STATESBORO, Ga. – Former South Georgia Tormenta FC 2 midfielder JC Ngando, goalkeeper Holden Trent and defender Salvatore Mazzaferro were selected fifth, 28th, and 72nd overall in the 2023 Major League Soccer Superdraft today by Vancouver Whitecaps FC, the Philadelphia Union, and Austin FC, respectively. Ngando was one of 11 players in the 2023 MLS SuperDraft to be selected into the 2023 Generation adidas class; meanwhile, Trent stood out as one of the best keepers in the nation after excelling in 2022 with High Point University. Mazzaferro, a University of South Florida standout, helped South Georgia starred in League Two play throughout the 2022 season.
“We are well aware at Tormenta FC 2 that we only play a small role in the journey of these talented young men as they strive to reach their professional aspirations. That being said, we are proud to be able to attract, work with, and develop players such as JC, Holden and Sal within our USL League Two framework. It is a testament to the environment and platform that Tormenta is providing for elite college players, and it is something we plan on continuing as we move forward.”
Tom Morris, Tormenta FC 2 Head Coach
With Tormenta FC 2, Ngando showcased a robust offensive presence throughout the year. Ngando was named to USL League Two’s 2022 Southern All-Conference Team of the Year with five goals and three assists in 11 games.
“We are delighted for JC to earn a Generation Adidas contract and to be drafted as the 5th overall pick in the MLS SuperDraft. JC has been through a lot on and off the field in order to earn this opportunity, so we couldn’t be more happy for him. He is one of those special attacking talents that gets the crowd off their feet any time he picks up the ball; I’m excited for him to show the Whitecap fans what he’s all about.”
Tom Morris, Tormenta FC 2 Head Coach
The SoCon Player of the Year, J.C. Ngando, contributed 14 assists in 2022, making him one of the top players in the nation. Ngando helped UNCG to a historic NCAA Division I Quarterfinal finish for the first time in program history.
Despite only playing three games with the navy and magenta, Trent played a pivotal role, only conceding two goals and remaining undefeated throughout his time with the League Two squad.
“Holden was one of the most well rounded goalkeeper’s we have had through our USL 2 team. His stature and leadership alongside his technical ability will give him a great opportunity to successfully make the grade at the MLS level. Although we were only able to work with him for a short period, I am confident through his fierce competitiveness and will to be the best that he will have an excellent career in the game. We wish him all the best at Philadelphia Union.”
Tom Morris, Tormenta FC 2 Head Coach
With High Point University, Trent helped the Panthers obtain its first-ever NCAA Tournament win and shutout, with a 2-0 victory on the road at the University of North Carolina. Trent was also named Big South Goalkeeper of the Year in 2021 and 2022.
Mazzaferro played eight games for Tormenta FC 2 and was quickly identified as one of the best defenders in League Two. Mazzaferro is widely known for bringing an aggressive defensive style of play and winning tough challenges on the ground and in the air.
“Sal is a coaches dream and Austin FC are going to enjoy working with him. He is a tenacious defender, a good footballer, but best of all he is always dialed into the “what’s next” mentality that we effectuate here at Tormenta. I can’t wait to see what he achieves in the game as there won’t be many lads out there who will seize this opportunity more than him.”
Tom Morris, Tormenta FC 2 Head Coach
Since 2019, Mazzaferro has helped form one of the stingiest defenses in the nation. With over 50 games played since joining South Florida, Mazzaferro consolidated himself into a core element of the defense.
To note, Ngando is the first Tormenta FC 2 player to be selected to a Generation adidas class and is the highest-ever drafted player from Tormenta FC 2.
Led by Head Coach Tom Morris in 2022, Tormenta FC 2 is the club’s pre-professional team that seeks to play an exciting brand of soccer featuring elite local, national, and international players. Since beginning play in 2016, TFC 2 has helped nearly 50 players achieve their professional dreams. In 2018, TFC 2 finished its season as champions of the Deep South Division. In 2019, TFC 2 repeated as Deep South Division champions and won the League Two Southern Conference title, reaching the League Two Semifinals for the first time in club history.
For additional information and scheduling interviews, email: epintor@tormentafc.com.