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TAMPA, Fla. – The 2019 USL Championship season will open with a landmark opening day on Saturday, March 9 thanks to a 17-game slate of action – the most on a single day in the league’s history – that kicks off the regular season.

The Championship’s home openers were revealed in full on Friday as fans of the league’s 36 clubs got their first glimpse of the 2019 campaign, with an opening day of games that includes inaugural home matches for four expansion franchises across the country.

TAMPA, Fla. – The 2019 USL Championship season will open with a landmark opening day on Saturday, March 9 thanks to a 17-game slate of action – the most on a single day in the league’s history – that kicks off the regular season.

The Championship’s home openers were revealed in full on Friday as fans of the league’s 36 clubs got their first glimpse of the 2019 campaign, with an opening day of games that includes inaugural home matches for four expansion franchises across the country.

get 2019 Charlotte Independence schedule alerts

2019 USL Championship Home Openers

get 2019 Charlotte Independence schedule alerts

2019 USL Championship Home Openers

TAMPA, Fla. – The USL Championship today announced its conference alignment for the league’s 2019 regular season. The league will feature 36 teams across two conferences in the upcoming season, with the clubs set to embark on a 34-game regular-season schedule that will be conducted over 33 weeks and open on the weekend of March 8-10, 2019.

Four of the league’s expansion arrivals will join the Eastern Conference, with Birmingham Legion FC, Hartford Athletic, Loudoun United FC and Memphis 901 FC joining the conference led by defending USL Cup champion Louisville City FC. 

The Eastern Conference also features two new arrivals in Saint Louis FC and the Swope Park Rangers, who make the move after both reaching the USL Cup Playoffs in the Western Conference a season ago. 

The remaining three expansion clubs – Austin Bold FC, El Paso Locomotive FC and New Mexico United – join the Western Conference for their inaugural seasons. The addition of Austin and El Paso to the conference gives the USL Championship four clubs in Texas for the first time, while New Mexico and El Paso are set to engage in a strong regional rivalry with the clubs separated by just over 250 miles.

2019 USL Championship Conference Alignment
Eastern Conference Western Conference

Home openers for the 2019 USL Championship season and the full 2019 regular season schedule will be announced at a future date.

TAMPA, Fla. – The USL Championship today announced its conference alignment for the league’s 2019 regular season. The league will feature 36 teams across two conferences in the upcoming season, with the clubs set to embark on a 34-game regular-season schedule that will be conducted over 33 weeks and open on the weekend of March 8-10, 2019.

Four of the league’s expansion arrivals will join the Eastern Conference, with Birmingham Legion FC, Hartford Athletic, Loudoun United FC and Memphis 901 FC joining the conference led by defending USL Cup champion Louisville City FC. 

The Eastern Conference also features two new arrivals in Saint Louis FC and the Swope Park Rangers, who make the move after both reaching the USL Cup Playoffs in the Western Conference a season ago. 

The remaining three expansion clubs – Austin Bold FC, El Paso Locomotive FC and New Mexico United – join the Western Conference for their inaugural seasons. The addition of Austin and El Paso to the conference gives the USL Championship four clubs in Texas for the first time, while New Mexico and El Paso are set to engage in a strong regional rivalry with the clubs separated by just over 250 miles.

2019 USL Championship Conference Alignment
Eastern Conference Western Conference

Home openers for the 2019 USL Championship season and the full 2019 regular season schedule will be announced at a future date.

Charlotte (NC) — On Thursday, the Charlotte Independence professional soccer team announced five players will return for the upcoming season; midfielder Alex Martinez, defender Joel Johnson, midfielder Kevan George, goalkeeper Brandon Miller and midfielder Jake Areman. The club is currently in negotiations with forward Jorge Herrera. Also, newly announced Independence Head Coach Jim McGuinness made his first addition to the technical staff with Assistant Coach Dave Dixon. The club is proud to announce former Independence defender Donnie Smith has joined the front office, upon his retirement as a player. Smith will assist the Marketing and Sales teams as he pursues further education at UNC-Charlotte.

“This group is made of seasoned campaigners who have a high work-ethic and skill level,” said McGuinness. “That's important. They know their way around the pitch and they know their way around the league. They have the football club in their veins and that's really important.

RECENT NEWS: INDEPENDENCE NAME JIM MCGUINNESS HEAD COACH

"The most important thing now is to keep bringing people into the club that have the core values that are going be our leaders out on the pitch,” said McGuinness. “These guys are going to be able to deliver energy and work-rate for us, so it's really exciting to re-sign this group."  

