RENO, Nev. – Reno 1868 FC has officially signed Luis Fernandes, pending league and federation approval. The 21-year-old is expected to play a key role in midfield. Born in Mineola, NY to Brazilian parents, Fernandes chose to play for his nation of birth at the international level. He is also eligible to represent Brazil.

“Luis is a ball-winning, box to box midfielder, who does a good job at keeping possession,” said head coach Ian Russell.  “He’s a young talent that we are excited to develop in Reno.”

Fernandes recently played for the Fort Lauderdale strikers of the North American Soccer League. With the Strikers, he made 31 appearances and notched two assists. Prior to his time with the Strikers, Fernandes played for Cruzeiro Esporte Clube in Brazil. Cruzeiro competes at the highest level of soccer in Brazil as part of the Campeonato Brasileiro Série A and has never been relegated.

Fernandes was an integral part of Cruzeiro’s youth sides that acquired a number of international titles. At 17, he caught the eyes of U.S. scouts when Cruzeiro’s under-17 team lifted the IMG Cup. Fernandes later became a member of the U.S. U20 team under head coach Tab Ramos before being signed by the Strikers.

Season Memberships are on-sale now at reno1868fc.com or by calling 775-334-7001. For-up-to-date news and notes throughout the season, follow Reno 1868 FC on Twitter @reno1868fc, Instagram @reno1868fc or like the team on Facebook.