player after he recently signed a contract with the Bethlehem Steel, the Philadelphia Union’s affiliate in the United Soccer League, writes Jonathan Tannenwald for the Philadelphia Inquirer.

The Henderson High School graduate recently finished his college career at Villanova, where he led the Wildcats in scoring last fall with seven goals and three assists and earned second-team All-Big East honors.

“We look forward to getting him started with Bethlehem and fostering an opportunity for him to continue his development in a professional environment,” said Ernst Tanner, the Union’s sporting director.

Zandi, a midfielder, has trained with the Steel before as a member of Reading United, an amateur team. His coach there, Stephen Hogan, is currently an assistant at Bethlehem.

Hogan praised Zandi, saying that he was a vital part of Reading’s success.

“He definitely has the work rate off the ball that we need, and we are very excited to see him develop,” said Hogan.

Read more about Zach Zandi in the Philadelphia Inquirer by clicking here.