Alex Martinez, 27, returns for his fifth season with the Independence. The fiery midfielder was a pillar of the starting lineup last year with 29 selections, tying Joel Johnson for the most on the squad. Martinez’s two-way, work rate paced the team with 77 tackles and 1,403 passes. A proud resident of Rock Hill, South Carolina, Martinez spends his spare time as a coach for Discoveries Soccer Club.  

Joel Johnson, 26, returns for his fourth season with the Independence. As a mainstay on the backline, Johnson led the entire squad with 2,586 minutes played for the 2018 season. He contributed heavily to the attack with two assists and 111 crosses. As a Liberia National Team player, Johnson has helped position the Lone Stars to the cusp of the team’s first Africa Cup of Nations Qualification since 2002.

Kevan George, 28, returns for his second season with the Independence. Catering to the Independence's possession-oriented attack, George ballasted the team with 1,396 passes and an 84.7% pass-accuracy rate. He netted two goals including the game-winner versus Nashville SC and anchored the Independence defense, leading the club with 57 intercepted passes. A veteran for the Trinidad and Tobago National Team, George is sure to factor for the Soca Warriors in the 2019 Gold Cup.

Brandon Miller, 28, returns for his second season with the Independence. During the 2018 pre-season, Miller was set-back by a broken wrist, but came on strong during the regular season making 12 starts with two clean sheets. During the 2015 season with the Rochester Rhinos, Miller was named USL Goalkeeper of the Year en route to an USL Cup Championship. An alumni of UNC-Wilmington, Charlotte Country Day High School and Charlotte Soccer Academy, Miller has strong local ties and is a figure in the Charlotte community.

Jake Areman, 22, returns for his second season with the Independence. During his rookie campaign in 2018, Areman rapidly grew into a substantial role, eventually earning 10 starts and 23 games played. Notably, Areman notched two goals including the game-winner against the Richmond Kickers in a critical, late-season game. The Monmouth University product was a standout at the 2017 Independence Player Invitational Combine.  

As a substantial figure in Charlotte coaching landscape, Assistant Coach Dave Dixon becomes a natural fit for McGuinness’ staff. Dixon served as Head Coach for USL League Two side Charlotte Eagles from 2014-17. The 2015 PDL Coach of the Year won back-to-back South Atlantic Championships in his first two seasons at the helm. On the back of the Eagle’s 2017 PDL Championship, Dixon joined Head Coach Martin Rennie’s staff as an assistant coach for Indy Eleven. Dixon has previously worked with Independence General Manager Mike Jeffries and has served as the Director of Coaching for Charlotte Soccer Academy Matthews.

“I'm really excited about the opportunity,” said Dixon. “The new direction and excitement is something I'm looking forward to. The Independence plays a really important role in building the game in Charlotte and I'm looking forward to being a part of that.”

“I'm really looking forward to Dave coming in and working with him,” said McGuinness. “Dave has a wealth of knowledge and knows his way around the league. It's important when you're coming from outside, like myself, you have someone who understands the dynamic of the league. That was a simple decision.”

The following players from the 2018 roster have become free agents; Conor O’Brien, Bilal Duckett, Greg Jordan, Henry Kalungi, James Kiffe, Je-Vaughn Watson, Kay Voser, Mutaya Mwape, Cordell Cato and Donnie Smith (retirement). Former Independence midfielder Yann Ekra has signed with the Tampa Bay Rowdies and former Independence forward Eamon Zayed has signed with Chattanooga Red Wolves SC. The Independence wishes the best of luck to each player and thanks them for their contributions in advancing the club.

The Independence will return to USL Championship action next spring at the Sportsplex at Matthews. For more information on 2019 Season Memberships, please visit https://www.charlotteindependence.com or call the Independence front office at 704-206-1515.

Charlotte (NC) — On Thursday, the Charlotte Independence professional soccer team announced five players will return for the upcoming season; midfielder Alex Martinez, defender Joel Johnson, midfielder Kevan George, goalkeeper Brandon Miller and midfielder Jake Areman. The club is currently in negotiations with forward Jorge Herrera. Also, newly announced Independence Head Coach Jim McGuinness made his first addition to the technical staff with Assistant Coach Dave Dixon. The club is proud to announce former Independence defender Donnie Smith has joined the front office, upon his retirement as a player. Smith will assist the Marketing and Sales teams as he pursues further education at UNC-Charlotte.

