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Sportsplex at Matthews Regulations for Home Preseason Game (2/25/18)

Charlotte, N.C. — The Charlotte Independence, a United Soccer League (USL) professional soccer team, will face North Carolina FC in a pre-season friendly at the Sportsplex at Matthews on Sunday, February 25th at 1:00PM ET. The game will be open to the public with free admission and free parking.

For safety purposes and due to the current stadium expansion, all fans attending Sunday’s preseason friendly should be aware of the following:

All Sportsplex at Matthews Stadium Policies and Fan Code of Conduct apply; can be found here
Fans must enter through the Main Gate (south entrance)
Fans are only permitted to sit in Sections 111 & 112
The Press Box side restrooms will be open
No concession vendors will be present
Only authorized personnel will be allowed on the field

For further questions regarding Sunday’s preseason match, please call the Independence main office at 704-206-1515.

Charlotte Independence, a United Soccer League professional soccer team, will kick off the 2018 season at the Sportsplex at Matthews on Saturday, March 17th when the Independence hosts Ottawa Fury FC. For details on the upcoming schedule and Season Memberships visit https://www.charlotteindependence.com or call 704-206-1515.

For safety purposes and due to the current stadium expansion, all fans attending Sunday’s preseason friendly should be aware of the following:

All Sportsplex at Matthews Stadium Policies and Fan Code of Conduct apply; can be found here
Fans must enter through the Main Gate (south entrance)
Fans are only permitted to sit in Sections 111 & 112
The Press Box side restrooms will be open
No concession vendors will be present
Only authorized personnel will be allowed on the field

For further questions regarding Sunday’s preseason match, please call the Independence main office at 704-206-1515.

Martinez Earns MLS, Rapids Contract

“To the Charlotte Independence staff, ownership, front office, fans, and especially my teammates; I want to say thank you from the bottom of my heart. I know I would not be here if it wasn't for them. I'm forever grateful to the Charlotte Independence organization and all the people involved.” – Enzo Martinez

Charlotte, N.C. — The Charlotte Independence professional soccer team announced on Monday midfielder Enzo Martinez was acquired by the Colorado Rapids Soccer Club (Major League Soccer). Martinez, the Independence franchise leader in goals scored, was an United Soccer League (USL) MVP Finalist for the past two seasons.

“We're all excited and happy for him,” said Independence Head Coach Mike Jeffries. “He's a player who has worked extraordinarily hard and been successful the last several years in the USL. He earned the opportunity and deserves it. Most importantly, I think he has the heart, desire and skill-set to contribute to a MLS team.”

An All-USL First team selection for 2016 and 2017, Martinez excelled in his three seasons with the Independence amassing 28 goals scored in 83 games. Martinez made Independence franchise history marking the club’s second hat trick this past season in a 3-1 win over eventual USL Champions, Louisville City FC.

“To the Charlotte Independence staff, ownership, front office, fans, and especially my teammates; I want to say thank you from the bottom of my heart. I know I would not be here if it wasn’t for them. I’m forever grateful to the Charlotte Independence organization and all the people involved.” – Enzo Martinez

“We’re all excited and happy for him,” said Independence Head Coach Mike Jeffries. “He’s a player who has worked extraordinarily hard and been successful the last several years in the USL. He earned the opportunity and deserves it. Most importantly, I think he has the heart, desire and skill-set to contribute to a MLS team.”

“Charlotte has made the man and player that I am, today,” said Martinez. “They helped me grow, helped me understand the game at a level, when I was younger, I didn't understand. I feel like I'm ready for this new opportunity.”

Martinez’s opportunity with the Rapids began in January preseason.

“Enzo has really stood out for us this preseason,” said Rapids Executive Vice President & General Manager, Pádraig Smith. “He’s been with us from the first day of training camp and has impressed everyone with his quality and work ethic. His résumé at the USL level speaks for itself and we’re looking forward to seeing what he can do in Major League Soccer.”

