After a stellar season with Conyers' Georgia Revolution, Mark Lavery signed a professional contract with the Atlanta Silverbacks of the North American Soccer League.

"We are excited for Mark and know he will do a good job at the next level," said Revolution general manager Rafe Mauran. "Although we will certainly miss him, we are so proud that he has signed a pro contract. We hope that this is a trend that continues for years to come as players can use the Georgia Revolution as a platform to launch their soccer careers."

Lavery helped the Revolution advance in the 2012 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup and reach the Southeast Championship.

"Mark is a very good player and was an integral part to the success of the Georgia Revolution during the 2012 season," Revolution coach John Sprague said. "I feel his commitment, versatility and infectious ‘need to win' attitude will help him break into the mix for the Atlanta Silverbacks. Although he will be sorely missed by teammates, staff and fans here at RYSA, we wish him the best of luck and will be cheering him on from the stands."

Lavery grew up in the Atlanta area and played for one year at the University of Kentucky before moving on to Oglethorpe. At Oglethorpe, he garnered a number of awards including conference defensive player of the year, first team all-conference, first team all-region, first team all-American and college athlete of the year.

"The Georgia Revolution was instrumental in helping to prepare me to play professionally," Lavery said. "My time spent playing with the Revs last summer was an excellent one. I was able to compete at a high level and play in some great games. The facilities, coaching staff and the fans were unbelievable, and I credit the professional environment that was created in my development as a player."

Georgia Revolution regular season schedule

Friday, May 24 at Jacksonville United 8 p.m.

Sunday, May 26 at Miami United SC 2 p.m.

Saturday, June 1 vs. Jacksonville United 7:30 p.m.

Friday, June 7 at Tampa Marauders 6:30 p.m.

Sunday, June 9 at Cape Coral Hurricanes 3 p.m.

Saturday, June 16 vs. Miami United SC 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, June 29 vs. Cape Coral 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, July 6 vs. Tampa Bay Marauders 7:30 p.m.

July 12-14 Conference tournament

Friday, July 19 vs Atlanta Silverbacks, 7:30 p.m.