USL League One record holder for saves stays in Charlotte
CHARLOTTE, N.C. (January 9, 2024) – The Charlotte Independence announced today that goalkeeper Austin Pack is returning to the squad in 2024. Pack had a season to remember in 2023 for the USL League One Finalists.
“Austin was a huge part of our success last year,” Head Coach Mike Jeffries said. “His play was not only deserving of the accolades he received but was vital in our earning points throughout the season. Being able to keep Austin in Charlotte is a huge coup for us, and I look forward to working with him this season and watching him push the goalkeeping envelope a little further.”
With 129 saves, Pack set a new USL League One record for saves in a single season, surpassing the previous record of 105. Pack also tied the record for most saves in a single playoff game with seven in the semifinal against Union Omaha.
Anchoring the defense, Pack earned 10 clean sheets in 2023. He logged a save percentage of 74% and was named USL League One Goalkeeper of the Year by the league’s coaches. Additionally, Pack was named to the 2023 USL League One All-League First Team.
2024 marks Pack’s fifth season with the Jacks after first joining the club in 2020. He was a key player during the 2021 season, helping the Independence earn the first playoff win in club history.
After a brief stint with Hartford Athletic in 2022, Pack returned home to Charlotte for the Jacks and stepped into the starting role in 2023. He played in every single match of the 2023 season for the Independence.
“I’m grateful to be returning to the Independence,” Pack shared. “We have a strong core of players returning, and I’m excited to get started.”
Pack joins fellow goalkeeper Matt Levy between the sticks as the top two goalkeepers for Charlotte in 2023 are both returning.
The 2024 season begins on Saturday, March 16 as the Charlotte Independence face One Knoxville SC in the home opener. Season tickets for the Charlotte Independence 10th Anniversary season are on sale now with packages as low as $5 per game. To see all exclusive Season Ticket Member benefits and purchase your tickets today, visit charlotteindependence.com/seasontickets.
ABOUT CHARLOTTE INDEPENDENCE:
The Charlotte Independence is a Division III professional men’s soccer team based in Charlotte, North Carolina. The club, founded in 2014, currently competes in USL League One and plays all home games at the newly renovated American Legion Memorial Stadium. As part of the Queen City Soccer Club, our mission is to make Charlotte a better place to live through sports. For information on club news, season tickets and more, visit charlotteindependence.com.