San Antonio FC announced their youngest ever player signing on Thursday afternoon. The team formally added Midfielder Leo Torres to the 2019 Roster. Torres is the first full-time SAFC Pro Academy player to sign with the first team. As if that wasn't enough of a history making move, Torres additionally becomes the youngest professional signing in USL Championship history. A remarkable achievement for the young prospect. Torres will finish out his SAFC Academy assignment as part of the U-15 squad and will integrate with senior team soon thereafter. Their U-15 season ends later this summer.
Pro Academy director Nick Evans was quick to share his excitement on social media:
And more big name accolades quickly followed as Managing Director Tim Holt got in on the action, as well as a video presentation from SAFC.
Torres was also thrilled with the news, saying via a team press release, “I’m excited and honored to play for this club. I would like to thank all of my academy coaches, the first team staff and the entire organization for this opportunity. I’m thrilled to be the first academy player to sign with the first team, and I look forward to continuing to progress while representing my city.”
Torres will face a crowded Midfield ahead of him and a Midfield loaded with talent when he joins his Senior teammates. While his 2019 impact is likely to be minimal, the groundwork for future success has already been laid out for him by fellow Academy alum Ethan Bryant who was recently called up to the US Men's National Team U-18 Camp. Add that to SAFC's willingness to give opportunities to these up and coming players and the sky is the limit for Torres in San Antonio.
Head Coach Darren Powell added, “This is a wonderful opportunity for him (Torres) to take the next steps as we look to integrate him into the squad while he keeps evolving, working hard, and showing good character.”
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IMAGES: SAN ANTONIO FC TWITTER