Philadelphia Union player Holden Trent has died. He was 25.
On Saturday, Oct. 26, the Major League Soccer club announced that the goalkeeper died earlier that day.
“The Philadelphia Union is devastated by the heartbreaking passing of Holden Trent,” the Union wrote in a statement. “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,” the statement continued.
The team said it would not be providing any further details about Trent’s cause of death out of respect for his friends and family.
Trent’s family released their own statement on his Instagram account on Saturday, writing that details about his funeral services would be forthcoming.
“We want to thank everyone for your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. Holden passed away this afternoon surrounded by his family and friends,” the family wrote. “Our family is deeply touched to see and experience the love you all have for Holden.”
Originally from Greensboro, N.C., Trent was drafted as the 28th pick overall in the 2023 MLS SuperDraft after graduating from High Point University, where he was the Big South Goalkeeper of the Year in 2021 and 2022.
ESPN reported that Trent had not yet made his first-team debut for the club, but he had made six appearances over the course of the most recent season for the Union’s affiliate team. He wore jersey number 13 for the team.
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The MLS released its own statement about Trent’s death on X (formerly Twitter), writing, “Major League Soccer joins the Philadelphia Union and our entire soccer community in mourning the tragic passing of Union goalkeeper Holden Trent.”
“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,” the statement continued.
“We extend our deepest condolences to his fiancée, his family and friends, his teammates and the entire Philadelphia Union community,” the league added. “MLS is coordinating with the club to provide players and family members with the resources and support they need during this tragic time.”
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