Charleston, W.Va. - Former University of Charleston All-American soccer player Rob Vincent has started his professional career playing for the Pittsburgh Riverhounds of the United Soccer League Pro Division.

Vincent began training with the Riverhounds this past January in hopes of joining a professional team to continue his soccer career.  Through training with the Pittsburgh based team, Rob was offered a pro contract with the Riverhounds prior to the season start.

In a recent conversation with Rob he had this to say about his experience at the University of Charleston:

"I contacted Pittsburgh in January about training with the team with a view to signing. Luckily, I had taken care of enough credits over the past few years to be able to finish my final semester with just 3 credits, which were internship hours. So I had the freedom to travel and practice with any teams. Pittsburgh gave me the opportunity to train with them during pre-season and a few days before the opening game they told me they would like to sign me.

Its great because I've always wanted to play professionally, and 4 years ago, I thought I had lost my last chance.
I have to say a huge thanks to UC for giving me the chance to continue not only my career, but to get an education at the same time.

So many people have had an influence on my career. My parents, first of all, who have been with me every step of the way, even though it was a big decision for me to move to the US, they've stood by me. I also give thanks to Coach Duernberger who offered me the opportunity to come to UC and then also to Coach Grassie. All 3 of those men have taught me a lot, pushed me to my limits and ultimately have made this possible.

This is just the start though. I want to keep improving and play at the highest possible level."

Vincent has appeared in five of the first seven games of the 2013 USL Pro season, earning two starts for the Riverhounds.  It has been a slow start for Pittsburgh as they are winless through the first seven matches, but recently earned a draw against the Los Angeles Blues who sit in second in the USL Pro table.

To learn more about the Riverhounds and track Rob's progress, click HERE.