VILLANOVA, Pa. - Villanova today announced its latest addition to the 2022 fall roster, goalkeeper Rafael Ponce De Leon. 

Head Coach Tom Carlin:
"Rafa has been one of the most decorated goalkeepers in the country throughout his club and high school soccer career. He is a very good shot stopper and will help us play out of pressure with composure. Rafa is a GK that likes to build out of the back as well as showcase his long-range precision passing ability. Rafa has an infectious personality and leadership qualities that will uplift players around him. His values and morals align perfectly with what it takes to be a Villanova Men's Soccer Player."

Rafael Ponce De Leon

Goalkeeper

The Pennington School

Club: PDA

Villanova

An elite goalkeeper prospect who joins holdover Kent Dickey as the Wildcats look to replace longtime starter Carson Williams in net.

Pennington School/PDA Academy

A four-year starter at The Pennington School who also served as a team captain … A two-time all-state Honorable Mention … Named a Times All- Area First Team Starting XI 2021-2022 … Recorded clean sheets in 19 games, allowing only eight goals against 2021-2022 … Tabbed 2021-22 N.J.S.I.A.A "A" Division All Prep Boys First Team, and The Trenton Times Area and Prep Player of the Year and the Trentonian's Prep Player of the Year … Posted a four-year record at Pennington of 44-12-2, including 30 clean sheets in 58 matches (51 percent clean sheet per game ratio) … Named All American Best XI 2021-2022

Also served as a captain with PDA … Delivered six shutouts in 10 games 2020-2021 … Played in MLS Next U17 final 2020-2021 … Named MLS Next Best Goalkeeper 2020-2021 and MLS Next All Star Representing East Boys 2021-2022.

Why Villanova?

"I chose Villanova because it is exactly what I want to represent and what I want to take part of. The school, the culture, the unmatched school spirit and the community took my heart. I was prioritized in my class, and I loved the coaching staff and how easy it is to talk to them and have more than just a coach and player relationship. So proud to be here."