Press Release

The Manchester United academy product joins Phoenix Rising after playing domestically for Inter Miami CF, Loudoun United, Sacramento Republic, and Portland Timbers 2.

Phoenix Rising has signed right-back Harvey Neville, pending league and federation approval.

“I’m thrilled to join Phoenix Rising, one of the best clubs in the USL. Getting the chance to learn and grow under Coach Pa was a big draw for me, and it’s clear the club is building something special here,” said Neville. “I’m eager to help the team chase trophies this season and prove myself as one of the best fullbacks in the league.”

Neville began his development in Manchester United’s academy system, joining the club in 2013 as a 10-year-old. He spent seven years in Manchester United’s academy, had a brief stint with Valencia’s youth team in Spain, and played an additional two years with Manchester City’s academy. Neville later signed a professional contract with Inter Miami II, where he earned a call-up to the first team and made his competitive debut for Inter Miami in May 2022. Over the next two seasons, he appeared in 10 more matches for Inter Miami before transitioning to the Portland Timbers system.

“We have players at right back, but Harvey brings valuable experience with his background. He’s been in the Manchester United academy, played in MLS, and competed in the USL, so he has the pedigree and versatility we’re looking for,” said Phoenix Rising FC Head Coach Pa-Modou Kah. “He’s played multiple positions, and I’m excited to work with him and see what he can contribute.”

Split between Inter Miami II and Portland Timbers 2 in MLS Next, Neville made 44 appearances over four seasons and recorded eight assists. Neville was mostly featured in the back line, playing as both a right back and left back with the clubs, but spent some time in the midfield as a right and holding midfielder.

Neville also has experience in USL League 1 and the USL Championship, starting with Fort Lauderdale CF in 2021. In 2023, Neville returned to the USL on loan with Loudoun United, where he made seven appearances and tallied two assists. Harvey ended last season on loan with Sacramento Republic, where he made 10 appearances after joining the club in September, playing as a right back and right midfielder.

Neville has also represented his nation at the youth level, earning one appearance with the Republic of Ireland U19 team.

Harvey Neville: By the Numbers

• 11 MLS appearances with Inter Miami CF
• Three U.S. Open Cup appearances with Inter Miami CF
• 44 games played in MLS NEXT Pro with Portland Timbers 2 and Inter Miami
• International experience with the Republic of Ireland U-19

Transaction: Phoenix Rising FC Signs Harvey Neville
Name: Harvey Neville
Position: Right-Back
DOB: June 26, 2002 (22)
Born: Manchester, United Kingdom
Former Club: Portland Timbers 2
Height: 5-11
Weight: 161

The club will face three MLS teams during preseason and will open its final preseason match to the public, featuring a showdown between the team’s veterans and youth players and revealing its 2025 kits

(Phoenix, AZ) – Phoenix Rising FC has unveiled its 2025 preseason schedule, featuring matches against three MLS clubs and concluding with a game at Phoenix Rising Soccer Stadium, where the team’s veteran players will take on its younger talent and the club will reveal its 2025 kits.

“Typically, teams play against USL competition during preseason, but we’ll face them plenty during the season. For me, it’s about testing our boys against different competition—teams that present unique challenges,” said Phoenix Rising Head Coach Pa-Modou Kah. “Playing three MLS teams is a fantastic opportunity for our players to experience the level they’re striving for and need to reach. It also allows us, as a club, to evaluate how we measure up.”

The highlight of the preseason schedule is the intrasquad scrimmage, the Red vs. Black match, where assistant coaches Darnell King and Vikram Virk will each lead a team—one comprised of the team’s seasoned veterans and the other featuring younger players. The match will take place at 7:00 p.m. on February 28 at Phoenix Rising Soccer Stadium.

The February 28 match will also serve as the unveiling of the club’s 2025 kits, with each team showcasing a new set. It is the only preseason match open to the public, and tickets are on sale now. Fans in attendance can enjoy specialty concession items, which will be available throughout the season, and purchase merchandise at the Just Sports tent.

