COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (Nov. 29, 2022) – The Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC announced that they had signed defender Koa Santos, previously from Loudoun United FC. The transaction is pending league and federation approval.
“Incredibly excited for this new chapter in Colorado. The combination of the successful track record, as well as Coach Hogan’s ambitious plans for the club made this an easy decision for me,” said Santos. “Looking forward to building something special and playing in front of the best fans in the league. See you at Weidner in 2024.”
Santos, 24, joined Loudoun United FC in 2023 and throughout the season, he earned two assists, 30 key passes, 31 clearances, 37 tackles, and 27 interceptions.
The Hawaii native played for San Diego State University, where he netted two goals and had three assists in his 58 appearances. Santos made history by being the first men’s soccer player from Hawaii to play in the PAC-12.
This defender made his professional debut playing for the MLS team, Charlotte FC, on June 25th, 2022 against Club de Foot Montreal. A notable moment in Santos’s MLS career was when he recorded an assist in the Open Cup Match against the Richmond Kickers.
Santos was then sent on a loan to USL League One with Charlotte Independence where he made 19 appearances, scored one goal, had two assists, 23 interceptions, and 24 clearances.
“We are very happy to secure Koa for the 2024 season,” said Technical Director & Assistant Coach, James Chambers. “He has very good instincts going forward and can affect the game well in the final third. He’ll be a real asset to the club as a person and a player.”
Name: Laukoa ‘Koa’ Santos
Position: Defender
Height: 5′ 10″
Date of Birth: 9/21/1999
Age: 24
Hometown: Waikoloa, Hawaii
For a full 2024 roster update, click HERE!
