PAWTUCKET, R.I. – Rhode Island FC announced on Wednesday it had signed defender Nathan Messer ahead of its upcoming 2024 USL Championship season, which kicks off this Saturday against New Mexico United at Beirne Stadium. The transaction is pending league and federation approval.

Messer spent the past two seasons in USL League Two with Vermont Green FC, where he helped the side reach the postseason in 2022 and earn consecutive berths in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. The full back also competed at Providence College, where in his lone season with the Friars he recorded four goals and five assists in 1,225 minutes and 17 appearances.

“We’re really excited to bring another former Providence College standout onto our roster,” said Rhode Island FC Head Coach Khano Smith. “Nathan has experience at the collegiate level and overseas. He’s a guy who likes to make plays and has the ability to attack up the field.”

Prior to competing at PC, Messer spent four years at William & Mary where he started 45 matches in 58 appearances and recorded eight goals and 10 assists.