“This group is made of seasoned campaigners who have a high work-ethic and skill level,” said McGuinness. “That’s important. They know their way around the pitch and they know their way around the league. They have the football club in their veins and that’s really important.

RECENT NEWS: INDEPENDENCE NAME JIM MCGUINNESS HEAD COACH

“The most important thing now is to keep bringing people into the club that have the core values that are going be our leaders out on the pitch,” said McGuinness. “These guys are going to be able to deliver energy and work-rate for us, so it’s really exciting to re-sign this group.”  

Alex Martinez, 27, returns for his fifth season with the Independence. The fiery midfielder was a pillar of the starting lineup last year with 29 selections, tying Joel Johnson for the most on the squad. Martinez’s two-way, work rate paced the team with 77 tackles and 1,403 passes. A proud resident of Rock Hill, South Carolina, Martinez spends his spare time as a coach for Discoveries Soccer Club.  

Joel Johnson, 26, returns for his fourth season with the Independence. As a mainstay on the backline, Johnson led the entire squad with 2,586 minutes played for the 2018 season. He contributed heavily to the attack with two assists and 111 crosses. As a Liberia National Team player, Johnson has helped position the Lone Stars to the cusp of the team’s first Africa Cup of Nations Qualification since 2002.

Kevan George, 28, returns for his second season with the Independence. Catering to the Independence’s possession-oriented attack, George ballasted the team with 1,396 passes and an 84.7% pass-accuracy rate. He netted two goals including the game-winner versus Nashville SC and anchored the Independence defense, leading the club with 57 intercepted passes. A veteran for the Trinidad and Tobago National Team, George is sure to factor for the Soca Warriors in the 2019 Gold Cup.

Brandon Miller, 28, returns for his second season with the Independence. During the 2018 pre-season, Miller was set-back by a broken wrist, but came on strong during the regular season making 12 starts with two clean sheets. During the 2015 season with the Rochester Rhinos, Miller was named USL Goalkeeper of the Year en route to an USL Cup Championship. An alumni of UNC-Wilmington, Charlotte Country Day High School and Charlotte Soccer Academy, Miller has strong local ties and is a figure in the Charlotte community.

Jake Areman, 22, returns for his second season with the Independence. During his rookie campaign in 2018, Areman rapidly grew into a substantial role, eventually earning 10 starts and 23 games played. Notably, Areman notched two goals including the game-winner against the Richmond Kickers in a critical, late-season game. The Monmouth University product was a standout at the 2017 Independence Player Invitational Combine.  

As a substantial figure in Charlotte coaching landscape, Assistant Coach Dave Dixon becomes a natural fit for McGuinness’ staff. Dixon served as Head Coach for USL League Two side Charlotte Eagles from 2014-17. The 2015 PDL Coach of the Year won back-to-back South Atlantic Championships in his first two seasons at the helm. On the back of the Eagle’s 2017 PDL Championship, Dixon joined Head Coach Martin Rennie’s staff as an assistant coach for Indy Eleven. Dixon has previously worked with Independence General Manager Mike Jeffries and has served as the Director of Coaching for Charlotte Soccer Academy Matthews.

“I’m really excited about the opportunity,” said Dixon. “The new direction and excitement is something I’m looking forward to. The Independence plays a really important role in building the game in Charlotte and I’m looking forward to being a part of that.”

“I’m really looking forward to Dave coming in and working with him,” said McGuinness. “Dave has a wealth of knowledge and knows his way around the league. It’s important when you’re coming from outside, like myself, you have someone who understands the dynamic of the league. That was a simple decision.”

The following players from the 2018 roster have become free agents; Conor O’Brien, Bilal Duckett, Greg Jordan, Henry Kalungi, James Kiffe, Je-Vaughn Watson, Kay Voser, Mutaya Mwape, Cordell Cato and Donnie Smith (retirement). Former Independence midfielder Yann Ekra has signed with the Tampa Bay Rowdies and former Independence forward Eamon Zayed has signed with Chattanooga Red Wolves SC. The Independence wishes the best of luck to each player and thanks them for their contributions in advancing the club.

The Independence will return to USL Championship action next spring at the Sportsplex at Matthews. For more information on 2019 Season Memberships, please visit https://www.charlotteindependence.com or call the Independence front office at 704-206-1515.

