MADISON, Wis. - Forward Madison FC announced on Wednesday that the club has signed defender Ronaldo Lomeli pending league and federation approval, adding a new piece to its 2021 roster in the lead-up to its season opener this Saturday. Lomeli, 23, started for the Flamingos in the team’s last three preseason games.

“I’m going to give it everything I have every single day,” Lomeli said. “I’m very, very thankful for the opportunity to start my career here, and hopefully I can return the favor by showing some results for the fans and for the team.”

Lomeli played as a deep-lying midfielder in college, but has found success at right back in Forward Madison’s preseason. According to head coach Carl Craig, Lomeli’s willingness to adapt to the new role exemplifies his overall professionalism. 

“Ronnie stuck it out, this is what he wanted to do, and here we are now giving him the opportunity,” Craig said. “He’s comfortable on the ball and he can read the game pretty well. I want him to keep pushing to get out of his comfort zone. If he continues to do that, I think he’ll have a bright future.”

Lomeli is from Los Angeles, and grew up with two older brothers who gave him his love for the sport. Lomeli played for San Jose State University from 2016-17 before transferring to UC-Riverside, where he was a regular starter and once scored an overtime winner against Cal Baptist in 2019.

A message from an old friend - current Forward Madison player Noah Fuson - led Lomeli to Forward Madison’s invite combine earlier this year, where caught the eye of the team’s coaching staff through his presence on the ball and knowledge of the game.

“The motto I live by is Siempre con Alegría - Always with Joy,” Lomeli said. “It’s about how you approach life. It’s about having a positive mindset and joy, and I think that’s an excellent way to carry yourself every day. I try to live that out.”