IRVINE, Calif. – Orange County SC announced on Wednesday the club had signed forward Apolo Marinch to his first professional contract. The transaction was completed prior to the USL Championship Roster Freeze on Monday, Sept. 8.

A native of Willowick, Ohio, Marinch began his youth career with Cleveland-based FC Evolution and Croatia Juniors before joining the Columbus Crew Academy. By 2018, he had earned a spot on the Crew’s U12 Generation Adidas Cup team and quickly progressed through the academy ranks.

The 15-year-old is OCSC’s latest notable signing of 2025, following the addition of U.S. Youth National Team defender Tyson Espy in August.

“Apolo is an exceptional young talent whose technical quality and maturity stand out well beyond his age,” said President of Soccer Operations and General Manager Peter Nugent. “Despite being just 15, we believe he’s fully prepared to take the next step in his development and compete at the professional level. We’re excited to guide him through our proven pathway and help position him for future opportunities on the European stage.”

In March 2025, at 14 years, 10 months, and 11 days old, Marinch made history as the youngest-ever player to debut for Columbus Crew 2. A month later, he received his first U.S. Youth National Team call-up, joining the United States U-15 Men’s National Team training camp in West Palm Beach, Fla.

“The reason I joined Orange County SC was that they are doing great things with the youth players, and I hope OC can help me make my next step by way of their great European pathway,” said Marinch. “I’m excited to be joining OCSC for the upcoming playoff push. It is great working with all the players and coaches here, and I hope I can help the team win.”