“They're noticing what goes on with us,” said Jeffries of the relationship between the Rapids and Independence. “They're looking at our guys and recognizing our guys have potential to move up. That's important to guys coming into our team and system.”

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So how does the Independence re-tool upon Martinez’s departure?

“Any team who loses a two-time MVP finalist, that's a huge task,” said Jeffries. “It's not so much replacing Enzo, it's just finding what's next. The group that comes in will have a slightly different look. [Enzo's absences] may alter some of the things we do and how we play. It remains to be seen.”

Charlotte’s Professional Soccer team kicks off the 2018 season at the Sportsplex at Matthews on Saturday, March 17th when the Independence host Ottawa Fury FC. Tickets are now available. For details on the upcoming schedule and Season Memberships visit https://www.charlotteindependence.com or call 704-206-1515.

“Charlotte has made the man and player that I am, today,” said Martinez. “They helped me grow, helped me understand the game at a level, when I was younger, I didn’t understand. I feel like I’m ready for this new opportunity.”

Martinez’s opportunity with the Rapids began in January preseason.

“They’re noticing what goes on with us,” said Jeffries of the relationship between the Rapids and Independence. “They’re looking at our guys and recognizing our guys have potential to move up. That’s important to guys coming into our team and system.”

RECENT NEWS: SINGLE GAME TICKETS NOW ON SALE

So how does the Independence re-tool upon Martinez’s departure?

“Any team who loses a two-time MVP finalist, that’s a huge task,” said Jeffries. “It’s not so much replacing Enzo, it’s just finding what’s next. The group that comes in will have a slightly different look. [Enzo’s absences] may alter some of the things we do and how we play. It remains to be seen.”

World Cup, K League Veteran Joins Independence

Charlotte, N.C. — South Korean international player Jungsoo Lee joined the Charlotte Independence professional soccer team, on Thursday, pending league and federation approval, as well as a receipt of his International Transfer Clearance.

“I really appreciate all the support from the club,” said Lee via translator. “I am so excited about joining the new family and environment. I will do my best to keep our team's success and hopefully give some inspiration for our Charlotte soccer community as well.”

From 2008-13, Lee appeared in 54 international games for the Korea Republic National Football Team including four starts in the South Africa 2010 FIFA World Cup. Lee scored versus Nigeria and Greece to help South Korea advance to the knockout stage, only trailing Argentina in Group B.

“He's a guy who has a lot of national team experience for South Korea, and experience in the World Cup,” said Independence Head Coach Mike Jeffries. “For our guys to have the opportunity to be around that level and to learn from him is a big plus.”

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The 38-year-old, Lee has played for high-profile K League 1 (South Korean first division) clubs FC Seoul, Suwon Samsung Bluewings and Incheon United FC. Primarily as a center back, Lee has a nose for scoring including five K League goals, ten J1 League goals (Japanese first division), and five Qatar Stars League goals (Qatar first division).

“Just in the few days he's been here, you can see the class and ideas he has in terms of his ability to see plays,” said Jeffries. “At his age, getting fit and adjusting to the physicality is going to take a little bit of time, but the soccer part is fantastic.”

The Gimhae, South Korea native speaks a little english at this point, but relishes the opportunity to learn about American culture and the Charlotte community.

“He's excited about the challenge,” said Jeffries. “It's a new experience for us because we've not had a South Korean player in before, so the language barrier is a little bit of a tricky one. He's a very sharp guy, so I think he'll adapt very quickly, but soccer is soccer.”

The Independence will kickoff the 2018 season at the Sportsplex at Matthews on Saturday, March 17th versus Ottawa Fury FC. 2018 Season Memberships are available online and by calling 704-206-1515. For details on the full 2018 USL regular season schedule, please visit https://www.charlotteindependence.com.

“I really appreciate all the support from the club,” said Lee via translator. “I am so excited about joining the new family and environment. I will do my best to keep our team’s success and hopefully give some inspiration for our Charlotte soccer community as well.”

“He’s a guy who has a lot of national team experience for South Korea, and experience in the World Cup,” said Independence Head Coach Mike Jeffries. “For our guys to have the opportunity to be around that level and to learn from him is a big plus.”

