Former UPSL Top Prospect Santi Castaneda (Florida Premier) Shining in Bundesliga 2
Santiago Castañeda’s remarkable rise from local soccer talent to top professional player continues to inspire. After showcasing his skills in the UPSL in 2022 with Florida Premier FC in the Florida West Premier Division Conference, the Tampa-born midfielder quickly earned recognition as one of the top young prospects in the state. His dynamic performances in central midfield attracted the attention of the Tampa Bay Rowdies, who offered him an Academy contract, setting the stage for his rapid ascent and journey to Europe.
Soon after, in 2023, Castañeda signed his first professional contract with German 3rd division side MSV Duisburg. He became a key figure for the team throughout the 2023-2024 campaign, finishing the season with an impressive 31 appearances and 2 goals. “The love for the game has always been inside me,” said Castañeda. “I was not expecting to become a starter so quickly. I learned a lot and just continued to improve. I always try to work hard for the team.” His consistency and rapid development caught the attention of clubs in the second division, and it wasn’t long before Bundesliga 2 team SC Paderborn 1907 reached out.
Ahead of this season, Castañeda officially signed with SC Paderborn 1907, earning the coveted number 5 jersey — an indication of the club’s faith and their plans to integrate him into a crucial midfield role. “My parents always said that everyone in life will get an opportunity. And whenever it comes, you’ve got to be ready,” Currently, Paderborn sit in fifth place, one point outside promotion to the first division. With the end of the season looming, the players prepare for one final push. Castañeda and Paderborn now have the opportunity to show the rest of the league they are ready for promotion to the next division.
Born and raised in Tampa, Florida, Castañeda proudly holds dual citizenship with the United States and Colombia. As he continues to climb Germany’s competitive soccer ladder, his international options remain open. Paderborn’s directors have already voiced their enthusiasm about the 20-year-old’s potential. “Santiago is a great talent who brings numerous advantages to Paderborn. He continues to impress us with his running ability and his willingness to engage in every duel with full commitment. We are delighted that he has chosen Paderborn,” said Paderborn Sporting Director Benjamin Weber.
To stay up to date on Castañeda’s former team Florida Premier and other top UPSL Premier Division teams, visit www.premier.staging.upsl.com. For more information on how to join the UPSL, please visit www.upslregistration.com/application/team.
About United Premier Soccer League
The UPSL was formed in 2011 and occupies the unofficial fourth tier of US Soccer. Across its Premier, Division 1, Women and Academy divisions there are more than 600 teams competing nationwide. The UPSL is the largest Pro Development League in North America and is a National Affiliate member of the U.S. Soccer Federation (USSF). Each UPSL team is individually owned and operated. UPSL teams are eligible to participate in the U.S. Open Cup Qualifying Rounds through the league’s affiliation with USSF. More information about UPSL can be found at www.staging.upsl.com or by following the league on Facebook (facebook.com/upslsoccer), Instagram (@upslsoccer) and Twitter (@upslsoccer). Contact UPSL: info@upslsoccer.com / Media: chris.korte@staging.upsl.com.