“There’s healthy competition not just between Darnell and Vik, but across the entire squad,” said Kah. “With fans in attendance, it’ll feel like a proper match—an exciting way to bring them into the experience. The jersey reveal adds something special for both the players and the fans, and I’m really looking forward to it.”

Season ticket members will receive complimentary access to the February 28 match as part of their membership and exclusive access to the February 22 matchup, where Phoenix Rising will host Saint Louis CITY FC 2. This game will be the first public opportunity to see the team’s revamped roster in action.

Phoenix Rising’s preseason schedule begins with matches against Major League Soccer’s San Diego FC (Jan. 25), LAFC (Feb. 2), and Charlotte FC (Feb. 10). These games, along with a February 15 match against Phoenix College, will be played behind closed doors.

“Preseason is all about building cohesion, relationships, and understanding our style of play,” said Kah. “Those are the key takeaways I want for this team, and I believe we’ll achieve that.”

Risings Full Preseason Schedule:

• Saturday, January 25 at San Diego FC (Snapdragon Stadium)
• Sunday, February 2 at LAFC (Coachella Valley)
• Monday, February 10 at Charlotte FC (Coachella Valley)
• Saturday, February 15 vs. Phoenix College (Phoenix Rising Soccer Stadium)
• Saturday, February 22 vs. Saint Louis CITY FC 2 (Phoenix Rising Soccer Stadium)
• Friday, February 28, Intrasquad Scrimmage & Kit Reveal (Phoenix Rising Soccer Stadium)

Find tickets for every 2025 regular-season home match, as well as the February 28 exhibition match, at phxrisingfc.com/tickets. Regular-season tickets start at just $15, with significant discounts and added perks for season ticket members. Season ticket packages start at $200.

Phoenix Rising FC has announced the loan of defender Edgardo Rito to Caracas FC for the 2025 season, pending league and federation
approval. Rito, 28, joined Phoenix Rising FC ahead of the 2024 USL Championship season. During the 2024 campaign, he made 31 appearances for the club, starting 21 matches and logging 1,766 minutes — the sixth-highest total on the squad. He contributed one goal and one assist.

Before joining Phoenix Rising FC, Rito played for several clubs, including New York Red Bulls II, Oakland Roots SC, and Hartford Athletic. Notably, he was named to the USL Championship All-League First Team in 2022 while with Oakland Roots SC.

Transaction: Rising loans Edgardo Rito to Caracas FC
Name: Edgardo Rito
Position: Defender
DOB: February 17, 1996 (28)
Born: El Vigía, Venezuela
Height: 5-5
Weight: 140

Phoenix Rising FC has traded Gabriel Torres to El Paso Locomotive FC, pending league and federation approval, the club announced today.

Terms of the deal will not be disclosed.

“Gabi showed a dedication and made invaluable contributions on and off the field in his three seasons with the organization,” said Phoenix Rising Club President Bobby Dulle. “His efforts left a lasting impression, not the least of which was helping the club earn its first USL Championship title in 2023. We wish him the very best as he continues his career.”

Torres, 28, joined Phoenix Rising FC on September 23, 2022, and made 52 appearances across all competitions. During his time with the club, Torres scored four goals, provided eleven assists, and played a key role in securing Phoenix Rising’s first-ever USL Championship title.

A native of Salvador, Bahia, Brazil, Torres began his career at the University of the District of Columbia, where he delivered an impressive college record with 34 goals and 21 assists in 55 appearances. Before joining Rising, Torres played professionally for clubs including Hartford Athletic in the USL Championship and The Villages SC in USL PDL.

Transaction: Rising trades Gabriel Torres to El Paso Locomotive FC
Name: Gabriel Torres
Position: Defender/Midfielder
DOB: August 1, 1996 (28)
HT: 5-11
WT: 170
Born: Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
Hometown: Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
Twitter: @gabitorres

Henry joins Phoenix Rising from Memphis 901 FC following a decorated career in the Canadian Premier League

Phoenix Rising has signed Canadian goalkeeper Triston Henry to a contract, pending league and federation approval.

