CHATTANOOGA, Tn. (Jan. 29, 2021) – This Friday afternoon, the Red Wolves announced Rafa Mentzingen as their 16th addition to the 2021 squad pending league and federation approval. The dynamic forward brings a new level of pace and finishing to USL League One.
Born in Rio De Janeiro, Rafa spent his youth career in Brazil before moving to America after being recruited for collegiate soccer. The 24 year old Brazilian began his collegiate soccer career at Bryan College in Dayton Tennessee where he played alongside current Red Wolves defender Jonathan Ricketts, making him a familiar face to many Chattanoogans. Mentzingen completed his collegiate career with NCAA Division 1 program Valparaiso University. Upon graduation, Rafa entered the 2019 MLS Superdraft where he was selected in the 4th round by Columbus Crew.
Rafa then began his professional career in USL League One during its inaugural season, putting away 6 goals and notching 7 assists. After a successful rookie season, Mentzingen went on trial with the Columbus Crew before signing with Memphis 901 FC where he played alongside former United States Men’s National Team Goalkeeper Tim Howard. During the shortened 2020 season, Rafa put in three goals and notched one assist.
Head Coach Jimmy Obleda is eager to see the pacey, dynamic Brazilian implemented into USL League One’s most high powered offense. “Rafa is a player of the highest quality,” says Obleda. “He checks all the boxes of what we are looking for in our attacking players, he has it all and does it all very well. Rafa will be someone that the team will be looking to take the game by the scruff of the neck when needed.”
GM & President Sean McDaniel sees Mentzingen as a key addition to the 2021 roster. “While most clubs would be satisfied to have our goal production from last year, it really didn’t meet our expectations considering our style of play,” says McDaniel. “We felt it was critical to bolster our attack and find players that can create quality chances for us in front of the net. I’ve watched Rafa’s career for several years and he’s exactly what we have been missing.”
For Rafa, coming back to Chattanooga is something he’s looked forward to for a long time. “I feel like Chattanooga is home,” says Mentzingen. “I already have a strong community of friends in the city and love the beautiful hiking spots Chattanooga has to offer. It’s such a passionate city for sports, I’m very excited to begin the next chapter of my career back in Chattanooga. To the fans, we are going to give our 110% to bring this trophy to the city. I would like to ask for your full support, cheering and singing throughout our matches.”
Mentzingen is the 16th addition to the Red Wolves 2021 Roster and 4th forward. Rafa joins newcomers Josue Espana, Jose Carrera Garcia, Jimmie Villalobos, Jackson Dieterich, Jonathan Esparza, Jorge Luna, Daniel Navarro, Sebastian Mora-Mora and returners Ualefi Dos Reis, Ami Pineda, Ronaldo Pineda, Marky Hernandez, Ricky Ruiz, Jonathan Ricketts, Jason Ramos and Tim Trilk. More player announcements are expected in the coming weeks.
