Rodriguez most recently played with Colombian side Cortuluá FC in Categoría Primera B / Photo courtesy Tormenta FC
STATESBORO, Ga. – South Georgia Tormenta FC announced Tuesday that the club has signed Colombian defender Luis Rodriguez to its 2021 USL League One roster on a one-year deal with a club option. The center back comes to the United States for the first time with experience in Colombia’s first and second divisions, most recently playing for Cortuluá FC in Categoría Primera B.
"Luis is a player we have been analyzing and corresponding with throughout the last year," TFC Head Coach Ian Cameron. "He has a great hunger to come over to the States and make his mark."
"There will be an adaptation period both culturally and professionally, but Luis has all the human characteristics to be a success in our franchise, and on the field, he will bring great experience and toughness to our back line. We're excited to welcome him to Statesboro and USL League One soccer."
In 2019, Rodriguez finished the Cortuluá FC season with the most appearances for his team, totalling 38 matches in Categoría Primera B. In two seasons with Envigado FC, the Colombian center back started in 38 out of his total 41 matches in Categoría Primera A.
"Signing with Tormenta FC is a great blessing and opportunity to be able to give my best as a player and person and thus be able to achieve the goals set for the club with the help of God and everyone," Rodriguez said. “Going to the United States to the city of Statesboro means a lot to me. Leaving my country is a new challenge both personally and in sport. I am very grateful for this beautiful blessing. Vamos Tormenta!"
Rodriguez joins seven returners from the 2020 squad and new signees Craig McCall, Sergi Nus, Azaad Liadi and Kobe Perez on the club’s USL League One roster.