Henry, a 30-year-old native of Scarborough, Ontario, brings over a decade of professional experience to Phoenix Rising. He first gained recognition with Toronto Lynx and in the USL Super-20 League, winning two championship titles and posting clean sheets in both finals.

“We’re excited to have Triston joining us here at the club, he has a ton of experience and knows what it takes to win at the highest level,” said Phoenix Rising Goalkeeper Coach Cory Robertson. “Adding someone with his pedigree is huge for the team, and his leadership and consistency will make a big difference for us. I’m looking forward to working with him and seeing the impact he’ll have both on and off the field as we push for success this season.”

Henry began his semi-professional career in 2015 with Sigma FC in League1 Ontario, earning All-Star selections in both 2017 and 2018. He made his professional debut in 2019, joining Forge FC in the Canadian Premier League (CPL). Over six seasons with Forge FC, he played a key role in securing four CPL championships and earned the CPL Golden Glove award twice, in 2020 and 2023. In 2024, Henry transitioned to the USL Championship, joining Memphis 901 FC. During his brief tenure with the club, he recorded an impressive save percentage of 76.7% across seven matches.

“I knew from my first visit to Phoenix that this is where I’d want to be – it’s a club that wants to win and fight for championships each year and demands the best from you on and off the field,” said Henry. “The atmosphere, the fans, and the energy they bring to the game is amazing, and the community and city of Phoenix is beautiful. This is a top club in every aspect of soccer, and the best type of environment for me to be in, and I’m eager to get started and contribute to the success of this club.”

Triston Henry: By the Numbers

• 164 total league appearances across all clubs
• 38 clean sheets with Forge FC in the CPL
• 4 CPL championships (2019, 2020, 2022, 2023)
• 2 CPL Golden Glove awards (2020, 2023)

Transaction: Phoenix Rising FC Signs Triston Henry

• Name: Triston Henry
• Position: Goalkeeper
• DOB: September 8, 1993 (30)
• Born: Scarborough, Ontario, Canada
• Former Club: Memphis 901 FC
• Height: 6-0
• Weight: 183

The MLS NEXT champion reinforces Rising’s midfield joining the club on loan from FC Dallas

Phoenix Rising FC has signed Haitian international, 22-year-old midfielder Carl Sainte on a season long loan from FC Dallas, pending league and federation approval.

“Carl is a consummate professional and a leader who leads by example,” said Phoenix Rising Head Coach Pa-Modou Kah. “His strong technical and tactical abilities set him apart. Having had the pleasure of working with him at FC Dallas, I look forward to seeing him bring the same passion and dedication to help deliver silverware to the club.”

Sainte, born in Grand-Goave, Haiti, began his professional journey with Violette AC, contributing to their Ligue Haïtienne title during the 2020–21 season. After showcasing his talents, Sainte transitioned to the USL Championship, signing with New Mexico United in 2021, where he made his debut in a 2-0 victory over Las Vegas Lights FC.

In 2022, Sainte joined North Texas SC in MLS NEXT Pro, where he made 22 appearances over two seasons, scoring one goal and providing three assists. He played a key role in helping the club win an MLS NEXT Pro championship. His performances earned him a move to FC Dallas’ first team, where he signed a two-year contract in 2024. Sainte made his first-team debut in April 2024 in a match against the Houston Dynamo.

“I am thrilled to join Phoenix Rising and take this exciting next step in my career. Having admired the club for many years, it’s a dream come true to play for a team that aligns with my ambitions to grow as a player,” said Sainte. “My focus this season is to contribute both on and off the field, helping the team achieve success and push for the league title.”

On the international stage, Sainte has represented Haiti’s senior national team in 20 matches, including the CONCACAF Nations League and 2023 Gold Cup. He previously featured at the youth level during the 2019 FIFA U-17 World Cup, where he tallied one goal in eight appearances.

