Sarasota Paradise announced today the transfer of defender Callum Stretch to USL Championship side Las Vegas Lights FC for an undisclosed fee, marking the first transfer in club history.
Stretch’s move to Las Vegas represents a significant milestone for Sarasota Paradise and its commitment to providing players with a platform to compete, develop and advance their careers. The transfer also marks Stretch’s move to a higher division within the U.S. Soccer pyramid.
Stretch joined Sarasota Paradise in December ahead of the club’s inaugural professional season and quickly became an important part of the Paradise back line. His versatility and athleticism helped anchor the club’s defense throughout the first season.
During his time in Sarasota, Stretch also earned a return to the international stage with the Puerto Rico Senior National Team, receiving a call-up and playing the full 90 minutes in two FIFA Series games, against Guam and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
“I am very happy for Callum for this opportunity,” said Sarasota Paradise Head Coach Mika Elovaara. “When we signed him, we expected to be bringing in a tactically intelligent, versatile and athletic defender, and his tenure with us proved that to be very true. Callum played an important part in building our foundation both on and off the field, and we will miss his genuine presence in the locker room and throughout the organization. We wish him nothing but the best in Las Vegas, and I have no doubt that he will quickly become an important part of his new club.”
Player development has been one of the core principles of Sarasota Paradise since the club’s inception. The organization’s mission is not only to compete and build a winning culture, but also to identify talented players, provide them with meaningful opportunities at the professional level and help them take the next step in their careers.
Stretch’s transfer is a direct reflection of that philosophy. After joining Paradise, he took advantage of his opportunities, established himself as a key contributor during the club’s inaugural season, returned to the Puerto Rico Senior National Team and ultimately earned a move to the USL Championship.
“In the bigger picture, in a season of firsts, our first-ever player transfer to a higher league is one of the most important moments in club history because it connects directly with the core values and purpose of our club,” said Elovaara. “Helping players grow and develop and investing in their career progress is at the heart of what we do. I am glad we were able to help Callum get back into the Puerto Rico Senior National Team as well as earn this move to the USL Championship.”
“As we grow more deeply into our community and continue our quest for consistent winning as a team, it is important that we recognize these key individual moments as wins as well.” – Head Coach Mika Elovaara
Stretch leaves Sarasota having played an important role in establishing the identity of Paradise during its inaugural professional season. From helping build the club’s foundation on the field to contributing to the culture of the organization off it, his impact will remain part of the club’s history.
“I want to thank the coaches and staff at Sarasota Paradise for giving me the opportunity and platform to showcase myself as a player,” said Stretch. “I’m incredibly grateful for everything I’ve learned this year and proud to have played a small part in making history with an expansion club and helping build something special from the ground up.”- Callum Stretch
As the first player in club history to earn a transfer to a higher division, Stretch’s move represents more than an individual achievement. It is a landmark moment for Sarasota Paradise and a tangible example of the pathway the club aims to create for players looking to reach the next level.
Sarasota Paradise thanks Callum Stretch for his contributions, professionalism and commitment to building the club from the ground up. The club wishes him the very best with Las Vegas Lights FC and throughout the next chapter of his career.
Thank you, Callum.