DEKALB, Ill. -- Former Northern Illinois University men's soccer player Sean Totsch (Oswego, Ill./Oswego) made his debut for the Rochester Rhinos this past Saturday in their season opener against New York Red Bulls II. Totsch started and played 61 minutes as the Rhinos played to a scoreless draw with New York at Red Bull Arena.

"It has been a long journey finding a team after graduating but it built character," said Totsch. "I am glad to be in Rochester now, we have a great group of guys and we will do well this year. That start was a long time coming and no better place to do it than Red Bull Arena. I'm thankful to everyone that helped me get where I am today."

"I couldn't be more pleased for Sean," said NIU head coach Eric Luzzi. "He had a great career at NIU and was a big part of some very successful teams that we had over the last few years. He has worked very hard for this opportunity to play at the professional level and fully deserves all the success that he is now having.  

"I was able to catch most of his performance in his debut this past weekend and I thought he played really well. We have had a number of players continue their career at the professional level overseas, but Sean is really the first to have made it at the pro level in the US. Sean has all the tools physically, technically and mentally to continue to thrive at the next level and I am excited to see what Sean will accomplish over the next few years at the professional level."

The Rochester Rhinos are a member of the United Soccer League (USL), the primary developmental league for Major League Soccer (MLS). The Rhinos are an affiliate of the 2014 MLS Cup finalist New England Revolution. Totsch signed with Rochester on March 13.

"He has good technical ability and passing range. He's a versatile player that plays with an edge who can play in the back or defensive midfield," Rochester head coach Bob Lilley said upon his signing.

In four seasons at NIU, the Oswego, Ill., native appeared in 64 matches, making 47 starts. Totsch scored six goals in his Huskie career, including the game-winner in the 2011 Mid-American Conference Tournament Final against Western Michigan. Totsch served as team captain as a senior in 2013.

Totsch and Rhinos continue their 2015 season this Saturday, April 4, when they visit the Pittsburgh Riverhounds.