Carl Sainte: By the Numbers

• 20 international caps for Haiti’s senior team
• Eight appearances and one goal at the 2019 FIFA U-17 World Cup
• 22 appearances, one goal, and three assists with North Texas SC
• Contributed to Violette AC’s 2020-21 Ligue Haïtienne championship

Transaction: Phoenix Rising FC Signs Carl Sainte
Name: Carl Sainte
Position: Midfield – Defensive Midfield
DOB: August 9, 2002 (22)
Born: Grand-Goave, Haiti
Former Club: FC Dallas
Height: 6-0
Weight: 181

Noble Okello joins Phoenix Rising, having played more than 100 professional matches at just 24 years old

Phoenix Rising FC has signed Canadian international and defensive midfielder Noble Okello to a contract, pending league and federation approval as well as receipt of his P-1 Visa.

Standing at six feet five inches tall, Okello, 24, brings versatility to the Rising midfield. The Toronto-born player joins the squad following the 2024 season with Atlanta United 2 in MLS NEXT Pro, where he tallied three goals and two assists across 26 appearances.

“Noble Okello is a player who embodies the qualities we value at Phoenix Rising,” said Phoenix Rising Head Coach Pa-Modou Kah. “His combination of technical skill, physicality, and professional experience adds a significant layer to our midfield. We are thrilled to have him join our team and look forward to integrating him into our system as we aim to achieve great things together.”

Okello started his professional journey in the Toronto FC Academy, signing with Toronto FC II in 2017 and earning a first-team contract in 2019, where he made 23 MLS appearances. He also played for New England Revolution II, Atlanta United 2, and Denmark’s HB Koge, making 12 appearances and scoring one goal for the Danish club.

On the international stage, Okello has earned two caps for Canada’s senior national team, debuting in 2020. He has also represented Canada at the U17, U20, and U21 levels, contributing to the country’s growing soccer presence on the world stage.

“Phoenix Rising is a club that is highly regarded in the USL, and if you ask players in the league where they would rather play, I think Phoenix sits right there at the top,” said Okello. “For me, the decision became really easy, especially when I knew a coach like Pa was going there and obviously his success that he had coaching players made me really comfortable going to a team like Phoenix.”

Noble Okello: By the Numbers

• 23 appearances with Toronto FC.
• 3 goals and 2 assists in 2024 season with Atlanta United 2
• 2 international caps for Canada’s senior national team
• Six feet five inches tall – commanding presence in midfield

Transaction: Phoenix Rising FC Signs Noble Okello
Name: Noble Okello
Position: Defensive Midfield
DOB: July 20, 2000 (24)
Born: Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Former Club: Atlanta United 2
Height: 6-5
Weight: 192

Smith joins Phoenix Rising after time spent with MLS and USL Championship clubs

Phoenix Rising FC has signed 21-year-old right-back Collin Smith to a contract, pending league and federation approval.

“Collin is a player Vikram and I had the pleasure of working with in North Texas, and we’re excited to welcome him to Phoenix Rising,” said Head Coach Pa-Modou Kah. “He’s a great person and a talented young player with qualities that will energize our fans from the right-back position. My staff and I look forward to helping him develop and contribute to our championship ambitions.”

Smith, born in Jacksonville, Florida, began his youth career with Solar Chelsea SC before joining the FC Dallas Academy in 2018. Known for his exceptional 1v1 defending and crossing ability, he signed his first professional contract with North Texas SC, making his debut on July 25, 2020, in a 2–1 victory over Forward Madison.

In 2021, Smith signed a homegrown player contract with FC Dallas, where he continued to hone his skills and earn valuable experience. During the 2023 season, he was loaned to Birmingham Legion FC in the USL Championship before returning to Dallas later that year. Smith most recently played for Rhode Island FC in their debut 2024 USL Championship campaign, appearing in 18 matches and showcasing his defensive versatility.

“I’m incredibly excited to be joining Phoenix Rising, a club with a rich tradition of success and championship aspirations,” said Smith. “Having the opportunity to reunite with Coach Pa and work alongside such a professional and player-focused staff made this an easy decision. I can’t wait to bring my energy, speed, and defensive skills to the team and contribute to our collective goals.”

Collin Smith: By the Numbers

• 18 appearances for Rhode Island FC in the 2024 season.
• Debuted professionally at 17 with North Texas SC in 2020.
• 10 goals and six assists as a defender in four season since signing a pro contract.