Charlotte (NC) — On Tuesday, December 11th, the Charlotte Independence professional soccer team will introduce the club’s new Head Coach Jim McGuinness and General Manager Mike Jeffries at Jack’s House Soccer Bar and Retail Store. The Independence welcome fans and media the first opportunity to meet the new head coach. The press conference will be live streamed via the team’s social media pages. A panel of team executives including Head Coach Jim McGuinness, Lead Owner Dan DiMicco, President and Managing Partner Jim McPhilliamy, and General Manager Mike Jeffries will be available for comment. The press conference will be live streamed via the team’s social media pages.

RECENT NEWS: INDEPENDENCE ANNOUNCE TWO MANAGEMENT CHANGES

 WHAT: Head Coach Introductory Press Conference

WHEN: Tuesday, December 11th ~ 11:00 AM ET

WHERE: Jack’s House Soccer Bar and Retail Store

1523 Elizabeth Ave., Charlotte, NC 28204

Charlotte (NC) — On Tuesday, December 11th, the Charlotte Independence professional soccer team will introduce the club’s new Head Coach Jim McGuinness and General Manager Mike Jeffries at Jack’s House Soccer Bar and Retail Store. The Independence welcome fans and media the first opportunity to meet the new head coach. The press conference will be live streamed via the team’s social media pages. A panel of team executives including Head Coach Jim McGuinness, Lead Owner Dan DiMicco, President and Managing Partner Jim McPhilliamy, and General Manager Mike Jeffries will be available for comment. The press conference will be live streamed via the team’s social media pages.

RECENT NEWS: INDEPENDENCE ANNOUNCE TWO MANAGEMENT CHANGES

 WHAT: Head Coach Introductory Press Conference

WHEN: Tuesday, December 11th ~ 11:00 AM ET

WHERE: Jack’s House Soccer Bar and Retail Store

1523 Elizabeth Ave., Charlotte, NC 28204

About Charlotte Independence:

Charlotte Independence, a United Soccer League professional soccer team, currently plays home games at the Sportsplex at Matthews. For details on the upcoming season and Season Memberships, visit https://www.charlotteindependence.com or call 704-206-1515.

About Charlotte Independence:

Charlotte Independence, a United Soccer League professional soccer team, currently plays home games at the Sportsplex at Matthews. For details on the upcoming season and Season Memberships, visit https://www.charlotteindependence.com or call 704-206-1515.

Charlotte (NC) — On Friday, the Charlotte Independence professional soccer team announced two club management changes in Jim McGuinness’ appointment as the team’s Head Coach and Mike Jeffries’ promotion from Head Coach to General Manager. These initial changes are designed to move the club to the next level in an increasingly competitive USL Championship division.

“These changes are about building the club upward”, said Independence Managing Partner Jim McPhilliamy. “With our stadium deal now in place at American Legion Memorial Stadium, our ownership group felt it was the right time to invest in new coaching talent and build for the future. We’re able to retain the institutional soccer knowledge Mike Jeffries has accumulated over his lifetime in soccer, while bringing in a new perspective and coaching talent in Jim McGuinness. The combination will position the Independence as one of the strongest competitive teams in USL Championship for years to come.”

McGuinness, 46, brings coaching experience from Derry City FC, iconic Scotland Premiership powerhouse side Celtic FC, and most recently, as an assistant coach for Chinese Super League side Beijing Sinobo Guoan Football Club under current Head Coach Roger Schmidt — the former Head Coach of German Bundesliga side Bayer Leverkusen. McGuinness holds a UEFA Class A Coaching License.

“I am very excited about the prospect of taking up the head coach role at the Charlotte Independence and am both proud and grateful to the club for having put its faith in me,” said Independence Head Coach Jim McGuinness. “I knew from early on in our discussions that the club and I shared a vision for what we want to achieve and now it’s about everybody involved working hard to make that happen.”

McGuinness’ unique approach to coaching has yielded team performance improvements at every stop. In his last job, Beijing improved from ninth in 2017 to fourth in 2018, also winning a record-tying fifth Chinese FA Cup Championship. Prior to his move to soccer, McGuinness had a storied career as a Gaelic Football player and manager for Donegal leading the club to their first All-Ireland Senior Football Championship in 20 years.

“I have learned a great deal already about the USL and firmly believe we can be really competitive in the USL Championship in 2019,” said Independence Head Coach Jim McGuinness. “It’s an exciting time for the game in the United States which is growing all the time and I believe the Charlotte Independence will have a major influence in the years to come.” 

As a prominent sportsman in Ireland, the Irish community in Charlotte is delighted to have such a prominent national figure join the local professional soccer team.