RECENT NEWS: INDEPENDENCE ANNOUNCE PRESEASON SCHEDULE

“Just in the few days he’s been here, you can see the class and ideas he has in terms of his ability to see plays,” said Jeffries. “At his age, getting fit and adjusting to the physicality is going to take a little bit of time, but the soccer part is fantastic.”

The Gimhae, South Korea native speaks a little english at this point, but relishes the opportunity to learn about American culture and the Charlotte community.

“He’s excited about the challenge,” said Jeffries. “It’s a new experience for us because we’ve not had a South Korean player in before, so the language barrier is a little bit of a tricky one. He’s a very sharp guy, so I think he’ll adapt very quickly, but soccer is soccer.”

Independence Fortifies Midfield with Re-Signing

Charlotte N.C. — The Charlotte Independence professional soccer team returns imposing midfielder Yann Ekra for a third season, pending league and federation approval. Ekra enters his seventh season in the USL and 11th season as a professional.

“Yann has a fantastic character,” said Independence Head Coach Mike Jeffries. “It's nice to be able to bring him back because he knows the expectations here. He's been a guy we've been able to count on in various situations.”

RECENT NEWS: INDEPENDENCE ANNOUNCE PRESEASON SCHEDULE

“I enjoy being here with all the boys,” said Ekra. “I know most of the guys and I have a good relationship with the coaches, too. It was great to hear the interest to have me back.”

In the past two seasons with the Independence, Ekra has contributed in bulk amassing 2,400 minutes played in 43 games. Along with his longevity, Ekra’s physicality makes him a formidable competitor.

“He really provides us with a good physical, two-way presences in the middle of the field,” said Jeffries. “His ability to hold the ball under pressure is probably second to no one in the league. He's very strong and powerful at it.”

Ekra’s primary position has shifted according to the makeup of the team in the past two seasons. With many new players joining the squad for the upcoming season, Ekra’s role may shift, again.

“He's been a guys we've pushed outside his comfort zone for the last couple years in terms of his soccer,” said Jeffries. “How we played last year, Yann's qualities fit better for a ten; underneath the striker. The group is going to be different, so the way we play is going to be a little different, which makes it interesting to see where he fits best as the season goes on.”

For Ekra, his preference in positioning is wherever he best services the team.

“Whatever I can do to help the team,” said Ekra. “Whether it be up top or in the middle, I'll do what is good for the team. I enjoy playing in all those positions.”

“Yann has a fantastic character,” said Independence Head Coach Mike Jeffries. “It’s nice to be able to bring him back because he knows the expectations here. He’s been a guy we’ve been able to count on in various situations.”

RECENT NEWS: INDEPENDENCE ANNOUNCE PRESEASON SCHEDULE

“I enjoy being here with all the boys,” said Ekra. “I know most of the guys and I have a good relationship with the coaches, too. It was great to hear the interest to have me back.”

In the past two seasons with the Independence, Ekra has contributed in bulk amassing 2,400 minutes played in 43 games. Along with his longevity, Ekra’s physicality makes him a formidable competitor.

Ekra’s primary position has shifted according to the makeup of the team in the past two seasons. With many new players joining the squad for the upcoming season, Ekra’s role may shift, again.

“He’s been a guys we’ve pushed outside his comfort zone for the last couple years in terms of his soccer,” said Jeffries. “How we played last year, Yann’s qualities fit better for a ten; underneath the striker. The group is going to be different, so the way we play is going to be a little different, which makes it interesting to see where he fits best as the season goes on.”

For Ekra, his preference in positioning is wherever he best services the team.

“Whatever I can do to help the team,” said Ekra. “Whether it be up top or in the middle, I’ll do what is good for the team. I enjoy playing in all those positions.”

Independence Announce Three Preseason Matches

Charlotte, N.C. — On Tuesday, the Charlotte Independence professional soccer team announced three preseason matches ahead of the 2018 USL regular season. The home preseason game on Sunday, February 25th versus in-state rivals North Carolina FC will be hosted at the Sportsplex at Matthews at 1:00 PM ET and is open to the public.

