TUCSON, AZ (September 25, 2020) – FC Tucson defender Derrick “Tommy” Silva will depart from the club today following the start of his freshman semester at UCLA, the club announced today. Silva departs after making nine appearances and eight starts in the club’s USL League One 2020 season campaign.
“I am beyond thankful for my time with FC Tucson. I’m very appreciative of everyone at the club—the players who welcomed me into the team, Coach Galas and the training staff that believed in me and gave me an opportunity, and the athletic training staff and front office that work tirelessly to help each player,” said Silva after saying his goodbyes at Kino Sports Complex. “I am very proud to have FC Tucson representing my home town.”
Silva, 18, signed with FC Tucson on July 22 following his graduation from Utah’s Real Salt Lake Academy in May, and became the club’s first Development Academy signing of the 2020 season. The Tucson native is a longtime fan of FC Tucson, having attended games since he was 8 years old. Silva made his professional debut on Aug. 8, 2020, after coming on as a substitute in the 87th minute of the club’s match against Union Omaha. Following that match, Silva started the FC Tucson’s next eight consecutive matches and recorded a total of 721 minutes played.
“On behalf of the club, we’d like to thank Tommy for his contributions to the club this season,” said head coach, John Galas. “He’s been nothing short of exceptional. He’s a tremendous young professional, and we wish him nothing but the best as he begins his college career at UCLA.”
The highly-touted fullback committed to play soccer for UCLA before joining FC Tucson. Silva will study entrepreneurship at the renowned California University and aspires to create an environmental company along with continuing to play professionally after college.
The club is very thankful for Tommy Silva’s tireless efforts on and off the field. The defender made his last match a special one, with an assist to Elivelton after a charging run down the left flank in last night’s 2-1 win against Forward Madison FC. FC Tucson wishes him the best in his collegiate career with UCLA.
