Morris Elite’s Tino Puentes Signs First Professional Contract With the New York Cosmos

Morris Elite’s Tino Puentes Signs First Professional Contract With the New York Cosmos

Historic moment as club celebrates its first ever player to turn professional through the Morris Elite Pathway

Madison, NJ — December 2025 — Morris Elite Soccer Club is proud to announce that Tino Puentes has officially signed his first professional contract with the New York Cosmos, becoming the first player in Morris Elite history to rise through the club’s full development pathway and reach the professional level.

Puentes, 23, spent the last two years competing within Morris Elite’s USL Academy and USL League Two programs. His relentless work ethic, maturity, and standout performances made him one of the club’s top prospects and ultimately earned him a professional opportunity with the Cosmos, marking a milestone achievement for both Puentes and Morris Elite.

As part of the club’s historic affiliation with the New York Cosmos, Puentes’ signing showcases the strength and legitimacy of the Path to Pro model developed by Morris Elite, designed to create a true progression from youth soccer to professional ranks.

Quote from Tino Puentes

“Morris Elite gave me the platform and opportunity to showcase myself at the semi-professional level. Each year was another step forward in my success. If it wasn’t for their coaching staff taking a chance and believing in me, I wouldn’t be where I am today. Thank you to my Morris Elite family!”

Quote from Vincenzo Bernardo, Founder & President of Morris Elite SC

“We are incredibly proud of Tino and all the work he put in to reach this moment. He is a perfect example of what our Path to Pro model is built for. Tino believed in the process, committed to the grind, and earned every bit of this opportunity. Being our first ever player to sign a professional contract is a historic milestone for Morris Elite, and we know his journey will inspire the next wave of players to chase the same dream.”

This landmark signing reinforces Morris Elite’s mission to provide a clear and impactful pathway from grassroots development to the professional game, now fully realized with the club’s first homegrown professional athlete.

About Morris Elite Soccer Club

Morris Elite SC is a forward-thinking club dedicated to player development, competitive excellence, and creating opportunities at every level from grassroots to USL Academy and USL League Two, and now into the professional ranks. Through a direct affiliation with the New York Cosmos, Morris Elite continues to expand its reach and impact within the American soccer landscape.