STATESBORO, Ga. – South Georgia Tormenta FC will kick off its 2022 USL League One season against North Carolina FC this Saturday, April 2 at 7:30 p.m. ET at Erk Russell Park. Professional soccer returns to Statesboro with a reenergized squad under the helm of Head Coach Ian Cameron who looks to start the season off with a win.
“Opening nights are always special,” Head Coach Ian Cameron commented. “While preseason can provide good indicators of where a squad stands in their development, competitive games always provide greater clarity, and we’re looking forward to our first real audit.
Ian Cameron, Tormenta FC Head Coach
“The matchup with NCFC is an intriguing one. Both clubs felt disappointed with their league standing last season and both will be eager to show in game one what progress they’ve made in the offseason and lay down a marker for how they intend to compete in the top half. Both groups are yet to finalize a couple of pieces, but there will be plenty of players on the field who can win a game for their respective team.”
Saturday marks the start of Tormenta FC’s fourth professional season in USL League One. The team looks to continue its form after an undefeated preseason with three wins and two draws against USL Championship sides Tampa Bay Rowdies and Atlanta United 2, along with three of the region’s top collegiate programs.
The 2022 offseason was a busy one for Tormenta FC as the club made numerous eye-catching moves to solidify the squad for the upcoming season with six players returning. With the additions of Kazaiah Sterling, Tobias Otieno and Jake Dengler to name a few, the team seeks a more successful start of the season than 2021. Cameron is confident in the team he built during the offseason and will have his first test against an improved side in North Carolina FC this Saturday.
“I am excited to play my first professional game for Tormenta FC which I hope ends up in a win to start our season off strong,” TFC midfielder Chris Heckenberg commented. “Every team hopes and expects to win their first game, so we have to set the standard for the season by starting off with a win.”
Chris Heckenberg, Tormenta FC Midfielder
North Carolina FC enters the season coming off of a 7-17-4 record in 2021. During the offseason, NCFC has made several roster changes, including the addition of Nicholás Molina, USL League Two’s 2021 Most Valuable Player. Additionally, familiar faces will return to Erk Russell Park as NCFC added former TFC defender Jordan Skelton to its backline. Key returns to the team include midfielders Pecka Martinez and Nelson Martinez, along with defender Max Flick.
Supporters can purchase tickets in advance online for $15 or at the gates for $20. Fans not able to make it to Saturday’s match can stream the match domestically via ESPN+ or on Youtube internationally.
Tormenta FC is excited for a historic 2022 as it transitions from Erk Russell Park to Tormenta Stadium. Single-match tickets are now live for advance purchase with Tormenta FC’s home opener approaching on April 2. Supporters can also purchase season memberships or Flex Ticket packages and guarantee their presence at every home match this season.
TICKET INFORMATION
Fans should purchase General Admission tickets online in advance for $15, as tickets bought at the gate on game day will be $20. Supporters wanting to sit in the VIP section will need to purchase a 2022 ticket package (Flex Ticket Package or Season Membership).
During the tailgate and match, Southeastern Balloon Services will be offering tethered hot air balloon rides for $20, so show up early!
HOW TO WATCH/FOLLOW
Saturday’s match versus NCFC will be streamed live through ESPN+ domestically and Youtube Internationally. For live updates and highlights throughout the match, fans can follow Tormenta FC on Twitter.