“I wish to Congratulate Charlotte Independence on securing Jim McGuinness as its head coach,” said Ireland’s Consul General for the Southeast U.S. Shane Stephens. “Given McGuinness’ past success in Ireland, and internationally, it looks like they have bet on a winner.”

Mike Jeffries takes on a new role within the club transitioning to General Manager with more than 40 years of coaching and playing experience, which includes winning the Hermann Trophy with Duke University, multiple caps for the U.S. Men’s National Team, a MLS Cup Championship, a Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup title, and scouting for Bob Bradley’s U.S. Men’s National Team during the 2010 World Cup in South Africa. From 2016-17, he led the Independence to consecutive playoff appearances. 

Helping his new head coach build a young and talented roster which can compete for USL Championships titles, Jeffries will continue to guide the team to further success in the years to come. 

“I look forward to working with Jim McGuinness in continuing to build the franchise to reach our goals of winning trophies”, said Independence General Manager Mike Jeffries. “I believe in what we have built in Charlotte with our style of play, as well as our ability to compete and succeed. I am confident Jim will be able to build upon that platform. I am excited about the opportunity to build the Independence brand and team over the coming years as the General Manager.”

The Independence’s current General Manager Tom Engstrom will be staying with the club as the senior advisor to Managing Partner and President Jim McPhilliamy. 

“We will continue to rely on Tom’s experience to move our team forward, especially on player identification and development,” said McPhilliamy.

The Independence will return to USL Championship action next spring at the Sportsplex at Matthews. For more information on 2019 Season Memberships, please visit https://www.charlotteindependence.com or call the Independence front office at 704-206-1515.

Charlotte (NC) — On Friday, the Charlotte Independence professional soccer team announced two club management changes in Jim McGuinness’ appointment as the team’s Head Coach and Mike Jeffries’ promotion from Head Coach to General Manager. These initial changes are designed to move the club to the next level in an increasingly competitive USL Championship division.

“These changes are about building the club upward”, said Independence Managing Partner Jim McPhilliamy. “With our stadium deal now in place at American Legion Memorial Stadium, our ownership group felt it was the right time to invest in new coaching talent and build for the future. We’re able to retain the institutional soccer knowledge Mike Jeffries has accumulated over his lifetime in soccer, while bringing in a new perspective and coaching talent in Jim McGuinness. The combination will position the Independence as one of the strongest competitive teams in USL Championship for years to come.”

McGuinness, 46, brings coaching experience from Derry City FC, iconic Scotland Premiership powerhouse side Celtic FC, and most recently, as an assistant coach for Chinese Super League side Beijing Sinobo Guoan Football Club under current Head Coach Roger Schmidt — the former Head Coach of German Bundesliga side Bayer Leverkusen. McGuinness holds a UEFA Class A Coaching License.

“I am very excited about the prospect of taking up the head coach role at the Charlotte Independence and am both proud and grateful to the club for having put its faith in me,” said Independence Head Coach Jim McGuinness. “I knew from early on in our discussions that the club and I shared a vision for what we want to achieve and now it’s about everybody involved working hard to make that happen.”

McGuinness’ unique approach to coaching has yielded team performance improvements at every stop. In his last job, Beijing improved from ninth in 2017 to fourth in 2018, also winning a record-tying fifth Chinese FA Cup Championship. Prior to his move to soccer, McGuinness had a storied career as a Gaelic Football player and manager for Donegal leading the club to their first All-Ireland Senior Football Championship in 20 years.

“I have learned a great deal already about the USL and firmly believe we can be really competitive in the USL Championship in 2019,” said Independence Head Coach Jim McGuinness. “It’s an exciting time for the game in the United States which is growing all the time and I believe the Charlotte Independence will have a major influence in the years to come.” 

As a prominent sportsman in Ireland, the Irish community in Charlotte is delighted to have such a prominent national figure join the local professional soccer team.

“I wish to Congratulate Charlotte Independence on securing Jim McGuinness as its head coach,” said Ireland’s Consul General for the Southeast U.S. Shane Stephens. “Given McGuinness’ past success in Ireland, and internationally, it looks like they have bet on a winner.”

Mike Jeffries takes on a new role within the club transitioning to General Manager with more than 40 years of coaching and playing experience, which includes winning the Hermann Trophy with Duke University, multiple caps for the U.S. Men’s National Team, a MLS Cup Championship, a Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup title, and scouting for Bob Bradley’s U.S. Men’s National Team during the 2010 World Cup in South Africa. From 2016-17, he led the Independence to consecutive playoff appearances. 