Transaction: Phoenix Rising FC Signs Collin Smith
Name: Collin Smith
Position: Right-Back
DOB: December 4, 2003 (21)
Born: Jacksonville, Florida, United States
Former Club: Rhode Island FC
Height: 5-11
Weight: 158

Two-time USL Championship-winning goalkeeper Patrick Rakovsky returns for his third season with Phoenix Rising

Phoenix Rising FC has re-signed German goalkeeper Patrick Rakovsky, pending league and federation approval. Rakovsky, 31, will return for the 2025 season.

“Patrick is a proven winner, having demonstrated his success in this league twice, most recently with Phoenix Rising. He is more than just a soccer player for this club—he has deep roots in Arizona. His wife is from here, and he continues to fight for this club as if he were born and raised here,” said Cory Robertson, Phoenix Rising FC goalkeeper coach. “Patrick brings valuable experience as a goalkeeper on the field and seasoned leadership in the locker room, which will inspire and uplift the entire group. His work ethic is unmatched and evident every day. A relentless goalkeeper, Patrick gives everything to the team through his selflessness and compassion for others.”

Rakovsky began his professional career in Germany with 1. FC Nurnberg, making his Bundesliga debut in 2011 at just 18 years old against Borussia Dortmund. Over several seasons, Rakovsky appeared 39 times for Nurnberg’s first team and 55 times for the club’s second team.

Following his time in Germany, Rakovsky continued his career abroad, making 15 appearances for Belgian club Lierse SK before joining Finnish side FC Lahti, where he added 44 caps. He made his move to the U.S. in 2021, signing with Orange County SC in the USL Championship and playing a key role in their 2021 USL Championship title win.

Rakovsky joined Phoenix Rising in January 2023 and was an integral part of the club’s successful 2023 season. His reliability and experience between the posts provided critical depth as Rising secured its league title.

“Phoenix Rising is one of the best clubs in the USL, and Phoenix has truly become home for me and my family,” said Rakovsky. “We’re thrilled to be back. Personally, I’m focused on earning the No. 1 spot in goal, and as a team, we’re ready to fight for another championship. Winning the title and celebrating with our incredible fans downtown is a moment I’ll never forget, and I’m excited to create more memories like that together.”

Patrick Rakovsky: By the Numbers

• 39 Bundesliga appearances with 1. FC Nurnberg’s first team.
• 44 caps with Finnish side FC Lahti.
• 15 appearances in Belgium with Lierse SK.
• USL Championship winner with Orange County SC (2021) and Phoenix Rising FC (2023).
• Represented Germany’s youth national teams, including the U20 level, earning five caps.

Transaction: Phoenix Rising FC Re-Signs Patrick Rakovsky
Name: Patrick Rakovsky
Position: Goalkeeper
DOB: June 2, 1993 (31)
Born: Olpe, Germany
Height: 6-2
Weight: 187

Exciting matchups, signature theme nights, and fan-focused events highlight the 2025 season, which kicks off March 8 at Phoenix Rising Soccer Stadium

Phoenix Rising FC has officially released its 2025 schedule, featuring 34 matches and several themed nights designed to deliver unique fan experiences and strengthen the club’s community connections.

The regular season kicks off with the home opener on Saturday, March 8, at 7:00 p.m. against FC Tulsa at Phoenix Rising Soccer Stadium. The club will host a Todos Rojos night, encouraging fans to pack the stadium and wear red.

JOIN US AS WE WELCOME THE NEW PLAYERS AND COACHING STAFF, SELL OUT THE STADIUM, AND KICK OFF THE BIGGEST NIGHT OF THE YEAR! TICKETS FOR THE HOME OPENER ARE AVAILABLE NOW AT PHXRISINGFC.COM/TICKETS.

