El Paso native Kenneth Hoban, a rising defender for Locomotive FC, received the call to represent the United States at the Under‑18 Men’s National Team level. The 17‑year‑old was announced on Monday as one of 20 players selected for the training roster that will travel to an international camp in Santarém, Portugal, from Nov. 9‑18.
Local talent on the national stage
Hoban’s journey began when he signed with Locomotive FC in 2024 at just 15 years old. He made his professional debut a year later, appearing for the Locos against the Las Vegas Lights FC in 2025. His rapid development earned him recognition from U.S. Soccer officials, who are assembling a diverse group of young players to compete against top European and South American academies.
Camp details and roster composition
The upcoming training camp will feature athletes from 17 clubs across the country, including 12 players representing ten MLS clubs. Four additional players will join from European clubs, and one will come from Brazil. Hoban is one of only two players on the roster who are currently attached to a USL club, highlighting the growing reputation of the United Soccer League as a pipeline for national‑team talent.
What the call means for Hoban and Locomotive FC
For Hobon and his family, the selection is a testament to the quality of coaching and development opportunities available in El Paso. “We are incredibly proud of Kenneth,” said Locomotive FC head coach Marco Alvarez. “His work ethic and commitment on and off the field embody the values we strive to instill in all our players. This call‑up reflects not only his talent but also the strength of our program and the support of the El Paso community.”
The club plans to celebrate Hoban’s achievement with a fan‑focused event at the home stadium before his departure for Portugal. Supporters are encouraged to attend and show their backing for the young defender as he prepares to compete on the international stage.
Looking ahead
U.S. Soccer officials view the Under‑18 camp as a critical step in building a competitive senior national team for future World Cups. Players who excel in Portugal will be considered for upcoming youth tournaments and may earn spots on the Under‑20 and Under‑23 squads.
Hoban’s participation also serves as an inspiration for other local athletes who aspire to reach the highest levels of the sport. “Seeing a kid from El Paso wearing the national jersey shows that hard work and faith can open doors,” said youth soccer director Lisa Martinez. “We hope his story motivates the next generation of players in our community.”
Locomotive FC will continue its season schedule while Hoban is abroad, relying on its depth at the back to maintain competitive performance in the USL Championship. The club remains committed to developing home‑grown talent and providing pathways to professional and international opportunities.
National team schedule
During the November camp, the U.S. Under‑18 Men’s National Team will face youth sides from Portugal, Spain, and the Netherlands. The squad will also participate in a series of friendly matches designed to evaluate individual and collective progress. Final selections for upcoming international tournaments will be announced after the camp concludes.
Fans can follow Hoban’s journey and the U.S. Under‑18 Men’s National Team’s results through U.S. Soccer’s official website and social media channels.
Original reporting: El Paso News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
