MADISON, Wisc. — Gustavo Fernandes has realized a childhood dream.
The 22-year-old Fernandes, a Stony Brook men's soccer product, has signed with Forward Madison of the USL League One.
It is the first professional contract of Fernandes' career.
"It's a lifelong dream come true," Fernandes said. "I can't wait to get started."
According to head coach and technical director Daryl Shore, Fernandes can play as a right back, a center back or a defensive midfielder, filling several potential areas of need for FMFC.
"When you have a guy who can play three different positions and play them all pretty well, it becomes an important asset to your team," Shore said. "We felt Gustavo's versatility was a
good fit as well as his character and the way he fit in with our players."
Fernandes joined Forward Madison for three weeks during its February preseason camp in Birmingham, Ala., where he made an impression on the coaching staff with his game awareness and technical proficiency.
"I was nervous the first couple of days because you hear a lot about preseason and what goes on, but after the game in Birmingham where I played the whole second half, I was like, 'Okay, I
can do this, I can compete with these guys,'" Fernandes said. "I'm ready to give my 100 percent. I'll do everything I can to help the team win."
The club has a pair of additional preseason matches before opening its regular season on March 28 against the Richmond Kickers.
Forward Madison FC is a charter member of USL League One, launched in the spring of 2019. The Flamingos finished fourth in their inaugural USL League One season while drawing a league-best 4,292 fans per match.
The 6-foot, 168-pound Fernandes, a North Babylon High School alum, began his collegiate career by playing two seasons at Iowa Western. He then played two seasons with the Seawolves, earning second-team All-America East honors as a junior while scoring four goals.
Fernandes has received insights from his brother on being a professional soccer player.
Leo Fernandes, who played for the Seawolves from 2009 through 2012, currently is a member of the Tampa Bay Rowdies.
"Besides my father, he has been the biggest influence in my life, without a doubt," the younger Fernandes said. "… He's the first person I call when something pops up. Saying he has been a huge help is an understatement."
