Hokie ClubLUXEMBOURG CITY, Luxembourg – Tyler Taber has signed a professional contract with Racing FC Union Luxembourg following a one-year stint with Virginia Tech.
Taber's move serves as a homecoming of sorts, as he played for the Racing-Union academy for two years before moving to FC Metz as a youth. He returned to the club for six months prior to joining the Hokies in the fall of 2021.
"Although I had my ups and downs during the fall because of injuries, I've really enjoyed my short time here and I think it's made me grow mentally and physically," said Taber. "Since day one, everybody was very welcoming, which made it so much easier adjusting coming from another continent. I will forever be grateful for the opportunity that I was given to play at Virginia Tech."
Racing FC Union Luxembourg plays in the Luxembourg National Division and currently sits fifth in the league table, six points off first place. In the past three seasons, the club competed in the UEFA Europe League qualifying round and the UEFA Europa Conference League qualifying round.
"I am very excited for Tyler and his next step into professional soccer," said head coach Mike Brizendine. "Our mission is to help each player reach his goals, whether that be getting a job, starting a business, or playing professionally. With that said, I'm thrilled that we could be a part of helping him reach his goal to play professionally."
Taber featured in nine games – starting five – for Virginia Tech, as the team progressed to its sixth-consecutive NCAA Tournament. In his first game, Taber scored a go-ahead goal against Kansas City. The midfielder also contributed two assists throughout the season.
Taber joins Sivert Haugli as the second member of the 2021 squad to join the professional ranks after Haugli was selectd by the Portland Timbers in the MLS SuperDraft.