ROCHESTER, N.Y. – Josh Faga, an anchor for Marist in its defensive third the past three seasons, became an official member of the Rochester Rhinos of the USL Pro League on Monday when the club announced his signing to a professional contract.
After completing his award-winning career as a Red Fox, in which he was honored with All-MAAC Second Team accolades in 2012 and 2010, Faga (Rochester, N.Y.) attended a Rhinos' workout in December and eventually was invited to InfoSport's 13th annual Pro Soccer Combine in Florida where he showcased his talents to coaches and general manager from across a wide variety of professional soccer leagues.
After impressing to staff of the Rhinos at the combine, Head Coach Jesse Myers offered Faga a professional deal and the chance to begin his career with his hometown club.
“Josh was a tireless worker and talented player for us,” said Marist Head Coach Matt Viggiano. “We always thought that he had the potential to play at the next level and he showed it by getting this great opportunity. We're proud of him and know that he'll represent the program well. It'll be great to have another jersey to hang in the office.”
With Rochester's signing of Faga and Mike Reidy, another local talent, the Rhinos' roster stands at 19 players.
The Rhinos, who are coming off of a 12-7-5 regular season showing and a second place finish in the league, open their 18th season on Saturday, April 13 at 7:30 PM against Tampa Bay. The Rhinos home opener is on Saturday, May 4 at 7PM against Harrisburg City in Sahlen's Stadium.
About the Rhinos … The Rochester Rhinos, the most successful soccer club in the United States and Canada outside of Major League Soccer, were founded in 1996 and currently play in the USL PRO Division – the top tier of the United Soccer Leagues. The Rhinos have appeared in eight finals and won four championships including the 1999 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup and three A-League Championships (1998, 2000, 2001). In 2013, the New England Revolution became the official MLS affiliate of the Rochester Rhinos.
