CONWAY, Ark. – Former men's soccer player Tajio James has signed a professional contract with NK Varazdin, a squad in the first division of Croatian soccer, the team announced.
 
James, who played two years at Central Arkansas, makes the move to Europe after successful collegiate and international stops. In two seasons with the Bears, he tallied eight goals and six assists, earning himself Second Team All-Region and Second Team All-ASUN nods. He went on an absolute tear during the 2024 ASUN Championship Final run, scoring five goals and adding two assists in the final six matches of the season, helping Central Arkansas reach the ASUN Championship Final.
 
"We couldn't be more excited for Tajio. He came to us from Feather River College with the dream to play professionally, and through his hard work, dedication and belief in himself, he made this dream come true," Head coach Kyle Segebart said. "Varazdin are getting a player who believes in putting his team before himself and playing any role necessary to achieve success. His dynamic ability on the ball and pace to threaten in behind will be attributes their supporters will enjoy to watch."
 
The Barbadian has also made a name for himself at the international level, playing for the Barbados national team several times. Since making his debut in 2022, James has earned 15 caps, scoring five goals for the Barbados senior men's national team.
 
"Central Arkansas has been a place that has helped craft professional players in the past. My staff and I will continue this tradition by developing meaningful relationships with our players and helping them grow to become men capable of leading themselves and develop into players any team would value in their locker room. From all of us at UCA, good luck!" Segebart added.