Times and location of all preseason games are subject to change. Additional preseason matches may be added at a later date.

Independence Sign Rising Stars

Charlotte, N.C. — The Charlotte Independence announced the signing of a pair of 18-year-olds in Calvin Doum and Daniel Steedman, on Tuesday. The club’s signing of Doum is pending league and federation approval, as well as a receipt of the International Transfer Clearance. Steedman’s academy contract is pending league and federation approval.

Over the past few seasons, the Charlotte Independence professional soccer team has made a point of emphasis to bring in domestic and international youth players in hopes of developing the next generation of professional talent.

“The USL is a very competitive Division II league,” said Independence Head Coach Mike Jeffries. “Part of being a Division II league is that players are going to want to progress from Division II to higher levels throughout their careers. The opportunity for young players to come in to learn, grow, and improve and then move on is a huge motivation for them in playing in the USL.”

RECENT NEWS: INDEPENDENCE REPORT TO TRAINING CAMP

Doum, who fills an international spot for the Independence, is a raw talent Jeffries scouted in his offseason trip to Cameroon.

“Calvin is a project, for sure,” said Jeffries. “He's also a project we're really excited about. He's a really strong, physical, defensive presence. He was really good in one-on-one defending situations, and I think he's surprisingly good as a technical player.”

By contrast of traveling to Africa to find young talent, Head Coach Mike Jeffries is looking for ascending talent in his figurative backyard.

“It breaks down into several categories,” said Jeffries. “Local, young players that come in who play with pros at age 16, 17, are provided a development opportunity they wouldn't get otherwise. It's a great opportunity for them whether they sign a professional contract at 17 or go on to play a couple years in college.”

Steedman is an U19 U.S. Soccer Development Academy product that falls into that category of player. He joins recently signed goalkeeper, Brandon Miller and UNC Charlotte soccer alumni, Donnie Smith as the third Charlotte Soccer Academy product to sign with the Independence this season.

“We've had Daniel in at various times over the past couple of years and we've always enjoyed working with him,” said Jeffries. “He really has a good mentality for the game and a good attitude. Coming in, he fits how we play and what we do.”

RECENT NEWS: INDEPENDENCE REPORT TO TRAINING CAMP

Doum, who fills an international spot for the Independence, is a raw talent Jeffries scouted in his offseason trip to Cameroon.

“Calvin is a project, for sure,” said Jeffries. “He’s also a project we’re really excited about. He’s a really strong, physical, defensive presence. He was really good in one-on-one defending situations, and I think he’s surprisingly good as a technical player.”

By contrast of traveling to Africa to find young talent, Head Coach Mike Jeffries is looking for ascending talent in his figurative backyard.

“It breaks down into several categories,” said Jeffries. “Local, young players that come in who play with pros at age 16, 17, are provided a development opportunity they wouldn’t get otherwise. It’s a great opportunity for them whether they sign a professional contract at 17 or go on to play a couple years in college.”

“We’ve had Daniel in at various times over the past couple of years and we’ve always enjoyed working with him,” said Jeffries. “He really has a good mentality for the game and a good attitude. Coming in, he fits how we play and what we do.”

Independence Report to Training Camp

The process of the Charlotte Independence professional soccer team getting to a third consecutive USL playoff and beyond, starts Monday morning as training camp kicks off day one.

The Independence have eight players under contract, but only seven will report with as Charlotte’s USL MVP finalist still trains with the Colorado Rapids. Trialist and targeted player signings will supplement training camp practices until the roster is rounded out. In the meantime, the Independence coaching staff is comfortable with how the roster is tracking.

“It's a fluid situation where we still have to evaluate guys in the first couple week to complete our roster,” said Independence Assistant Coach Troy Lesesne. “We have a very good idea about the guys we're going to target in certain positions and hopefully we can execute that in the coming weeks.”

