By Camryn Brooks
Statesboro, Ga – April 9, 2024 – South Georgia Tormenta FC has signed Natalia Santangelo, a standout defender, to its roster for the upcoming Summer USL W League season. With an impressive collegiate career and a promising future, Santangelo joins the Tormenta family with a wealth of talent and experience.
Head Coach Jim Robbins spoke on his newest left back, saying, “We are looking forward to having Natalia join us this year after missing last season due to injury. She is an energetic, exciting left-sided attacking back who loves getting forward and creating chances for her team. She is very quick and athletic and is strong in 1v1s on both sides of the ball. She can provide all the serves needed from wide positions, and she can score goals in and around the 18. She is one of the top left backs in the country, and we are excited to have her play here at Tormenta FC.”
Santangelo’s journey to Tormenta FC has been marked by dedication, perseverance, and a passion for the game. During her time at Virginia Commonwealth University, Santangelo showcased her exceptional skill and leadership on the field. As a junior in 2022, she started all 19 games for the Rams, contributing to the team’s success with a game-winning goal against William & Mary. Additionally, Santangelo played a pivotal role in producing eight shutouts and demonstrated her offensive proficiency with seven shots on goal out of 14 total shots.
Despite facing challenges, including an injury that sidelined her senior season, Santangelo’s resilience and determination have been unwavering. Her collegiate accolades, including being part of the Atlantic 10 Regular Season Championship team in 2021, speak volumes about her commitment to excellence.
Before her collegiate career, Santangelo talent was evident as she earned recognition at U.S. Training Centers, U.S. Combines, and ID2 Camp. Her high school achievements, including leading her team to consecutive division titles and a state championship, underscore her impact on the field.
Santangelo expressed her excitement about joining South GA Tormenta FC, stating, “This will be my first summer playing in the USL W Summer League, and I am very excited to be a part of the Tormenta Nation! I chose to play here to be able to play with and compete against many of the top players in the U.S. I want to be surrounded by a coaching staff and team that will provide a competitive environment and high-intensity training each day. Being a part of Tormenta FC will allow me to play at a high level and grow as a player, while also providing me with amazing resources and an amazing environment from the coaching staff and players on the team! Can’t wait to get started!”
As South Georgia Tormenta FC prepares for the Summer W League season, Santangelo’s presence promises to bring depth, skill, and leadership to the squad. Her addition underscores the club’s commitment to assembling a competitive team capable of achieving success on the field.
Founded in 2015, Tormenta FC is a professional soccer club based in Statesboro, Georgia. Tormenta FC competes in the professional USL League One and the pre-professional USL W League, under the United Soccer League (USL) and has also established a thriving academy system throughout South Georgia and the Lowcountry of South Carolina.
For further information or scheduling interviews, please contact Noah Schroyer at (770) 871-8654 or email nschroyer@tormentafc.com or Caroline Boykin at (912) 667-9422 or email cboykin@tormentafc.com.
