Midfielder joined the Jacks midseason in 2023
CHARLOTTE, N.C. (March 7, 2024) – The Charlotte Independence announced today that midfielder Nathan Gray is returning for the 2024 season. The 16-year-old joined the Independence midseason last year as the youngest professional signing in club history.
“After a strong developmental year, Nathan rejoins us for the 2024 campaign,” Head Coach Mike Jeffries explained. “We believe Nathan has the tools and athleticism to develop into a top central midfield player; though he did not see game action in 2023, we expect him to continue his strong developmental curve this year and to contribute on the field in 2024.”
Gray originally came to the Independence following stints with the Atlanta United U16, U17, and U19 teams. The Grayson, Georgia, native scored nine goals and notched 14 assists in 2023 for Atlanta United Academy sides. Gray helped lead the U16 squad to the 2023 MLS NEXT Cup Playoffs with a first-place finish in group play during the MLS NEXT Flex Tournament.
“I’m super excited to be back with the Independence this year,” Gray shared. “I’m looking forward to an amazing season and helping the team win the championship this year.”
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 in the Supporters Section. 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 celebrating a decade of competitive soccer in Charlotte, North Carolina, in 2024. The club, founded in 2014, currently competes in USL League One and reached its first league final in club history at the end of the 2023 season. The Independence plays all home games at the historic 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.