INDEPENDENCE SCHEDULE: ADD GAMES TO YOUR CALENDAR

Independence fans may feel their team is behind in preseason preparation because 13 USL squads participated in friendly matches this weekend and other teams are closing in on a complete rosters. For example, the Tampa Bay Rowdies have 23 players under contract and one preseason game under their belt. But the Independence coaches are not measuring progress by comparing themselves to other clubs.

“You're constantly being bombarded with these press releases from around the league,” said Lesesne. “Teams are signing this player and that player. But for us, it's about getting the right player for the Charlotte Independence. We have a good idea who that is.”

A delicate challenge the Independence coaching staff must face is balancing 33 days of preparation before the season opener, with a long perspective of a regular season spanning eight months.

“Where you are week one is vastly different where you are in week twenty,” said Lesesne. “For us, it's about the process of building towards the end of the season and make sure we're in a position to be in the playoffs and compete for a championship.”

“That's always tricky,” said Independence Head Coach Mike Jeffries of managing a short preseason with a long regular season. “We have to be careful in preseason, because guys have been off for a while. Not only getting fit, but maintaining health and being smart about injuries; it's vital to how we want to manage our start. It's important that guys play throughout the whole preseason, to be sharp.”

Head Coach Mike Jeffries says the short preseason may expedite some coaching elements such as implementing tactics, but he anticipates easing into week one.

“Pretty basic, introductory sort of week,” said Jeffries. “We'll spend the first week of training working on our fitness and working on getting guys back into playing mode, a proper mentality, and the basic philosophical things of how we play.”

Charlotte’s Professional Soccer team will kick off the 2018 regular season at the Sportsplex at Matthews on Saturday, March 17th when the Independence hosts Ottawa Fury FC. For details on the upcoming schedule and Season Memberships visit https://www.charlotteindependence.com or call 704-206-1515.

The process of the Charlotte Independence professional soccer team getting to a third consecutive USL playoff and beyond, starts Monday morning as training camp kicks off day one.

“It’s a fluid situation where we still have to evaluate guys in the first couple week to complete our roster,” said Independence Assistant Coach Troy Lesesne. “We have a very good idea about the guys we’re going to target in certain positions and hopefully we can execute that in the coming weeks.”

INDEPENDENCE SCHEDULE: ADD GAMES TO YOUR CALENDAR

“You’re constantly being bombarded with these press releases from around the league,” said Lesesne. “Teams are signing this player and that player. But for us, it’s about getting the right player for the Charlotte Independence. We have a good idea who that is.”

A delicate challenge the Independence coaching staff must face is balancing 33 days of preparation before the season opener, with a long perspective of a regular season spanning eight months.

“Where you are week one is vastly different where you are in week twenty,” said Lesesne. “For us, it’s about the process of building towards the end of the season and make sure we’re in a position to be in the playoffs and compete for a championship.”

“That’s always tricky,” said Independence Head Coach Mike Jeffries of managing a short preseason with a long regular season. “We have to be careful in preseason, because guys have been off for a while. Not only getting fit, but maintaining health and being smart about injuries; it’s vital to how we want to manage our start. It’s important that guys play throughout the whole preseason, to be sharp.”

Head Coach Mike Jeffries says the short preseason may expedite some coaching elements such as implementing tactics, but he anticipates easing into week one.

“Pretty basic, introductory sort of week,” said Jeffries. “We’ll spend the first week of training working on our fitness and working on getting guys back into playing mode, a proper mentality, and the basic philosophical things of how we play.”

Martinez, Johnson Kickoff Preseason in Colorado

Back-to-back USL MVP Finalist, Enzo Martinez and 2017 USL Defender of the year candidate, Joel Johnson have trained with Charlotte Independence’s MLS affiliate Colorado Rapids since January 22nd. The trial period presents an opportunity for the pair to make the Rapid’s roster.

The question Independence fans now have is obvious. Will two of the most talented players in the USL leave the Independence for MLS? That’s still to be determined, but for Martinez, who says every player aspires to be at the highest level, it’s an irrelevant question.