2025 THEME NIGHTS

Phoenix Rising will host eight signature theme nights throughout the season, featuring fan activations, exclusive giveaways, and community-focused initiatives:
– International Night (April 12)
– Out of School Night (May 17)
– Pride Night (June 7)
– Military Appreciation Night (July 4)
– Back to School Night (August 23)
– Hispanic Heritage Night (September 20)
– Superhero/First Responders Night (September 27)
– Breast Cancer Awareness Night (October 4)

FULL 2025 SEASON SCHEDULE

The 2025 USL Championship regular season spans 30 games, with 15 home matches and 15 away matches. In addition to the regular season matches, each team will be competing in four Jagermeister Cup matches, two home and tow away, for a total of 34 scheduled games.

The final home match of the season will take place on Saturday, October 18, when Phoenix Rising hosts San Antonio FC for Fan Appreciation Night. The regular season concludes on Saturday, October 25, with Phoenix Rising FC visiting Pittsburgh Riverhounds FC. See the full 2025 schedule below.

Match	Date	Home Team	Visitor
1	Saturday, March 8	Phoenix Rising FC	FC Tulsa
2	Saturday, March 15	El Paso Locomotive FC	Phoenix Rising FC
3	Saturday, March 22	Phoenix Rising FC	Rhode Island FC
4	Saturday, March 29	Monterey Bay FC	Phoenix Rising FC
5	Sunday, April 6	San Antonio FC	Phoenix Rising FC
6	Saturday, April 12	Phoenix Rising FC	Detroit City FC
7	Saturday, April 19	Phoenix Rising FC	Sacramento Republic FC
8	Saturday, April 26*	Phoenix Rising FC	San Antonio FC
9	Saturday, May 3	Colorado Springs Switchbacks	Phoenix Rising FC
10	Saturday, May 10	New Mexico United	Phoenix Rising FC
11	Saturday, May 17	Phoenix Rising FC	Monterey Bay FC
12	Wednesday, May 28	Las Vegas Lights FC	Phoenix Rising FC
13	Saturday, May 31*	Phoenix Rising FC	New Mexico United
14	Saturday, June 7	Phoenix Rising FC	Orange County SC
15	Saturday, June 14	FC Tulsa	Phoenix Rising FC
16	Saturday, June 21	Charleston Battery	Phoenix Rising FC
17	Saturday, June 28*	Texoma FC	Phoenix Rising FC
18	Friday, July 4	Phoenix Rising FC	Lexington SC
19	Saturday, July 12	Oakland Roots SC	Phoenix Rising FC
20	Saturday, July 19*	El Paso Locomotive FC	Phoenix Rising FC
21	Wednesday, July 30	Orange County SC	Phoenix Rising FC
22	Saturday, August 2	Phoenix Rising FC	Birmingham Legion FC
23	Saturday, August 9	Lexington SC	Phoenix Rising FC
24	Saturday, August 16	Tampa Bay Rowdies	Phoenix Rising FC
25	Saturday, August 23	Phoenix Rising FC	Colorado Springs Switchbacks
26	Saturday, August 30	Phoenix Rising FC	El Paso Locomotive FC
27	Friday, September 5	Phoenix Rising FC	Las Vegas Lights FC
28	Saturday, September 13	Sacramento Republic FC	Phoenix Rising FC
29	Saturday, September 20	Phoenix Rising FC	Loudoun United FC
30	Saturday, September 27	Phoenix Rising FC	Oakland Roots SC
31	Saturday, October 4	Phoenix Rising FC	New Mexico United
32	Friday, October 10	North Carolina FC	Phoenix Rising FC
33	Saturday, October 18	Phoenix Rising FC	San Antonio FC
34	Saturday, October 25	Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC	Phoenix Rising FC

JAGERMEISTER CUP

For the first time, Phoenix Rising will compete in the Jagermeister Cup, featuring matches against USL Championship rivals San Antonio FC, New Mexico United, El Paso Locomotive FC, and USL League 1’s Texoma FC. Playoffs for the Cup will take place in the fall.

TICKETS AND MORE INFORMATION

Season ticket memberships are available now at phxrisingfc.com/tickets. Single-match tickets for the home opener are also on sale, with all remaining matches available in mid-January. Secure your seat early and be part of the 2025 season! Visit phxrisingfc.com/tickets for more details.