Leesburg, VA (April 14, 2026) — Loudoun United FC has signed forward Osi Onwudiwe and defender Justin Melly to its USL Two team for the 2026 season, pending league and federation approval.
Onwudiwe joins Loudoun United FC 2 after an outstanding run at Episcopal High School and with the Alexandria Reds, establishing himself as one of the top young players in the region. The Virginia Tech signee was named the 2024–25 Gatorade Virginia Boys Soccer Player of the Year, capping off a senior season in which he led Episcopal to a VISAA Division I state championship. He finished the year with 20 goals and seven assists, including the game-winning goal in the final. His list of honors reflects the impact he made throughout the season, earning VISAA Division I Player of the Year, Washington Post First Team All-Met, and United Soccer Coaches All-American recognition. Onwudiwe also gained valuable experience at the senior level with the Alexandria Reds, scoring six goals in eight matches and earning TopDrawerSoccer’s 2025 NPSL Young Player of the Season award.
“We are delighted to welcome Osi to the environment this summer,” said Loudoun United USL 2 Head Coach, Matthew Mountford. “Having spoken to him, I know he is eager to build on a really promising start to his collegiate career at Virginia Tech. Osi is a winger who brings unpredictability to his opponents with his ability to go down the line or cut in. He is a player I am sure fans will really enjoy watching and we’re looking forward to seeing the impact he has this season.”
Player: Osi Onwudiwe
Position: Forward
Birthdate: 12/14/2007
Age: 18
Birthplace: Woodbridge, VA
Height: 6’1’’
Status: Domestic
Melly joins the club following a strong freshman season at Cornell University, where he quickly became a consistent presence in the midfield. He started 18 matches for the Big Red and logged 1,678 minutes, finishing among the team leaders in playing time. His ability to stay composed on the ball and handle a heavy workload made him a reliable option throughout the season. Before Cornell, Melly developed in the D.C. United Academy and gained early exposure to the professional level, making appearances for Loudoun United FC in the USL Championship during the 2024 season. That experience, combined with his collegiate minutes, gives him a solid foundation heading into the summer.
“Justin brings tremendous experience and is already familiar with the first team players and environment here, giving him a real opportunity to be a key member in the locker room,” said Loudoun United USL 2 Head Coach, Matthew Mountford. “Coming off a fantastic season with Cornell, he brings versatility to the group as he can play multiple positions seamlessly. We are all looking forward to seeing his energy, work ethic and enthusiasm around the place this summer, and this is a good environment for him to showcase his abilities on and off the pitch.”
Player: Justin Melly
Position: Defender
Birthdate: 07/27/2006
Age: 19
Birthplace: Arlington, VA
Height: 5’9’’
Status: Domestic
Fans can secure their seats for Loudoun United FC’s next home match as they host Charleston Battery at Segra Field for a 6:00 PM kickoff on April 25. Come out and watch as Loudoun take the pitch and be part of the matchday energy in Leesburg. Tickets start at just $10 and can be purchased now at https://www.loudoununitedfc.com/tickets/ets/.
About Loudoun United FC
Loudoun United FC is the highest-level professional soccer club in Virginia, competing in the USL Championship. The club is committed to advancing the game, developing top talent, and providing a high-quality experience for players, supporters, and the local community. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.loudoununitedfc.com.
