INDIANAPOLIS – Indy Eleven today announced it had acquired forward Rodney Michael via transfer from USL League One club South Georgia Tormenta FC. Per club policy, terms of the transaction were not released.

Michael joins Indy Eleven after impressing while on trial during the team’s preseason. Rodney began his professional career last year with Tormenta FC, where he originally played for the club’s USL League Two side in order to retain his final season of collegiate eligibility before eventually being offered a professional contract to Tormenta FC’s League One squad. Michael made 16 appearances for Tormenta FC and recorded one goal, two assists and 13 key passes for the side.

“I cannot wait to put on the Indy Eleven shirt and give my all for the club,” said Michael. “I know how good this group is and what we can achieve this season, and I’m looking forward to playing my part.”

Michael spent his college career with UC Santa Barbara, where in three seasons with the Gauchos he started all-but-one of his 59 appearances, netted 23 goals, and tallied 15 assists. His accolades at UCSB included the 2017 Big West Freshman of the Year and nods to the 2017 & 2018 All-Big West First Teams and 2018 All-Far West Region Team. Michael was also an accomplished high school player in the state of California, being named the 2016-17 California Gatorade Soccer Player of the Year after leading Santa Barbara Soccer Club to a U18 National Championship in 2016.

“We’ve had a long look at Rodney throughout preseason and are thrilled to come to an agreement with Tormenta FC that brings his energy and skill into our squad,” said Indy Eleven Head Coach Mark Lowry. “Rodney is a player with fantastic instincts in and around the final third, and he’ll provide danger whether he is playing the final pass or finishing one off.”