BAKERSFIELD, Calif. ? Josh Wicks, a goalkeeper for the CSUB men's soccer team from 2001-04, signed a contract with the LA Galaxy, the club announced Tuesday.

Wicks comes to the Galaxy after spending the last three years in the USL First Division with Portland and the Vancouver Whitecaps. The 24-year-old joins Charles Alamo and Steve Cronin in the Galaxy's goalkeeping pool. Born in Landstuhl, Germany, Wicks moved to the U.S. at the age of four, settling in San Bernardino, Calif. He played four years at CSUB before signing with the Whitecaps prior to the start of the 2005 season.

Wicks spent two years in Vancouver, appearing in 16 games, compiling a 7-5-4 record and recording seven clean sheets while helping the Whitecaps to the 2006 USL Championship. Prior to the start of the 2007 season, he signed with the Timbers and immediately established himself as one of the top goalkeeper's in the league. He started 27 games for Portland, compiling a 13-4-9 record with a 0.60 goals against average, the best in the USL en route to winning the 2007 Goalkeeper of the Year Award.

"Josh came in and has opened a lot of eyes with his play," Galaxy goalkeeper coach Ian Feuer said. "We knew that we needed someone who could push Steve (Cronin) for the No. 1 spot and he has certainly done that. Not only that, but he has a great attitude, works hard and always livens up the locker room. He will be a tremendous asset to the club."

"This is a great opportunity for me to play, not only for the Galaxy, but also to be closer to my home and my family," Wicks added. "I am thrilled to be joining the Galaxy and know that this is a tremendous chance for me to continue my growth as a professional."

The 2008 Major League Soccer season is just around the corner with the Galaxy traveling to face the Colorado Rapids in their regular-season opener Saturday.