“I don't like to focus on things I can't control,” said Martinez. “Early on in my career, I did. I focused on things I didn't have control of or things that actually did more damage, than what helped. Being older and more mature, that's something I've learned and I feel like I stick by it. Not just in soccer, but in every aspect of life.”

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But the issue remains; how does the Independence benefit from having players scooped up by the Rapids?

“Our ability to provide opportunities for players to advance their careers is one of the reasons players come to Charlotte,” said Independence Head Coach Mike Jeffries. ”Our relationship with Colorado allows the Rapids staff to get to know our players well and give them the opportunity to compete for a spot on the MLS roster in preseason.”

In recent history, the MLS-USL affiliation has been more than just a pipeline of loaned players. To begin 2017, the Rapids signed Cody Mizell to a short term contract before a breakout season with the Independence. A 2016 Charlotte-Colorado Combine participant, Callum Ross fielded interest from the Rapids and ultimately stayed under their close watch ahead of his fan-voted Rookie of the Year season.

Promotion to the Rapids roster or not, the on-field benefits are plenty.

“The opportunity to try and make the Rapids' roster is the most important factor for Enzo and Joel,” said Jeffries. “The fitness component is a plus; however, the ability to play and work with top players is a bigger positive factor.”

Martinez says regaining getting his fitness is primary, but the speed of play is an asset.

“In every preseason, I feel that's what takes a little bit longer to get,” said Martinez. “Fitness comes quicker, but that speed of play is the biggest advantage for me and Joel here.”

Coach Jeffries and his coaching staff have joined the Rapids in Casa Grande, Arizona for the first leg of training camp. Time well spent as the Independence coaches get to know the Rapids’ new coaching staff and potential Independence loanees.

“In our sport, as in many, the relationships you build as you work with different groups are fantastic,” said Jeffries. “If some of the players they currently work with end up coming to Charlotte, their transition will be easier.”

Independence fans, who may not be sold on their return on investment for potentially losing Martinez or Johnson, can possibly find solace in the relatable comments Martinez had for bigger things ahead.

“I don't focus on that. If things like that come, they come. If they don't, they don't. Every player welcomes that opportunity, but if you play for that reason you lose sight of what you have in front of you.”

Recent News: Independence Sign Trinidad & Tobago International

“I don’t like to focus on things I can’t control,” said Martinez. “Early on in my career, I did. I focused on things I didn’t have control of or things that actually did more damage, than what helped. Being older and more mature, that’s something I’ve learned and I feel like I stick by it. Not just in soccer, but in every aspect of life.”

Recent News: Independence Bring Home Goalkeeper of the Year

But the issue remains; how does the Independence benefit from having players scooped up by the Rapids?

Promotion to the Rapids roster or not, the on-field benefits are plenty.

“The opportunity to try and make the Rapids’ roster is the most important factor for Enzo and Joel,” said Jeffries. “The fitness component is a plus; however, the ability to play and work with top players is a bigger positive factor.”

Martinez says regaining getting his fitness is primary, but the speed of play is an asset.

“In every preseason, I feel that’s what takes a little bit longer to get,” said Martinez. “Fitness comes quicker, but that speed of play is the biggest advantage for me and Joel here.”

“I don’t focus on that. If things like that come, they come. If they don’t, they don’t. Every player welcomes that opportunity, but if you play for that reason you lose sight of what you have in front of you.”

Recent News: Independence Sign Trinidad & Tobago International

Independence Welcome Home USL Goalkeeper of the Year

Charlotte, N.C. — The Charlotte Independence added Charlotte, North Carolina native and 2015 USL Goalkeeper of the Year, Brandon Miller to the team on Wednesday, pending league and federation approval. Miller currently holds the USL records for most shutouts in a single season (13) and goals against average (0.54).

A Charlotte Country Day High School alumni and Charlotte Soccer Academy product, Miller embraces the opportunity to return to play for his professional, hometown team.

