RIFC Roundup: New Face Enters, Familiar Friend Departs

Rhode Island continues to build out its roster ahead of its second season

Rhode Island FC has signed Marshall University midfielder Taimu Okiyoshi. Okiyoshi signs his first professional contract with the Ocean State following an impressive tenure with the Herd, which included captaining his team to the national championship.

Logging a total of 62 starts out of 63 career appearances for Marshall, Okiyoshi was the only player to start every game in 2024 leading to the team’s second-ever appearance in the title match. During his time at Marshall the two-year captain recorded 5,408 minutes of playing time while scoring three goals and contributing eight assists.

The midfielder earned numerous accolades for his contributions toward his team’s success in his final season. He was named TopDrawerSoccer’s national best XI, received United Soccer Coaches Second Team All-American honors, and was selected to the Sun Belt All-Conference First Team. Okiyoshi was named to the College Cup All-Tournament team after playing every minute in the NCAA tournament, and was also a semi-finalist for the Mac Hermann Trophy.

Along with Rhode Island’s new signing comes a departure, as it was reported by RIFC podcast Raising Anchor that Kofi Twumasi would not be returning to the Amber and Blue for 2025. During his tenure with the club Twumasi played 463 minutes across 15 matches, before being sidelined by injuries.