After being drafted into the MLS by NYCFC, Taylor Calheira, a two-time America East Striker of the Year, signed a professional contract with NYCFC II. Taylor has scored four goals and four assists in eight professional matches while captaining the team and playing every minute. 

In addition, Taylor was named to the College Soccer News All-American 3rd Team in his senior season. Calheira was the 66th player taken overall and the eighth selection in the draft's final round. The Baltimore native was one of only two selections by the 10-year-old franchise.

Calheira earned America East Striker of the Year honors in 2022 and 2023. After earning All-Rookie Team honors in the spring of 2020, Calheira was selected to the America East First Team over the past three fall campaigns, becoming the first Retriever since Pete Caringi III (2011-13) to earn three consecutive top honors. He completed his tenure in eighth place on the Retrievers' all-time goals list with 32.

"I had some of the best years and memories of my life in the classroom and on the field at UMBC," said Calheira. "Not only was I able to obtain a degree from a top-tier university, but I was also blessed to be drafted into the MLS. The soccer program provides intense sessions, dedicated teammates who become family, quality football, and a staff who does everything they can to progress their players to the next level. I have taken what I have learned from UMBC and have been able to apply it to the professional level at NYCFC 2."

"Taylor joins a long list of former Retrievers who have signed professional contracts," stated UMBC Head Coach Anthony Adams. "We wish him much success in the future! 

Calheira became the seventh Retriever drafted since 2010 and the first since Jon Bell was selected by the San Jose Earthquakes in 2019.