Holden Trent, the goalkeeper of the “Philadelphia Union”, died suddenly at the age of 25

The Union announced Saturday that backup goaltender Holden Trent has died suddenly at the age of 25.

No cause or date of death was given. All that is known is that on Thursday Trent’s family reported on his Instagram page that he was admitted to the hospital’s intensive care unit, without further details.

“The Philadelphia Union is devastated by the sad passing of Holden Trent,” the team said in a statement. “While he was a great 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 will be greatly missed. We send our deepest condolences to his family, his fiance and friends.”

Trent’s family said on Saturday: “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. Details about the service and celebration of life – later. Our family is deeply touched to see and feel your love for Holden.”

Trent was a native of Greensboro, North Carolina developed by the Union in December 2022 from High Point University. He subsequently signed a contract that was guaranteed through 2023 and had team options through 2026.

It is marked the first time The Union has used a pick in the Major League Soccer College Draft since 2018, and it’s the first time they’ve used a first-round pick since 2017. Before (and since), the team preferred to promote young prospects in their youth academy, so they traded for other assets.

Unfortunately, a series of injuries severely limited Trent’s playing time. In particular, the broken finger he suffered last year did not heal as planned, so he underwent surgery earlier this year.

He played six games in two years as a pro, the last on June 26 this season.

“Major League Soccer joins the Philadelphia Union and our entire soccer community in mourning the tragic death of Union goalkeeper Holden Trent,” commissioner Don Garber said in a statement. “A young goaltender with a bright future, Trent has shown determination and professionalism on a daily basis, contributing to a close-knit Philidelphia goaltending team.” We extend our deepest condolences to his fiancée, his family and friends, his teammates and the entire Philadelphia Union community.”

In addition, Garber said the league is “coordinating with the club to provide players and family members with the resources and support they need at this tragic time.”

The union said that “out of respect for Holden’s friends and family, there will be no further statement at this time” and asked that “the family’s privacy be respected as they grieve.”