STATESBORO, Ga. – South Georgia Tormenta FC’s Brittain Gottlieb has announced his commitment to Florida International University, where he will join an already established Men’s Soccer program led by head coach Kyle Russell. Gottlieb has come up through the Tormenta FC Academy ranks and has made several appearances for Tormenta FC 2 in USL League Two and for Tormenta FC under an Academy Contract.
“The academics and men’s soccer program at Florida International University are amongst the best in the nation,” Brittain Gottlieb commented. I am thankful to have the opportunity to represent Florida International for the upcoming fall season. I am very excited to be a member of such a prestigious program.”
Tormenta FC Defender Brittain Gottlieb
Gottlieb signed his first Academy contract with Tormenta FC in 2021. He made his professional debut on April 17, 2021, subbing for veteran center back Lars Eckenrode in the 85th minute. Gottlieb went on to play four more fixtures throughout the 2021 USL League One season.
The FIU defender also gained USL League Two experience with Tormenta FC 2 last summer. There, Gottlieb logged two assists, including one assist in the team’s 4-2 playoff victory over The Villages SC, entering the match in the 110th minute to make a significant impact.
“We are so excited that Brittain has committed to continue his education as well as play soccer at Florida International University,” Vice President of Tormenta FC Academy Brad Nein commented. “A program rich in tradition, FIU will be the ideal fit for Brittain to continue playing at a high level and compete for championships at the NCAA Division I level.”
Brad Nein, Vice President of Tormenta FC Academy
“As a member of the Academy over the last ten years, numerous coaches have poured knowledge into working with Brittain to reach this goal. Add in his determination, consistency, and poise; and you have a first-class individual going to a top school.”
Born in Savannah, Georgia, Gottlieb joined Tormenta FC Academy in July 2018 and played with the academy for three years before moving up to the first team.
In 2021, Florida International went 12-4-2 and was able to get a 4-1 win against No.1 Marshall University, the 2020 NCAA Champions. As a result, FIU earned its spot in the first round of the NCAA Division I Men’s Soccer Championship. Florida International now has the opportunity to make a deeper run in 2022, with Gottlieb hoping to prove to be a crucial squad member.
Tormenta FC Academy has helped five players sign professional Academy contracts within the club and remains one of the most successful youth systems for developing soccer players in South Georgia and the Lowcountry of South Carolina. In club history, Gottlieb is joined by Tristan Deloach, Grant Hampton, Stephen O’Hearn, and Tyler Bisseck as the first five TFC Academy players to sign with the first team.
Tormenta FC looks forward to welcoming supporters to its new 5,300-seat stadium set to open its doors in 2022. Supporters can now purchase season tickets in advance to guarantee their spot at every home match, with 12-month payment plans. For families and new fans, the club also offers Flex Ticket packages which include ten General Admission or VIP tickets redeemable at any regular-season home match.