Helping his new head coach build a young and talented roster which can compete for USL Championships titles, Jeffries will continue to guide the team to further success in the years to come. 

“I look forward to working with Jim McGuinness in continuing to build the franchise to reach our goals of winning trophies”, said Independence General Manager Mike Jeffries. “I believe in what we have built in Charlotte with our style of play, as well as our ability to compete and succeed. I am confident Jim will be able to build upon that platform. I am excited about the opportunity to build the Independence brand and team over the coming years as the General Manager.”

The Independence’s current General Manager Tom Engstrom will be staying with the club as the senior advisor to Managing Partner and President Jim McPhilliamy. 

“We will continue to rely on Tom’s experience to move our team forward, especially on player identification and development,” said McPhilliamy.

The Independence will return to USL Championship action next spring at the Sportsplex at Matthews. For more information on 2019 Season Memberships, please visit https://www.charlotteindependence.com or call the Independence front office at 704-206-1515.

2019 Charlotte Independence December Open Tryouts

The Charlotte Independence professional soccer team will be hosting open tryouts for their upcoming 2019 USL season. Open tryouts will take place Thursday, December 6th.  Open Tryout standouts will be invited to return for the Player Combine on Friday, December 7th and Saturday, December 8th. 

All three days of tryouts will be held at the Sportsplex at Matthews: 2425 Sports Pkwy, Matthews, NC 28105. The cost for tryouts is $140 per participant.

Registration will be limited to ensure each player gets a fair chance to observed by the Charlotte Independence technical staff. Each participant will be provided a Charlotte Independence t-shirt to wear during tryouts.

The Independence will also hold another round of open tryouts will take place Thursday, February 7 through Friday, February 8, 2019. Additional information can be found here. 

*Open Tryout Participants MUST be at least 17 years or older*

2019 Charlotte Independence December Open Tryouts

The Charlotte Independence professional soccer team will be hosting open tryouts for their upcoming 2019 USL season. Open tryouts will take place Thursday, December 6th.  Open Tryout standouts will be invited to return for the Player Combine on Friday, December 7th and Saturday, December 8th. 

All three days of tryouts will be held at the Sportsplex at Matthews: 2425 Sports Pkwy, Matthews, NC 28105. The cost for tryouts is $140 per participant.

Registration will be limited to ensure each player gets a fair chance to observed by the Charlotte Independence technical staff. Each participant will be provided a Charlotte Independence t-shirt to wear during tryouts.

The Independence will also hold another round of open tryouts will take place Thursday, February 7 through Friday, February 8, 2019. Additional information can be found here. 

*Open Tryout Participants MUST be at least 17 years or older*

Items to Note:

Transportation: Transportation is the player's responsibility.

Housing: Housing is the player's responsibility

VISA Sponsorship: No visa sponsorship will be provided to attend either event.

Tentative Tryout Schedule

Day 1

8:30 a.m.- Player Check In. Players will be assigned to Group 1 or Group 2.

9:00 a.m.- Group 1 warm up, technical work and small-sided games

10:45 a.m.- Group 2 warm up, technical work and small-sided games

LUNCH BREAK

2:00 p.m.- Full Field Game 1

3:15 p.m.- Full Field Game 2

*Day 1 Evening- Approximately 30 players will be invited back for a full field game on Friday morning. The invitation will be provided via email.

Day 2 and Day 3

Players will be notified after Day 1 if they will be invited back for Day 2 and Day 3 of tryouts.

Items to Note:

Transportation: Transportation is the player’s responsibility.

Housing: Housing is the player’s responsibility

VISA Sponsorship: No visa sponsorship will be provided to attend either event.

Tentative Tryout Schedule

Day 1

8:30 a.m.- Player Check In. Players will be assigned to Group 1 or Group 2.

9:00 a.m.- Group 1 warm up, technical work and small-sided games

10:45 a.m.- Group 2 warm up, technical work and small-sided games

LUNCH BREAK

2:00 p.m.- Full Field Game 1

3:15 p.m.- Full Field Game 2

*Day 1 Evening- Approximately 30 players will be invited back for a full field game on Friday morning. The invitation will be provided via email.

Day 2 and Day 3

Players will be notified after Day 1 if they will be invited back for Day 2 and Day 3 of tryouts.

2019 Charlotte Independence Open Tryouts Registration

The Charlotte Independence professional soccer team will be hosting open tryouts for their upcoming 2019 USL season. Open tryouts will take place Thursday, February 7 through Friday, February 8, 2019.

