Vinícius Rodrigues Tomaz da Silva Almeida (born 26 June 1983) is a Brazilian footballer. Born in Dias d'Ávila, Bahia, Vinícius started his career with Vitória, located in Salvador, the state capital. In September 2005, he was signed by Atlético Mineiro and played a season for the club at 2005 Campeonato Brasileiro Série A. In January 2006 he was signed by Iraty (de facto controlled by investment company) and immediately borrowed by Avaí for a year. He played 2006 and Campeonato Catarinense and 2006 Campeonato Brasileiro Série B for the club.