January 26, 2023 – United Soccer League Championship (USL) – Birmingham Legion FC News Release
BIRMINGHAM, AL – Birmingham Legion FC announced today the signing of 2022 Sun Belt First Team All-Conference defender Gabriel Alves, pending league and federation approval.
“We’re excited to add Gabriel to our group,” said President and GM Jay Heaps. “He’s a talented, versatile player, and we think he’ll be able to step right in and contribute along the backline and in central midfield.”
The 23-year-old from Sao Paulo, Brazil was a mainstay in the Marshall University lineup starting with his freshman campaign in 2020, when he was named to the All-Conference Freshman Team and the Herd were Conference USA Champions and NCAA Division 1 National Champions. Alves captained his team in 2022 and was named to the Sun Belt All-Conference First Team, the United Soccer Coaches All-Southeast Region First Team, and earned an invite to the 2023 MLS Showcase.
“It’s a dream come true for my family and I that I have signed my first professional contract with Birmingham Legion FC, and I couldn’t be happier!” said Alves. “It has taken considerable faith, time, effort, and sacrifice to earn this opportunity, and I am thankful to God, my family, my coaches, and my teammates.”
“From the very beginning of our conversations, I enjoyed talking to Coach Tommy and learning about his vision for the club. I’m excited to help the team as it strives to win games and bring home trophies to this amazing community. I’m excited to get to work, wear the club’s colors, and support the team in achieving its goals.”
Alves started 51 of 52 games played in his collegiate career and scored two goals and added four assists while starting primarily at left back.
Transaction: Birmingham Legion FC signed defender/midfielder Gabriel Alves to a multi-year deal, pending league and federation approval.
Player Profile:
Name: Gabriel Alves
Position: Defender/Midfielder
Number: 16
Height: 6′ 1″
Weight: 182 lbs.
Birthdate: February 10, 1999 (Age: 23)
Hometown: Sao Paulo, Brazil
Citizenship: Brazilian
Previous Club: Marshall University (NCAA Division 1)
Instagram: @gabrielalvess99
Twitter: @ga_alcides
Get ready for the Legion FC Home Opener on March 11 by getting your Season Tickets now! Fans looking to purchase or find more information can do so at bhmlegion.com/2023tickets or are encouraged to email tickets@bhmlegion.com or call the Legion FC Ticket Office at 205-791-7145.
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