Both days of tryouts will be held at the Sportsplex at Matthews: 2425 Sports Pkwy, Matthews, NC 28105. The cost for tryouts is $140 per participant for early registration before February 1, 2019. Any late registrations after February 1 will be charged $155.

Registration will be limited to ensure each player gets a fair chance to observed by the Charlotte Independence technical staff. Each participant will be provided a Charlotte Independence t-shirt to wear during tryouts.

*Participants MUST be at least 17 years or older to try out.*

2019 Charlotte Independence Open Tryouts Registration

The Charlotte Independence professional soccer team will be hosting open tryouts for their upcoming 2019 USL season. Open tryouts will take place Thursday, February 7 through Friday, February 8, 2019.

Both days of tryouts will be held at the Sportsplex at Matthews: 2425 Sports Pkwy, Matthews, NC 28105. The cost for tryouts is $140 per participant for early registration before February 1, 2019. Any late registrations after February 1 will be charged $155.

Registration will be limited to ensure each player gets a fair chance to observed by the Charlotte Independence technical staff. Each participant will be provided a Charlotte Independence t-shirt to wear during tryouts.

*Participants MUST be at least 17 years or older to try out.*

Items to Note:

Transportation: Transportation is the player's responsibility.

Housing: Housing is the player's responsibility

VISA Sponsorship: No visa sponsorship will be provided to attend either event.

Tentative Tryout Schedule

Day 1

8:30 a.m.- Player Check In. Players will be assigned to Group 1 or Group 2.

9:00 a.m.- Group 1 warm up, technical work and small-sided games

10:45 a.m.- Group 2 warm up, technical work and small-sided games

LUNCH BREAK

2:00 p.m.- Full Field Game 1

3:15 p.m.- Full Field Game 2

4:30 p.m.- Full Field Game 3

5:45 p.m.- Full Field Game 4

*Day 1 Evening- Approximately 30 players will be invited back for a full field game on Friday morning. Invitation will be provided via email.

Day 2

9:00 a.m.- Players arrive

9:30 a.m.- Warm ups begin.

10:00 a.m.- Game begins.

Items to Note:

Transportation: Transportation is the player’s responsibility.

Housing: Housing is the player’s responsibility

VISA Sponsorship: No visa sponsorship will be provided to attend either event.

Tentative Tryout Schedule

Day 1

8:30 a.m.- Player Check In. Players will be assigned to Group 1 or Group 2.

9:00 a.m.- Group 1 warm up, technical work and small-sided games

10:45 a.m.- Group 2 warm up, technical work and small-sided games

LUNCH BREAK

2:00 p.m.- Full Field Game 1

3:15 p.m.- Full Field Game 2

4:30 p.m.- Full Field Game 3

5:45 p.m.- Full Field Game 4

*Day 1 Evening- Approximately 30 players will be invited back for a full field game on Friday morning. Invitation will be provided via email.

Day 2

9:00 a.m.- Players arrive

9:30 a.m.- Warm ups begin.

10:00 a.m.- Game begins.

Charlotte (NC) — On Friday, the Charlotte Independence professional soccer team announced Goalkeeper Coach and Team Operations Director Joel Tyson will join New Mexico United Head Coach Troy Lesesne’s technical staff in the same role. Coach Tyson joined the Independence ahead of the 2017 season, and since contributed a playoff appearance and the franchise’s best season.

"This club and this city have been incredible to me and our time here has been filled with great people and positive experiences,” said Tyson. “I am thankful for the supporters, especially Jack's Militia, that have given and continue to give their time to this club and these players. Moreover, I can't thank the players enough that I've been lucky to work with here. Their commitment, passion, and dedication to this club make this a special place.”

The Charlotte Independence thanks Joel for his steadfast integrity, adamant leadership, and relentless drive for the success of the club. It was a pleasure to have Coach Tyson on the Independence staff and the organization is proud of his achievements. As the Independence has a lasting goal to build the careers of its coaches, players and employees, we wish Coach Tyson the best of luck in his next endeavors.

“Joel has been fantastic here,” said Independence Head Coach Mike Jeffries. “He's done a tremendous job with the goalkeepers and I think they've all walked off feeling like they've improved and enjoyed the day-to-day, which Joel is very passionate about. Within the group, he was a fantastic assistant in terms of his ability to relate to the players. Joel is extraordinarily organized and was a big help in a lot of the administrative and organizational type aspects. All those are characteristics that we'll definitely miss.”

