Philadelphia Union goalkeeper Holden Trent has died at the age of 25, according to a statement from his club.
On the Philadelphia Union website, an in memoriam page was posted with a photo of Trent, explaining that he died on Saturday afternoon, October 26. No cause of death or further details were given.
“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 statement read. “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,” it concluded.
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According to the Delaware County Daily Times, Trent had been hospitalized in intensive care on Thursday, October 24, five days after the end of the Union season.
Trent’s family posted to his Instagram account on Saturday, with a message for fans: “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,” adding that details on services and a celebration of life are forthcoming. “Our family is deeply touched to see and experience the love you all have for Holden.”
The Major League Soccer Players Association also mourned Trent in a statement: “The MLSPA and the entire player community are devastated by the tragic loss of Holden Trent,” they said. “Holden will be remembered not just as a dedicated competitor and teammate, but as a beloved son, brother, fiancé and friend. Our hearts are with his family and all who knew and loved him.
A native of Greensboro, North Carolina, Trent started college at West Virginia but then transferred to High Point University, where he was a senior captain and led the team to its first ever NCAA Tournament win. He was selected No. 28 overall by the Philadelphia Union in the 2023 MLS SuperDraft.
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Per the Daily Times, the Union held a moment of silence and showed Trent’s No. 13 before a Union II playoff game on Saturday night. Trent’s alma mater, High Point, also displayed his jersey on the sidelines during its game Saturday.
