The Flint City Bucks have signed Canadian midfielder Hugo Tavares for the upcoming USL League Two season, pending league and federation approval.

Tavares has eight goals and two assists through two seasons with the New Jersey Institute of Technology. He has started all 35 matches since his arrival.

“Joining Flint City is a tremendous opportunity,” Tavares said. “I want to express my gratitude to Gary Parsons and Paul Doroh for giving me the chance to be a part of this special organization. The Bucks have an incredible winning history.  That and a long tradition of developing players were key factors in my decision to join. Beyond my personal goals for the season, I hope to contribute to another successful season for the Bucks and hopefully bring home our fifth title together.”

Tavares, considered a technical tempo-setter, was named to the 2022 America East Conference all-rookie team after ranking second on the Highlanders with three goals. He followed that performance with a five-goal, two-assist campaign this past fall.

Born in Quebec but spending a portion of his childhood in Porto, Portugal, the sophomore played for Canada at the 2022 CONCACAF U-20 Championship.

Last summer, Tavares played for USL2 Deep North Division champions Thunder Bay Chill, landing Rookie of the Season honors with the Ontario-based side.

Before college, he played for F.C. Paços de Ferreira in Portugal.