Holden Trent, a backup goalkeeper for the Philadelphia Union, died on Saturday, the Major League Soccer club said in a statement.
He was 25.
The team did not provide a cause of death, but his family shared he had been admitted to intensive care.
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“The Philadelphia Union is devastated by the heartbreaking passing of Holden Trent,” the club said.
“While he was a wonderful player and fierce competitor, he was more importantly a devoted son, brother, fiancé, and teammate who made those around him better.
“He embodied the true meaning of determination, dedication and perseverance, and he will be deeply missed.
“We extend our greatest sympathies to his family, his fiancé and his friends.”
His grieving family thanked “everyone for your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time” in a statement on the goalkeeper’s Instagram page.
“Our family is deeply touched to see and experience the love you all have for Holden,” it said.
His management, Octagon Soccer, said Trent made the “selfless decision” to be a registered organ donor.
“His extraordinary generosity is now a beacon of hope for other families, as the organ donation process is currently in progress, offering the priceless gift of life to those in need,” Octagon said.
“Holden’s choice to become an organ donor is a powerful testament to his compassionate and giving nature. His family finds immense comfort in knowing that his legacy will continue through the lives he is saving.”
Trent, from Greensboro, North Carolina, was the 28th pick in the 2023 MLS SuperDraft out of High Point University.
While he had not yet played for the first team he had made several appearances for Union II this season.
“Major League Soccer joins the Philadelphia Union and our entire soccer community in mourning the tragic passing of Union goalkeeper Holden Trent,” MLS posted on X.