BETHLEHEM, Pa. --- Former Moravian College quarterback Mike Hayes '17 has signed an international contract to play for the Prague Lions for the 2019 season.

The Prague Lions begin their 10-game season in April with contests running through June. The top four teams in the seven-team league will advance to the playoffs with two semifinals games and a championship contest to be played in July. The Lions, founded in 1991, were the first American football team in the Czech Republic.

"I chose the Prague Lions because of all that I heard about Prague and what a beautiful and historic city it is," Hayes said. "The team has been on the cusp of winning it all for years and I am looking to get the organization to that level this season."

Hayes, who last played during the 2016 D3 Senior Classic in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, was a three-year starting quarterback for the Hounds that rewrote the school's record book. As a senior in 2016, Hayes set school records of 239 completions, 378 attempts, a 63.2 completion percentage, 305.0 yards per game and 2,955 yards of total offense while his and 18 touchdowns in 2016 were the second most in a single season at Moravian.

He also had single game records of 516 yards, 37 completions, 64 attempts and 527 yards of total offense in his senior year while tying the mark with four touchdown passes. Hayes completed his career with school records of 6,643 yards, 569 completions, 957 attempts, 59.5 completion percentage, 214.3 passing yards per game and 7,298 yards of total offense and he is second all-time with 47 touchdown passes.

"We are very excited that Mike is getting the opportunity to continue his football career in Prague," stated Head Football Coach Jeff Pukszyn. "Mike was a great leader for us on and off the field. He is one of those people who strive to bring out the best in everyone around him. I am confident that this will continue with his new teammates in Prague."

To follow Hayes during the season, visit the Prague Lions' website at http://lions.cz/.