Hugo Lopes signs to play soccer at NCAA Division I school

Victor Hugo Lopes, a co-captain of the Cowley College men's soccer team, parlayed a successful sophomore season into signing a letter of intent with NCAA Division I Florida Gulf Coast University in Fort Meyers, FL.

"Victor is a great talent, an amazing leader, and an even better person," Cowley head soccer coach Ruy Vaz said. "He is so deserving of all his accomplishments, and I am very proud of him."

Hugo Lopes, a defender from Sao Paulo, Brazil, scored three goals during the 2023 season and was named a Second Team all-conference selection after helping the Tiger soccer team win a district title and a victory at the national tournament.

The Tiger soccer team won 32 games and made back-to-back national tournament appearances during Hugo Lopes' two years at Cowley College.

"I swear these were the best two years of my life," Hugo Lopes said. "I grew so much as a person and athlete and want to say thank you to coach Ruy (Vaz) and everyone that helped make this such an amazing journey."

Hugo Lopes will join a Florida Gulf Coast squad that plays its games in Fort Meyers, FL.

"My goal before I came to Cowley was to play Division I soccer in Florida," Hugo Lopes said. "The Coaches at Florida Gulf Coast have the same goals as me of winning a championship."

Coach Vaz is sad to see Hugo Lopes go but knows he will do well at his new school.

"FGCU is getting a tremendous defender and someone who will wear the jersey as a second skin," Vaz said. "I wish Victor the best in Fort Myers, and hopefully, I can visit him in Florida."