“Coming home to play in front of my friends, family, and people I grew up with is something that I always wanted to do,” said Miller. “It's something important to me and playing for my hometown is something I hold close to my heart. That's what I'm excited for the most.”

With the Harrisburg City Islanders, Miller nabbed USL Team of the Week Honors three times last season. He also won the fan vote for his Week 26 USL Save of the Week versus FC Cincinnati. Inadvertently, Miller experienced Charlotte Independence history with the grand opening of the Sportsplex at Matthews, on May 17th as the starting away keeper.

A Charlotte Country Day High School alumni and Charlotte Soccer Academy product, Miller embraces the opportunity to return to play for his professional, hometown team.

“Coming home to play in front of my friends, family, and people I grew up with is something that I always wanted to do,” said Miller. “It’s something important to me and playing for my hometown is something I hold close to my heart. That’s what I’m excited for the most.”

“I felt fortunate to be there,” said the 28-year-old, Miller. “Being a Charlotte native and being there the night they opened up the Sportsplex [at Matthews]. I had a lot of friends and family there hoping to see me do well, but also, to enjoy the environment that the club and the fans brought.”

Before his stints with Orange County Blues FC and Harrisburg City Islanders, Miller won a USL Cup with Rochester Rhinos in 2015. Independence Head Coach Mike Jeffries says Miller’s championship pedigree goes a long way in filling a key position for the club.

“Being able to add the leadership and experience of someone who has led his team to a USL Championship is a huge plus for us,” said Jeffries. “Brandon's quickness coming off his line suits our style of play. He is an excellent shot stopper with quick reflexes.”

“We’re excited about the addition of Brandon,” said Independence Goalkeeper Coach Joel Tyson. “He’s a talented and motivated individual that’s had some reputable success as a starting goalkeeper in this league. To get him back to his hometown club is a success and I personally look forward to working with him.”

Familiar as former Rochester Rhinos teammates and offseason workout partners, Miller has built a rapport with newly re-signed Independence center back Bilal Duckett. The pair aided in the fundraising sexual violence prevention through the Tackling Consent initiative last season, and plan to continue their work.

“I think it's a great cause,” said Miller. “If you look at the social environment today, it's definitely something that is important to teach young kids more about consent. It was something that I felt really passionate about.”

Miller becomes the eighth player under contract for the 2018 Charlotte Independence. He joins Trinidad & Tobago international midfielder Kevan George, who was added to the roster this week. The Independence will kickoff the 2018 season at the Sportsplex at Matthews on Saturday, March 17th versus Ottawa Fury FC. 2018 Season Memberships are available online and by calling 704-206-1515. For details on the full 2018 USL regular season schedule, please visit https://www.charlotteindependence.com.

“Being able to add the leadership and experience of someone who has led his team to a USL Championship is a huge plus for us,” said Jeffries. “Brandon’s quickness coming off his line suits our style of play. He is an excellent shot stopper with quick reflexes.”

“I think it’s a great cause,” said Miller. “If you look at the social environment today, it’s definitely something that is important to teach young kids more about consent. It was something that I felt really passionate about.”

Independence Return Team Captain

Charlotte, N.C. — On Tuesday, the Charlotte Independence announced team captain, Bilal Duckett returning for his fourth season with the club, pending league and federation approval. An institution of the Independence’s defense since the inaugural season, Duckett currently holds the franchise lead for USL minutes played (7,249) and games played (83).

“Bilal provides leadership and a positive influence within the team,” said Independence Head Coach Mike Jeffries. “Off the field, Bilal's passion for both the Independence and Charlotte have been vital in establishing the Independence as a valued member of the Charlotte sports community and the USL.”

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Duckett, a prolific leader on the field, prides himself being a pillar in the Charlotte community. Through fan pledges for individual and team stats, Duckett helped Tackling Consent raise $3,000 in the prevention of sexual violence last season.

Additionally, the 29-year-old has served as team captain and outspoken, vocal leader of a roster he referred to as a family. With imminent changes to the 2018 squad, Duckett relishes the challenge regain team chemistry.

