Soccer community mourns the death of Philadelphia Union goalkeeper Holden Trent

Tributes poured in over the weekend from the soccer community after the news that Philadelphia Union goalkeeper Holden Trent died Saturday. He was 25 years old.

Trent’s family announced his death on his Instagram account Saturday, saying, “Holden passed away this afternoon surrounded by his family and friends.”

“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,” The Union wrote in its announcement. “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.”

Trent was admitted to intensive care on Thursday. No cause of death has been given at this time. 

A native of Greensboro, N.C., Trent was selected by the Union with the 28th pick of the 2023 MLS SuperDraft from High Point University in North Carolina, where he was team captain his senior year. He transferred to High Point from West Virginia University, and also previously played with North Carolina Fusion U23, the Charlotte Independence, Des Moines Menace and South Georgia Tormenta 2. He played six games with the Philadelphia Union II. 

The Union’s season ended without the team making the playoffs this year, but the Union II made its postseason in the MLS Next Pro league. The team defeated Crown Legacy FC in the Eastern Conference semifinals Saturday. Players and fans paid tribute to Trent at the game.

After the victory, Union II head coach Marlon LeBlanc had this to say about how the team reacted to the sudden news and honored Trent with the victory (H/T @JoserNunez91).

Tributes also came in from MLS and its commissioner, Don Garber, as well as the league’s Players Association and USL League Two. Broadcasts of MLS coverage in Spanish and English, as well as High Point’s game on Saturday included tributes to Trent as well.

Former Union forward Julián Carranza dedicated his goal for new club Feyenoord on Sunday to Trent.

Trent’s former teams and the sports agency representing him also posted their condolences.

Family ????#GoHPU pic.twitter.com/ez6vDpvczF— High Point University Soccer (@HPUMSOCCER) October 27, 2024

South Georgia Tormenta FC mourns the loss of former Tormenta 2 player Holden Trent. Holden’s unique spirit and character will always be remembered and celebrated by all that knew him. We send our deepest condolences to Holden’s family, teammates, coaches and friends. pic.twitter.com/iGDlllxdx2— South Georgia Tormenta FC (@Tormenta_FC) October 26, 2024

As have Union captain Alejandro Bedoya, the Sons of Ben supporters group, and the other Philly sports teams.

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