STORY WRITTEN BY: Jordan King '26

STANDISH, Maine – Former Saint Joseph's College men's soccer standout Rion Dos Santos has taken the next step in his career, signing his first professional contract with Real Murcia CF, a historic club competing in Spain's Primera Federación, the nation's third tier of professional football. Murcia, one of the most tradition-rich sides in the country, plays its home matches at the 31,179-seat Estadio Nueva Condomina.

Dos Santos officially signed on September 23, becoming one of the rare Saint Joseph's alumni to reach the professional ranks. He now joins an exclusive list of Monks who have transitioned into the professional game:

• Mike Sheridan '23 – Signed with the Philadelphia Union II (MLS Next Pro). Sheridan, a two-time All-Conference honoree and 2022 GNAC Goalkeeper of the Year, recorded 47 saves and a 0.79 GAA in his final collegiate season. Since signing, he has appeared in 12 games for the Union, tallying 32 saves.
• Noah Robinson '20 – Signed with the Michigan Stars FC (NISA). Robinson was the 2019 GNAC Defensive Player of the Year and 2020 GNAC Man of the Year, and registered 54 points across four standout seasons.
• Blake Mullen '19 – Signed with the Western Mass Pioneers (USL League Two). Mullen was a three-time GNAC Goalkeeper of the Year and 2019 USL League Two Golden Glove Award winner after being named the nation's top goalkeeper in the league.

A versatile player capable of slotting in as a central midfielder or advanced striker, Dos Santos is already settling into his new role in Spain. "It's been really busy with training, gym sessions, and commuting to the stadium, but at night I get some time to relax," he said. "I'm adjusting well and enjoying the opportunity to experience life in Spain."

Saint Joseph's head coach Will Pike praised his former standout, stating "Rion is a hard worker. He has the passing ability, field vision, and overall intelligence to succeed in Spain. He does all the right things on and off the field to make himself and those around him better."

During his collegiate career, Dos Santos appeared in 65 games, tallying 10 goals and 11 assists for 31 points. He was a three-time GNAC First Team selection (2021, 2023, 2024), earned Second Team honors in 2022, and was named to the GNAC All-Rookie Team in 2021.

He was also a key contributor as a freshman on the 2021 GNAC Championship squad that advanced to the NCAA Tournament. Beyond the numbers, Dos Santos was known for his leadership and mentorship, even returning to campus this past preseason to help guide younger players. His advice to current Monks:

"Keep working hard. Even though it can be difficult, it is achievable. Always keep your doors open because you never know when or where the next opportunity will come from."

Before arriving at Saint Joseph's, Dos Santos starred at Falmouth High School, leading the Navigators to the 2019 Class A State Championship while earning All-SMAA and All-Region recognition. He also gained valuable experience with Natal (Brazil), Seacoast United, and Kennedy Park FC.

Reflecting on his journey, Dos Santos emphasized the importance of his roots:

"It has been a lifelong dream, but I only realized my potential in college. Being from Maine, opportunities were limited, but I had a lot of help from past coaches and others who made the process easier. My high school coach, David Halligan, helped make me the player I am today."

Though far from home, his support system remains constant:

"Every time I thought about giving up, my family and friends were there for me. That's what keeps me going."

For Rion Dos Santos, the signing with Real Murcia is more than just a contract—it is the realization of a dream and the start of an exciting new chapter.