Ukrainian Forward Joins GSU Men's Soccer Program

UNIVERSITY PARK, IL — The Governors State men's soccer team has added its first international student-athlete in sophomore forward Zakhar Shkidchenko (pronounced: Z-har SHKID-chenko), a transfer from NCAA Division II Purdue Northwest.

Born in the Ukraine capital of Kyiv, the 5-foot-9 Shkidchenko did not register any points in three games with the PNW Pride last season. He played a season-high 29 minutes against Northern Michigan.

The son of Julia and Gregory Shkidchenko, Zakhar will major in business management at GSU.

"Zakhar is a quick, left-footed attacker who possess all the tools to be an impact player in the CCAC from day one," said GSU Head Coach Matt Eggert.

Shkidchenko is the third recruit to sign on for the Jaguars' inaugural season, joining GSU soccer club captain Cielo Ovideo and Lincoln-Way East HS midfielder Andy Cahue.