Tormenta FC is just days away from kicking off its 2025 USL League One season, and the excitement is palpable. South Georgia’s professional soccer team will take the field Friday night for the season opener, and this year’s match will hold extra significance as the only independent pro soccer game being held in the United States, putting Tormenta FC in the national spotlight.

After narrowly missing the playoffs in 2024, the team is gearing up for a fresh start. With a revamped roster and a renewed sense of purpose, Tormenta FC is looking to bounce back and make a strong push toward the postseason.

Among the new faces is forward Yaniv Banzini, who comes to South Georgia after leading the University of Vermont to its first-ever NCAA national championship.

On the defensive side, veteran Oscar Jimenez joins the squad after nine seasons in the USL Championship. Jimenez brings leadership and experience to the backline, providing stability and guidance to a team looking to rebuild.

With a total of 34 matches slated for the season, including 17 at Tormenta Stadium, the team’s schedule is packed with big matchups. The season officially begins this Friday against the Richmond Kickers with kickoff set for 7 p.m.