CHICAGO, Ill. -- UMass Lowell senior back Franky Martinez (Englewood, N.J.) became the second player in program history to be selected in the MLS SuperDraft, after being picked in the third round by Sporting Kansas City.

"I'm extremely grateful and can't thank Kansas City enough for this opportunity," remarked Martinez. "I just want to thank the entire River Hawk family, without the help and support I received at UMass Lowell, I cannot say this would be possible. I m ready to go out and prove myself, and am beyond excited to get the ball rolling."

The 69th overall selection spent three seasons with the River Hawks, appearing in 40 games with 34 starts, after playing at Iona College as a freshman. Spearheading the back line, Martinez led UMass Lowell to a 33-14-5 record with a 14-6-1 mark in America East play, including two appearances in the America East Championship. 

"This is a great opportunity for Franky, and we are very for him as he has earned, said Head Coach Christian Figueroa. "Sporting KC is a great organization and we are excited to see how Franky will grow there. He's a driven individual and will make the entire River Hawk family proud."

Martinez joins Wuilito Fernandes (2016, FC Dallas) as the two River Hawks to be drafted by a MLS organization.