ROCHESTER, N.Y.  – The Rochester Rhinos announced on Tuesday the signing of attacking midfielder Rayane Boukemia, a former standout in the PDL for Reading United AC. The signing is pending league and federation approval.

Boukemia recorded four goals and three assists in nine regular-season appearances for Reading in 2016 as the side won the Mid Atlantic Division in the PDL. Boukemia added another goal in three postseason appearances as Reading reached the Eastern Conference Final.

“We’ve been very pleased with what we’ve seen from Rayane this offseason, and we think he will have a lot to offer the side this season,” said Rhinos Head Coach Bob Lilley. “His eye for goal and ability to create will be a welcome addition to our side, and the success he’s found in the PDL with Reading and at Southern New Hampshire bode well for his future.”

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A native of Strasbourg, France, Boukemia also played for two seasons at Southern New Hampshire University, where he featured prominently in the Penmen’s success. Boukemia recorded 18 goals and six assists in 30 career appearances for Southern New Hampshire, and this past fall was named to the NSCAA Division II All-America Team.

“I’m very excited to start my professional career with the Rhinos,” said Boukemia. “It has been great getting to know Coach Lilley and the rest of the team, and I want to help the side continue the success of the past two seasons in my first year with the club.”

The Rhinos will kick off the 2017 USL regular season on Saturday, April 1 against Bethlehem Steel FC at Goodman Stadium. The club’s home opener is on Saturday, April 22 when the defending USL Cup champion New York Red Bulls II visit Capelli Sports Stadium. Kickoff is set for 6:05 p.m. ET.