February 24, 2023 – United Soccer League One (USL1) – Greenville Triumph SC News Release
Greenville, SC – Nearly three weeks after the club’s first training session of 2023, the Greenville Triumph has selected trialist Hassan Gabo to the first team, they announced today. The 19-year-old defender will sign his first professional contract with the Triumph ahead of next month’s season opener.
A native of Somalia, Gabo moved to Utah in 2011 and developed his skills around the Salt Lake City soccer community. Between 2019-2020, he competed for VK Cobras FC youth club and had a stint with the Real Salt Lake U-17 squad within the USSDA’s Southwest Division. He split time between high schools, playing for Cottonwood High School and then Olympus High School, becoming a defensive stronghold for Olympus and graduating in 2021. Gabo also received his first international call-up to represent the Somalia under-20 side at the 2022 Arab Cub in Saudi Arabia.
Although a fresh face, Gabo already has ties with the Triumph. Cousins and former GTSC players, Omar Mohamed and Abdi Mohamed,connected and trained the defender through their soccer development program in Somalia, the 18×26 Academy. Gabo’s signing marks the first 18×26 Academy player to move into the professional ranks.
“Hassan has tremendous ability and a bright future,” said Head Coach John Harkes. “It’s very rare that you come across a 19-year-old that reads the game so well, matched with his pace and technical ability. He will be a welcomed addition to our defensive line. I am grateful for Omar Mohammed and his scouting and training company 18×26 Academy, and their leadership and commitment to growing young players!”
Gabo, primarily a center back, is the seventh defender to be added to the Greenville roster. He joins two all-league center backs, Evan Lee and Brandon Fricke, and fellow rookie Daniel Wu in the middle of the club’s strong defense. The Greenville Triumph will open their 2023 season on March 25th at 7:00 PM in Paladin Stadium against the Richmond Kickers. Season and single match tickets are on sale now.
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