“It certainly looks like there will be more turnover this season, opposed to last season,” said Duckett. “But it's important to realize each player who has put on a Charlotte training kit over the past three years has played a part in creating a culture. We will be bringing back enough players who have been around for the majority of the club's history to carry that culture.”

Heading into a new season, Duckett and a stout back line are focused on making the Independence an impassible defensive force en route to league awards.

“Reflecting on last season, I didn't put as much of an onus on being as hard to play against as I should have, defensively,” said Duckett. “It's a reminder for me to do the basic things really well, in addition to the high level things we do well.

“I feel like we haven't finished the job, yet,” said Duckett. “We're still looking for playoff victories, regular season titles, as well as USL Cup Championships. We have work to do.”

Including Duckett, the Independence roster now sits seven players under contract for the upcoming season with another player to be announced on Wednesday. Trinidad and Tobago international and veteran midfielder, Kevan George was added to the roster on Monday. The Independence will kickoff the 2018 season at the Sportsplex at Matthews on Saturday, March 17th versus Ottawa Fury FC. 2018 Season Memberships are available online and by calling 704-206-1515. For details on the full 2018 USL regular season schedule, please visit https://www.charlotteindependence.com.

“Bilal provides leadership and a positive influence within the team,” said Independence Head Coach Mike Jeffries. “Off the field, Bilal’s passion for both the Independence and Charlotte have been vital in establishing the Independence as a valued member of the Charlotte sports community and the USL.”

RECENT NEWS: TRINIDAD & TOBAGO INTERNATIONAL VETERAN SIGNED

“It certainly looks like there will be more turnover this season, opposed to last season,” said Duckett. “But it’s important to realize each player who has put on a Charlotte training kit over the past three years has played a part in creating a culture. We will be bringing back enough players who have been around for the majority of the club’s history to carry that culture.”

Heading into a new season, Duckett and a stout back line are focused on making the Independence an impassible defensive force en route to league awards.

“Reflecting on last season, I didn’t put as much of an onus on being as hard to play against as I should have, defensively,” said Duckett. “It’s a reminder for me to do the basic things really well, in addition to the high level things we do well.

“I feel like we haven’t finished the job, yet,” said Duckett. “We’re still looking for playoff victories, regular season titles, as well as USL Cup Championships. We have work to do.”

Sportsplex at Matthews Regulations for Home Preseason Game (2/25/18)

Martinez Earns MLS, Rapids Contract

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RECENT NEWS: SINGLE GAME TICKETS NOW ON SALE

World Cup, K League Veteran Joins Independence

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Independence Fortifies Midfield with Re-Signing

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Independence Announce Three Preseason Matches

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RECENT NEWS: INDEPENDENCE ADD 18-YEAR-OLD DUO

Independence Sign Rising Stars

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Independence Report to Training Camp

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Martinez, Johnson Kickoff Preseason in Colorado

Recent News: Independence Bring Home Goalkeeper of the Year

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Recent News: Independence Bring Home Goalkeeper of the Year

Recent News: Independence Sign Trinidad & Tobago International

Independence Welcome Home USL Goalkeeper of the Year

Independence Return Team Captain

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RECENT NEWS: SINGLE GAME TICKETS NOW ON SALE

RECENT NEWS: SINGLE GAME TICKETS NOW ON SALE

RECENT NEWS: INDEPENDENCE ANNOUNCE PRESEASON SCHEDULE

RECENT NEWS: INDEPENDENCE ANNOUNCE PRESEASON SCHEDULE

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RECENT NEWS: INDEPENDENCE ANNOUNCE PRESEASON SCHEDULE

RECENT NEWS: INDEPENDENCE ADD 18-YEAR-OLD DUO

RECENT NEWS: INDEPENDENCE ADD 18-YEAR-OLD DUO

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RECENT NEWS: INDEPENDENCE REPORT TO TRAINING CAMP

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Recent News: Independence Bring Home Goalkeeper of the Year

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Recent News: Independence Bring Home Goalkeeper of the Year

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