South Georgia Tormenta FC proudly supports the United Soccer League’s (USL) historic decision to implement a promotion and relegation system, a change driven by club owners to align with global standards and enhance nationwide competition. This move positions Tormenta FC with the unprecedented opportunity to rise to top-tier status, potentially bringing premier soccer to Statesboro, Georgia, the state’s sole professional USL market.
Looking ahead, the USL plans to launch a new Division One league in the 2027-28 season, completing its vision for a three-tier professional system and making it the first professional sports league in the U.S. to adopt this model. This structure allows teams to earn promotion or face relegation based on seasonal performance, aligning with international standards and enhancing competition nationwide.
“This is a transformative moment for American soccer, and we’re thrilled to be at the forefront,” said Darin Van Tassell, Owner and President of Tormenta FC. “The USL’s decision opens new horizons for clubs like ours, proving that with dedication and performance, even teams from smaller markets can reach the pinnacle of the sport.”
Founded in 2015, Tormenta FC secured championship titles in both the USL W League and USL League One in 2022, underscoring its status as a formidable force in lower-division soccer. The club offers a comprehensive development pathway, starting from academy programs for children as young as two years old, embodying its motto, “Pros Start Here.”
As the USL embarks on this transformative journey, the club is ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities that promotion and relegation bring. Tormenta FC looks forward to the prospect of elevating Statesboro onto the national soccer stage.
More details about the implementation and structure of promotion and relegation will be shared in the coming months. For updates, please visit uslsoccer.com.
For more information or media inquiries, please contact Bernadette O’Donnell at bodonnell@tormentafc.com.
