STATESBORO, Ga. – South Georgia Tormenta FC has announced the addition of goalkeeper Jodi Medina and defender Jhenesis Ellerbe to its 2022 USL W League roster, pending league and federation approval. Medina and Ellerbe strengthen Tormenta FC’s defense ahead of its inaugural W League kickoff this Saturday, May 14, at 7:30 p.m. at Erk Russell Park.
Jhenesis Ellerbe, a native of Powder Springs, Georgia, attends DII Powerhouse Young Harris College and has played an essential role on the women’s soccer team during her two years with the Bearcats.
“Jhenesis is athletic, quick, fast, and explosive. She can play as an outside back who can get forward every time or as a possession-oriented center back who can also win all the 1v1’s on the defensive side of the ball. She can win balls off of punts, long goal kicks, and wide service. We will use her physical and technical qualities to help anchor our backline. Jhenesis will prove tough to beat.”
Jim Robbins, Tormenta FC W League Head Coach
Ellerbe attended McEachern High School prior to committing to Young Harris and was a Second-team All-County in 2018. Ellerbe proved to be ready for collegiate competition as her first year saw her play and start in 17 matches, registering 1,533 minutes.
In 2021, the defender had her most productive season with the Bearcats. The defender played 13 games, totaling 1,189 minutes, and scored a career-high of three goals for the Bearcats. Ellerbe also helped the defensive line register four clean sheets in 2021.
“I choose Tormenta because there isn’t a better place for history to be made. I’m looking forward to playing with the variety of talented girls coming in as well.”
Jhenesis Ellerbe, Tormenta FC Defender
Medina is a graduate of Alabama A&M University and joins Tormenta FC’s goalkeeper union after being with the A & M side for five years.
“Jodi is a highly decorated GK with tons of college experience at the NCAA DI level. She is an excellent shot-stopper, she has great hands, and she can make all the difficult low saves that other GKs can’t make. She is very confident with the ball at her feet as well and she can build the game up from the back when needed. Her poise and leadership are also great assets that will help take her game to the next level.”
Jim Robbins, Tormenta FC W League Head Coach
With a save percentage of .807% from 2017 to 2021, Medina quickly established herself as a respected leader in the A&M squad. Medina was recognized by the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) as one of the top keepers in the conference throughout her time with Alabama A & M.
Medina played a total of 5,167 minutes for the Bulldogs and was considered a vital part of the team. The A&M keeper had nine shutouts and a total of 142 saves during her Senior year.
“I am so blessed to have the opportunity to be a part of such a talented team this summer. I chose to play with Tormenta FC because of the family community and sense of equality this club provides. I can’t wait to make history with this team and pave the way for women’s soccer in the U.S.”
Jodi Medina, Tormenta FC Goalkeeper
In June of 2021, Tormenta FC was named a founding member of the USL W League, an elite pre-professional pathway for women looking to build their careers both on and off the pitch. In alignment with the USL League Two season, the W League will kick off in May and end with the W League Playoffs and W League Final in late July.
To stay up to date on Tormenta FC’s new women’s team, fans can follow on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. To learn more about the USL W League, visit USLWLeague.com or follow the W League on Twitter at @USLWLeague.
