SAN ANTONIO — The University of the Incarnate Word men's soccer team has two former Cardinals in the professional ranks after 2020 graduate Tom Bibby signed his contract with the Connah's Quay Nomads FC in Wales in early July. Bibby joins former teammate and goalkeeper, Carlos Mercado, in the pros as Mercado is in his second year as a goalkeeper for the San Antonio FC.

After making his first appearance in the Nomads' match against FC Prishtina, in the first leg of the UEFA Europa Conference League on Thursday, July 20, Bibby fulfilled a dream-come-true of his.

The Bagillt, Wales native grew up playing in the Nomads' Youth Academy since he was 11 years old. He helped the academy team win back-to-back Welsh College Championships and appeared in four international competitions before he enrolled at UIW.

"I was introduced to that (professional) environment from a young age," Bibby said. "Being able to play in the Academy, I was always around the professional team and as I got older, I knew I was not quite ready, not quite mature enough to make an impact, so that was when I knew playing Division I soccer at UIW would help me get to that point."

A five-year member of the Cardinals, Bibby appeared in 40 games as a midfielder and credited his time at UIW to his success at securing his first professional contract.

"Playing at UIW, I was able to become more experienced as a leader and a team captain. Also learning from Coach Lara and the rest of the coaching staff, I was more prepared to go back to Great Britain and ready to play."

Mercado echoed a similar response as he reflected on what he has learned since being in the San Antonio FC organization for the past two years.

"UIW prepared me really well to play at the professional level. At times it was tough playing in the WAC because it is a very competitive conference, but I was able to enjoy my time here and it helped me to be mentally prepared for the next level. I am very grateful for UIW, it helped make me into the person I am, and it will always be a special place in my heart."

A two-year starter for UIW in 2018 and 2019, Mercado appeared in 39 games and led the Cardinals with 1,351 minutes played as a freshman in 2018. He compiled 57 saves and held a 2.53 goal against average. Mercado followed that with 1,435 minutes in 2019, a 1.38 goal against average, 57 saves and just 22 goals surrendered.

The Laredo, Texas goalkeeper has found that being mentally prepared for the professional level is what keeps him motivated and ready to play.

"I am still learning in my second year at SAFC that I have to be 100 percent mentally, talent plays a big role in the professional level, but I think mentality is a big part," Mercado said. "You have to be really dedicated and put all of your effort into soccer, even the routine things, eating healthy, doing the extra workouts, doing all the things outside of soccer right is very important to playing in the next level."

Mercado and the SAFC are currently ranked sixth in the USL Championship Western Conference Group B standings with a 4-3-6 record midway through the 2021 season.

While Bibby and the Nomads wrap up the UEFA Europa Conference League on Thursday, July 29 against FC Prishtina before starting the JD Cymru Premier League regular season against the Cefn Druids on Friday, August 13. The new No. 18 in red is excited for the next opportunity to take the field for the Nomads.

"Now that I am here, I want to keep improving myself and make sure I am ready everyday and to be an important asset and a regular contributor for the team moving forward." Bibby said.

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