The Philadelphia Union announced on Saturday that goalkeeper Holden Trent has died at the age of 25.
“The Philadelphia Union is devastated by the heartbreaking passing of Holden Trent. While he was a wonderful player and fierce competitor, he was more importantly a devoted son, brother, fiancé, and teammate who made those around him better. He embodied the true meaning of determination, dedication and perseverance, and he will be deeply missed. We extend our greatest sympathies to his family, his fiancé, and his friends.
Out of respect to Holden’s friends and family, there will be no further statements at this time and ask that their privacy is respected as they grieve.
Trent was admitted to the intensive care unit on Thursday. No cause of death was revealed by the Union.
“Major League Soccer joins the Philadelphia Union and our entire soccer community in mourning the tragic passing of Union goalkeeper Holden Trent,” said MLS Commissioner Don Garber in a statement.
“A young goalkeeper with a bright future, Trent showcased determination and professionalism every day as he contributed to the close-knit goalkeeping unit at Philadelphia.
“We extend our deepest condolences to his fiancée, his family and friends, his teammates and the entire Philadelphia Union community. MLS is coordinating with the club to provide players and family members with the resources and support they need during this tragic time.”
The Trent family posted a message on Instagram Saturday thanking everyone for their thoughts and prayers after announcing the goalkeeper’s death.
“Our family is deeply touched to see and experience the love you all have for Holden,” the message read.
Trent, a Greensboro, North Carolina native, was the 28th overall pick in the 2023 MLS SuperDraft. He signed a contract to join the MLS side in Feb. 2023 after being a three-year starter at High Point University. He served as an unused sub eight times this past season the Union and made six appearances for the Union II squad in MLS Next Pro.
