WINDSOR, Colo. – Northern Colorado Hailstorm FC announced on Thursday the club had exercised its contract option to retain goalkeeper Johan Peñaranda for the 2023 USL League One season. The transaction is pending league and federation approval.

Peñaranda had a stellar first professional campaign, appearing in 18 of the team’s 30 regular season contests. The 22-year-old started 17 of those and recorded 47 saves and five shutouts while posting a save percentage of 71.2 percent and a 1.13 goals-against average.

“Johan started 2022 as a second-choice goalkeeper and finished it as a first-choice goalkeeper,” said Hailstorm FC Head Coach Eamon Zayed. “I’m excited to see what year two holds for Johan. We’re looking to bring in another goalkeeper now that Tommy Olsen has left, and Johan will no doubt battle it out for that number one position.”

A product of the New York City FC Academy, Peñaranda competed collegiately at the University of Pittsburgh and Florida International University before joining the professional ranks. As he returns to Hailstorm FC for a second year, he believes he is up to the task of battling for the starting position, but more than anything he is just excited to have the opportunity.

“I’m excited to be a part of the Hailstorm for a second season, especially after being a part of the squad during the inaugural year,” said Peñaranda. “I’m looking forward to helping this team compete for a title.”