Sports stats



USL Rochester Rhinos

Rhinos Sign Three Depth Players to 2015 Roster

March 26, 2015 - United Soccer League Championship (USL)
Rochester Rhinos News Release


Rochester, NY - The Rochester Rhinos are pleased to announce the signing of midfielder Marcos Ugarte, defender Drew Ruggles, and goalkeeper Adam Grinwis. The Rhinos open the 2015 season at the New York Red Bulls II on Saturday, March 28th at 2:00pm at Red Bull Arena in Harrison, New Jersey.

Marcos Ugarte is a midfielder who recently graduated from the University of Michigan and has soccer in his blood. His father, Ernesto, played semi-professionally in Peru and his brother, Alex, played at Bucknell University. Marcos began his collegiate career at Providence College and made an immediate impact as he finished his freshman year tied for the team lead with 15 points on six goals and three assists. His sophomore campaign saw him capture the third most points on the team with two goals and two assists. His final two years were spent at the University of Michigan where he started 21 of 30 matches and had a total of 11 points while helping to control the middle of the pitch.

"He's a quick wide player. He has really great energy and a very nice left foot. He's creative on the wing and can be a very tricky and dangerous player with the ball at his feet," Lilley stated about Marcos.

Drew Ruggles is a 22 year old defender who will be joining the Rhinos this season after playing the 2014 season with the Wilmington Hammerheads. Ruggles path included playing four years collegiately at Georgia Southern University and for the Michigan Bucks in the USL PDL. Ruggles recorded one goal and one assist in 21 matches helping to anchor a defense that gave up the fifth fewest goals in then USL PRO. Drew played for the Baltimore Blast this past season and helped the team to the Championship series before reporting to the Rhinos.

"He brings solid athleticism, size, and pace to the pitch. He has the ability to play either left back or left midfield and can provide very good services from the left flank going forward," Lilley said.

Goalkeeper Adam Grinwis is another University of Michigan standout. Adam's successful collegiate career started in 2011 where he started 15 matches and had two shutouts. In 2012, he lead the Big Ten and ranked 8th nationally in total saves (100) and was voted to the All-Big Ten 2nd team and the All-Big Ten Tournament Team. In 2013, Grinwis started all 18 matches he played in and recorded 4 shutouts and was co-captain of the team. His final year, Grinwis allowed his fewest goals, 12, over his four years. Grinwis also played for the Michigan Bucks (USL PDL). In August 2014, Grinwis was named the Most Outstanding player of the USL PDL Final Four for his effort between the pipes.

"Although he's not the biggest, he's very athletic for his size. He's a good shot stopper and deals with crosses well. He should be very competitive with Miller this year," Lilley stated about Grinwis.

Rochester Rhinos 2015 Rhinos season tickets, flex packs and group tickets are available by calling (585) 454-KICK (5425), by visiting the MVP Health Care Box Office at Sahlen's Stadium, or online at rhinossoccer.com. Full season ticket packages start at $99.00 and the Rhinos Family Pass is $299.00 for a family of four!

• Discuss this story on the United Soccer League Championship message board...

United Soccer League Championship Stories from March 26, 2015


The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.

OurSports Central