South Georgia Tormenta FC has signed two-time USL League One Goalkeeper of the Year Sean Lewis for the 2026 season. The announcement came on December 15, 2025, in Statesboro, Georgia, reuniting Lewis with head coach Mark McKeever and boosting the team’s defensive strength after his standout performances with One Knoxville SC.
This move comes as Tormenta FC aims to build a stronger squad following a challenging 2025 season. Lewis, known for his reliable saves and leadership, brings proven success to a team looking to climb the league standings.
Lewis Brings Championship Experience
Sean Lewis joins Tormenta FC after three strong seasons at One Knoxville SC. There, he helped the team win the USL League One title and the Players Shield in 2025.
His track record includes back-to-back Goalkeeper of the Year awards in 2024 and 2025. He became only the second player in league history to achieve this, following Dallas Jaye of Greenville Triumph SC.
Lewis posted impressive stats last season. He led with a 73.4 percent save rate among eligible keepers and tied for the most shutouts at 10.
This signing follows recent league trends, where teams like Knoxville have dominated with solid goalkeeping. Experts see Lewis as a key piece for Tormenta FCs rebuild.
Coach McKeever Praises the Addition
Head coach Mark McKeever expressed excitement about working with Lewis again. They share a history from past collaborations, which influenced the decision.
McKeever highlighted Lewis’s skills in building plays from the back. He also noted the keepers tactical wisdom and leadership qualities.
In a team statement, McKeever said the signing aligns with Tormenta FCs game model for 2026. This focus on experience could help shape the clubs identity.
The coach believes Lewis will mentor younger players. His presence might stabilize a defense that struggled in recent matches.
Fans have reacted positively on social media, seeing this as a step toward playoff contention.
Key Stats from Lewis’s Career
Lewis has built a solid professional journey across leagues. His numbers show consistent performance under pressure.
Here is a quick look at his recent achievements in a table format:
| Season | Team | Saves | Shutouts | Save Percentage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | One Knoxville SC | 59 | 10 | 73.4% |
| 2024 | One Knoxville SC | 62 | 8 | 72.1% |
| 2023 | One Knoxville SC | 55 | 7 | 70.5% |
These figures highlight his growth and reliability. In 2025, he also posted a goals-against average of 0.88, tying for the league best.
Beyond stats, Lewis contributed to Knoxvilles championship run. His calm demeanor in high-stakes games earned praise from peers.
From Australia to USL Stardom
Lewis started his pro career with Olympia FC Warriors in Australias Southern Championship. This laid the foundation for his move to the United States.
He then played in the USL Championship for teams like Indy Eleven, FC Tulsa, and Penn FC. These experiences honed his skills in competitive environments.
At 33 years old, Lewis combines veteran savvy with athletic ability. His path reflects the global nature of soccer talent migration.
This background makes him a versatile asset for Tormenta FC. It also ties into broader trends of international players succeeding in American leagues.
Recent events, like the USL League Ones expansion to 18 teams for 2026, add context to such signings. Clubs are scouting proven talent to stay competitive.
What This Means for 2026 Season
Tormenta FC finished mid-table in 2025, prompting roster changes. Lewis’s arrival addresses a key need after parting ways with former keeper Austin Pack.
Analysts predict this could improve their defensive record. With a full home-and-home schedule starting March 7, 2026, early wins will be crucial.
Potential impacts include:
- Stronger team morale from a proven winner.
- Better play distribution from the backline.
- Increased fan engagement in Statesboro.
The league announced its 2026 format recently, emphasizing balanced competition. Tormenta FC aims to leverage Lewis for a title push.
Other teams, like Tampa Bay Rowdies, have made similar moves, signaling an active offseason.
Fan Reactions and Future Outlook
Social media buzzed with excitement after the announcement. Supporters shared posts celebrating the two-time award winner.
One fan noted Lewis’s footwork skills, vital in modern soccer. Others discussed how this fits into the clubs long-term strategy.
Looking ahead, Tormenta FC plans more signings to complement Lewis. The team seeks to blend youth and experience for success.
This move aligns with USL League Ones growth, including new awards and fan votes for saves and goals. It positions Tormenta FC as a contender.
Share your thoughts on this signing in the comments below. Did Tormenta FC make the right choice? Let us know and spread the word to fellow soccer fans.
