The U.S. Under-20 international has impressed at center back after unexpectedly winning the starting job for Orlando out of preseason.
Tommy Redding needed a moment to himself. So he took a seat, contemplated the news and let the emotions wash over him — nerves, excitement and everything in between.
Barely a month after his 19th birthday, Redding discovered at the close of preseason that he had earned a starting assignment for Orlando City's MLS opener against Real Salt Lake on March 6. After making just two appearances during his debut MLS campaign in 2015, the Oviedo, Florida, native had relegated three-time All-Star Aurelien Collin to the bench.