Under the leadership of Coach Tyson in his first season with the club, the Independence goalkeepers recorded six clean sheets, 90 saves, and the Eastern Conference’s fourth-best goal differential. During his breakout 2017 season, goalkeeper Cody Mizell played in 32 games on his way to earning USL Save of the Month for May, USL Save of the Year Runner-Up, and being one of five USL Goalkeeper of the Year nominations. Mizell earned a short-term contract with the Colorado Rapids where he trained alongside US Men's National Team goalkeeper Tim Howard.

“I am extremely appreciative of the opportunity given to me by Mike Jeffries, Tom Engstrom, Rich Posipanko, and the rest of the Independence organization,” said Tyson. “Mike has been a great mentor and friend in my time here and I look forward to seeing the continued success of this club in years to come."

In August, former Independence Assistant Coach Troy Lesesne was named the first head coach for United Soccer League (USL) expansion team New Mexico United. Having previously worked together, the addition of Coach Tyson is a natural fit for the first-time head coach.

“In my conversations with Troy as he was looking at the [New Mexico United] job, Joel moving on with him was a possibility, so I think it's a good situation for Joel,” said Jeffries. “I think he's pretty excited to move up the ladder in terms of responsibility and staffing, as well as reuniting with Troy.”

The Independence will return to USL action next spring at the Sportsplex at Matthews. For more information on 2019 Season Memberships, please visit https://www.charlotteindependence.com or call the Independence front office at 704-206-1515.

Charlotte (NC) — On Friday, the Charlotte Independence professional soccer team announced Goalkeeper Coach and Team Operations Director Joel Tyson will join New Mexico United Head Coach Troy Lesesne’s technical staff in the same role. Coach Tyson joined the Independence ahead of the 2017 season, and since contributed a playoff appearance and the franchise’s best season.

“This club and this city have been incredible to me and our time here has been filled with great people and positive experiences,” said Tyson. “I am thankful for the supporters, especially Jack’s Militia, that have given and continue to give their time to this club and these players. Moreover, I can’t thank the players enough that I’ve been lucky to work with here. Their commitment, passion, and dedication to this club make this a special place.”

The Charlotte Independence thanks Joel for his steadfast integrity, adamant leadership, and relentless drive for the success of the club. It was a pleasure to have Coach Tyson on the Independence staff and the organization is proud of his achievements. As the Independence has a lasting goal to build the careers of its coaches, players and employees, we wish Coach Tyson the best of luck in his next endeavors.

“Joel has been fantastic here,” said Independence Head Coach Mike Jeffries. “He’s done a tremendous job with the goalkeepers and I think they’ve all walked off feeling like they’ve improved and enjoyed the day-to-day, which Joel is very passionate about. Within the group, he was a fantastic assistant in terms of his ability to relate to the players. Joel is extraordinarily organized and was a big help in a lot of the administrative and organizational type aspects. All those are characteristics that we’ll definitely miss.”

Under the leadership of Coach Tyson in his first season with the club, the Independence goalkeepers recorded six clean sheets, 90 saves, and the Eastern Conference’s fourth-best goal differential. During his breakout 2017 season, goalkeeper Cody Mizell played in 32 games on his way to earning USL Save of the Month for May, USL Save of the Year Runner-Up, and being one of five USL Goalkeeper of the Year nominations. Mizell earned a short-term contract with the Colorado Rapids where he trained alongside US Men’s National Team goalkeeper Tim Howard.

“I am extremely appreciative of the opportunity given to me by Mike Jeffries, Tom Engstrom, Rich Posipanko, and the rest of the Independence organization,” said Tyson. “Mike has been a great mentor and friend in my time here and I look forward to seeing the continued success of this club in years to come.”

In August, former Independence Assistant Coach Troy Lesesne was named the first head coach for United Soccer League (USL) expansion team New Mexico United. Having previously worked together, the addition of Coach Tyson is a natural fit for the first-time head coach.

“In my conversations with Troy as he was looking at the [New Mexico United] job, Joel moving on with him was a possibility, so I think it’s a good situation for Joel,” said Jeffries. “I think he’s pretty excited to move up the ladder in terms of responsibility and staffing, as well as reuniting with Troy.”

The Independence will return to USL action next spring at the Sportsplex at Matthews. For more information on 2019 Season Memberships, please visit https://www.charlotteindependence.com or call the Independence front office at 704-206-1515.