UC's Jeff Hughes Going Pro

University of Cincinnati junior soccer Jeff Hughes has signed a professional contract with TSV 1860 Munich of Germany’s Bundesliga Second Division.

Hughes will forego his final year of collegiate eligibility to play overseas.

“In the end, this is what I really want to do,” said Hughes. “Going professional is a big step and something that I am proud of.”

Hughes, a second-team All-Conference USA selection, was the Bearcats’ second-leading scorer last season, netting seven goals and assisting on two others for 16 points. A transfer from Western Michigan, Hughes was a two-time All-Mid-American Conference selection with the Broncos. He led the MAC with 16 goals in 2003.

“We’re very excited for Jeff. We’d obviously love to have him back, but it has always been his goal to play professionally,” said Cincinnati head coach Hylton Dayes. “We’re proud to have helped develop players that have had the opportunity to play professionally.”

Hughes is the third Bearcat soccer star to move on to the professional level in the past two seasons. Josh Gardner became UC’s first Major League Soccer draftee last season, being selected in the second round by the Los Angeles Galaxy. Tim Brown, UC’s leading scorer in 2003, signed a professional contract with the A-League Richmond Kickers following last season.

Cincinnati has a chance to see a fourth player move on to the next level this weekend. Jeremiah Gallegos, a senior forward, has been ruled eligible for the 2005 MLS SuperDraft, which will be held on Friday, Jan. 14 at the Baltimore Convention Center in Baltimore, Md.

“He is a very talented player and someone that has been an integral part of our program over the last four years,” Dayes said of Gallegos. “We’re excited that professional coaches think enough of Jeremiah to include him in the draft pool. We wish him all the best.”