STATESBORO, Ga. – South Georgia Tormenta FC has announced the four nominees for the month of April’s Tormenta FC Player of the Month (USL League One) award. The community will help decide the winner. Defender Davey Mason, midfielders Tobias Otieno and Mukwelle Akale and Jackson Khoury are all up for the award. In April, the four nominated players stepped up to help the team obtain three wins across all competitions, including a 2-1 win over USL Championship side Rio Grande Valley FC in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. In league play, South Georgia obtained two crucial wins against Greenville Triumph SC and One Knoxville SC, two teams that will be battling for a playoff position come the end of the season.
Akale has successfully transitioned his outstanding form from March to April. The winger continues to be a constant starter for the reigning League One champion and is a leader on the offensive side. Khoury was named to USL League One’s Team of the Week twice in the month of April after securing his first professional goals. The Lebanese youth international leads the team in goals scored.
Voting for the Tormenta FC Player of the Month (USL League One) award will run through Monday, May 8, at 11:59 p.m. ET, with daily voting permitted. The winner will be determined via a weighted vote from the following three voting bodies:
- A fan vote (poll below) will comprise 60 percent of the poll.
- The Tormenta FC staff ballots will comprise 20 percent of the poll.
- Media ballots comprise 20 percent of the poll.
Voting results will be announced on Tuesday, May 9.
Player of the Month Nominees:
Davey Mason, Defender: Mason showcased commitment and skill, featuring in every single game in April. Mason leads South Georgia in interceptions (10). Mason’s offensive contributions consistently pose a significant threat to the opposing teams’ defensive units. Mason’s versatile impact extends beyond his defensive duties.
Jackson Khoury, Midfielder: April 2023 has been a breakthrough month for the first-year professional. Khoury has showcased remarkable growth by scoring his first three professional goals in three consecutive games against Triumph SC, Lexington SC and One Knox SC. Khoury’s ability to create opportunities is evident through precise crosses into the dangerous areas. Khoury leads the team in most minutes played in April after featuring in every single minute of every game played in league play.
Tobias Otieno, Midfielder: Otieno has showcased exceptional control over the midfield, orchestrating the team’s play in the most efficient manner. Otieno was honored with the captain’s armband in several matches this season, a signifier of Otieno’s leadership qualities and influence. Otieno’s ability to distribute precise passes ensure seamless transitions and create scoring opportunities. Otieno leads the team in passes (330) and tackles won (16).
Mukwelle Akale, Midfielder: Akale stands out among the group with his unwavering work rate and relentless ethic. Akale’s constant pressing and challenging toward opposing sides have created many opportunities for South Georgia. Akale has demonstrated an unmatched determination to help the team succeed regardless of the role assigned to him. Akale leads the team in shots (8).
