OREM, Utah – Former Utah Valley University soccer standouts Blake Frischknecht and Jaiden Waggoner both made their professional debuts on Saturday after signing contracts with the Las Vegas Lights FC. Lights FC competes in the USL Championship professional soccer league.
 
"To play at the next level takes an incredible amount of commitment, determination, and patience. Both Blake and Jaiden have persevered through this process, in a very difficult time for professional sports, and I couldn't be more proud for the two of them signing their first professional contracts," UVU head coach Greg Maas said. "It's a player's dream to be a professional, and I know our entire staff and team are excited to support them both in the next chapter of their playing careers."
 
Waggoner, who was part of the starting XI in Saturday's contest at Orange County SC, played in 43 games during his three-year career as defender for the Wolverines.
 
"This is a really exciting opportunity for my family and me. It's been a dream of mine ever since I was a little kid to be a professional soccer player and I've worked most of my life to make this happen," said Waggoner. "I'm thankful and appreciative for everything Utah Valley did for me to help me start my career. I couldn't be happier for Blake as well and look forward to seeing Utah Valley produce more professionals over the years to come."
 
Frischknecht, who is playing for his hometown team in Las Vegas, was the WAC Offensive Player of the Year as a senior after leading the conference with 13 goals scored. He also led the nation with seven game-winners. Frischknecht's return to the pitch comes after he suffered an injury in the UVU's WAC Tournament quarterfinal win.
 
"I'm so happy and excited to be a part of the Las Vegas Lights. It's an honor to be able to return to my hometown, and to play the sport I love," Frischknecht said. "UVU helped prepare me in many ways for life after college. I'm saddened to hear that the fall season will be postponed, but I know that this program will continue to grow and produce talent that is ready to play at the next level. Jaiden and I are the products of a great environment and program. We will see many more Wolverines playing professionally in the years to come."