“Josh is a perfect example of what we hope to bring to the youth soccer community in Peterborough,” said Rob Jenkins, ECFC president. “At a young age, he had to leave Peterborough to compete at a higher level and develop his skills to try to reach the next level. Our hope is that by bringing these opportunities to Peterborough we are going to see more players like Josh able to reach the next level right here in their hometown.”
The Peterborough native spent some time playing in the Toronto FC Academy system and came back to Peterborough with Cavan FC. During his time there, Penello led his team in winning the Ontario Soccer league’s Provincial East title in 2019, to gain promotion to the OSL Elite league.
“Growing up in the Peterborough area and wanting higher competition in soccer meant you had to travel to find it,” said Panello. “Having ECFC being developed in my hometown made me want to be a part of this franchise and see where it can take me and this city.”