Union goalkeeper Holden Trent has died aged 25

Union goalkeeper Holden Trent died on Saturday, the club announced. He was 25 years old.

The goalkeeper was hospitalized in intensive care on Thursday, five days after the end of the Union season. The club did not provide details about the cause of death.

“The Philadelphia Union is devastated by the heartbreaking death of Holden Trent,” the union said in a club statement. “Although he was a wonderful player and fierce competitor, above all he was a devoted son, brother, fiancé and teammate who made those around him better. He embodied the true meaning of determination, dedication and perseverance and we will miss him deeply. We extend our deepest condolences to his family, fiancé and friends.”

Trent's family posted a message on his Instagram account announcing his death and thanking him for their prayers and support. “Our family is deeply touched to see and experience the love you all have for Holden,” they wrote.

Trent was selected with the 28th overall pick in the 2023 MLS SuperDraft by High Point. He hasn't played in a competitive game for the Union for two years and has been on the bench as an unused substitute eight times this year. In the spring he suffered a hand injury that limited him for three months.

Trent made six appearances for Union II in the MLS Next Pro, including just one this season.

A native of Greensboro, North Carolina, Trent transferred from West Virginia to High Point, where he served as senior captain and led the team to its first-ever NCAA Tournament victory.

Originally published: October 26, 2024 at 3:54 p.m