Rhode Island FC signs Koke Vegas as first player

PAWTUCKET, R.I. (WLNE) — Rhode Island FC, the state’s new professional men’s soccer team, has signed its first official player.

The team signed Koke Vegas to a multi-year agreement.

Rhode Island FC will host a press conference Wednesday to mark the celebration.

Vegas most recently played in USL Championship for San Diego Loyal and played professionally in Europe for a decade.

“Koke Vegas is making history as the first player to ever wear the Rhode Island FC crest. As both a person and a player, he represents the values and style that we want our club and team to have,” said Khano Smith, head coach and general manager.

“Koke is an accomplished professional, with experience at the highest levels of the game,” he said. “I cannot wait to introduce Koke to our fans and to build the rest of our roster for our club’s first USL season.”

Vegas is from Spain, where he played professionally for 11 seasons.

“I am thrilled to be a part of a new club and look forward to moving to New England for Rhode Island FC’s inaugural season,” Vegas said.

Rhode Island Fc will make its USL Championship debut in early March 2024. Home matches during its inaugural season will be held at Beirne Stadium at Bryant University.