December 2, 2022 – United Soccer League One (USL1) – South Georgia Tormenta FC News Release
South Georgia Tormenta FC defender Joshua Phelps
(South Georgia Tormenta FC)
STATESBORO, Ga. – South Georgia Tormenta FC has announced the transfer of club legend Joshua Phelps to Melbourne Knights FC of the National Premier Leagues Victoria (NPL Victoria), the second-tier of the Australian Soccer League System, for an undisclosed transfer fee.
Initially signing with Tormenta FC 2 in 2017, Phelps moved his way up to the first team and became the first player to reach 100 club appearances for South Georgia across all competitions. In September 2018, Phelps signed a professional contract with Tormenta FC, becoming the first player signed to a professional contract in the newly-formed USL League One. Phelps appeared in 84 matches for the Statesboro side in League One regular season play. He also helped the organization win its first-ever USL League One title in 2022.
“My time here at Tormenta FC has been huge regarding my development as a player and a person,” Joshua Phelps commented. “I have been able to help influence many areas within the club, from the front office, the Academy, the Ibis Foundation, and as a player. I can’t thank the organization enough, the owners in Darin and Netra Van Tassell, Jeff and Alaina Spencer, and the coaching staff: Ian, Tommo, Jordan, Jorge, and Drew; thanks for your continued trust and belief. Thanks to all the people behind the scenes – Dr. G, Brandon and Megan with Sports Psychology, Cam, and the Sports Science team. This operation wouldn’t be possible without your dedication. I can leave the club knowing it’s in a better place with phenomenal people who will continue what we began. I can finally check that box. We did it. We are champions.”
“Melbourne Knights is a club with a lot of history and success in Australia,” Phelps added. “I am excited to play under Ben Cahn while continuing to develop myself as a player. The decision to leave the U.S. and come back to play in Australia wasn’t easy, but the new challenge ahead of adding to the long history of Melbourne Knights excites me. The growth happening around Australian Football is exciting. To be a part of an ambitious club and to continue climbing the ladder of professional football is a challenge I’m keen for.”
Phelps departs South Georgia with 120 matches played across all competitions, ranking first in club appearances. Notably, with six appearances in the Lamar Hunt U.S….