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Charlotte Independence Defender Shalom Dutey Returns for 2022 Season

Dutey to command the back line in his third year with the Jacks.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (February 17, 2022) – The Charlotte Independence announced today that they have re-signed defender Shalom Dutey for the 2022 season. Dutey enters his third season with the Jacks. He made his professional soccer debut on May 1, 2021 during the team’s season opener last year.

“Shalom is a physical, athletic presence at the back. He’s very strong and wins challenges in the air and on the ground,” explained Charlotte Independence Head Coach and General Manager, Mike Jeffries. “Over the last two years, Shalom has worked incredibly hard, and with a positive mentality he’s sharpened his craft. I look forward to him showing those efforts on the field this year.”

Dutey first signed with the Charlotte Independence in 2020. He played collegiate soccer at Liberty University from 2016-2019. Over the course of his four years, Dutey made 36 starts in 55 appearances for the Flames and scored two goals.

“I am excited to be back with the Independence this season,” said Dutey. “I am ready to make new memories with the new team, and build off the playoff run we had last year.”

While in college, Dutey also played in USL League Two with the Tri-Cities Otters and Charlotte Eagles where he earned All-Southern team honors. He recorded a combined 7 goals in 23 appearances.

“We’re ecstatic that we have been able to keep Shalom in the Independence family! This is a player that’s going to help us on the field and one who models our values in the community every day,” stated Charlotte Independence President and COO, Tim Schuldt. “We look forward to his contributions on and off the field this year!”

The Charlotte Independence are scheduled to kickoff their 2022 season on Friday, April 8 at 7:00 PM (ET). The Jacks will host Central Valley Fuego FC at American Legion Memorial Stadium. To view the full schedule and purchase your season tickets, please visit charlotteindependence.com/uslleagueoneschedule.

Charlotte Independence Re-Sign Forward Tresor Mbuyu for 2022 Season

Mbuyu looks for big break in his third year with the Jacks.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (February 16, 2022) – The Charlotte Independence announced today that forward Tresor Mbuyu has re-signed for the 2022 season. Mbuyu enters his third season with the Jacks. In 2021, he recorded 112 minutes in 11 appearances and had one assist.

“I am expecting a breakout season from Tresor this year,” explained Charlotte Independence Head Coach and General Manager, Mike Jeffries. “Tresor has developed his game the last two seasons and shown his ability to beat players 1 v. 1 and find opportunities in front of goal.”

Mbuyu first signed with the Independence in 2020. Previously, he played one season for Orlando City B (2019), where he made 19 appearances and scored one goal.

“I’m excited for the opportunity to stay in Charlotte this season,” stated Mbuyu. “I’m ready to get back on the pitch with the boys and bring home some wins for the Jacks.”

Mbuyu played college soccer for Liberty University from 2016-2018. He notched 33 goals and 17 assists in 40 appearances. In the Summer of 2018, the forward joined USL League Two side North Carolina FC U23 where he scored four goals in nine appearances.

“Tresor has incredible acceleration and speed. Our fans are going to see an exciting brand of soccer with Tresor on the field,” explained Charlotte Independence President and COO, Tim Schuldt. “We look forward to his success on the field and his tremendous work and dedication in the community that he’s always delivered. The Jacks got better today!”

The Charlotte Independence are scheduled to kickoff their 2022 season on Friday, April 8 at 7:00 PM (ET). The Jacks will host Central Valley Fuego FC at American Legion Memorial Stadium. To view the full schedule and purchase your season tickets, please visit charlotteindependence.com/uslleagueoneschedule.

Venezuelan Defender Héctor Acosta Signs with Charlotte Independence for 2022 Season

21 year old with significant experience in Venezuela’s First Division

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (February 15, 2022) – The Charlotte Independence announced today that they have signed Héctor Acosta, a 21 year old defender from Venezuela. He is the newest player to join the Jacks ahead of their USL League One debut. 

“Hector is an exciting signing for the Independence. At 21 years old, Hector has already played significant minutes in Venezuela’s First Division,” explained Charlotte Independence Head Coach and General Manager, Mike Jeffries. “As a young defender, Hector is comfortable and composed in possession; most importantly, his defensive qualities and instincts are strong. I look forward to seeing Hector continue his development in League One with the Independence.”

For the last year, Acosta competed with Universidad Central de Venezuela in Liga Futve, the top-flight professional fútbol league of Venezuela. The public university, located in Caracas, is the highest ranking institution in the country. As a center back, he made nine appearances, scored one goal and played 711 minutes. 

“I’m very happy to be part of the Charlotte Independence and it’s an honor to wear the colors of this institution,” explained Acosta. “I’m ready to set foot on the field, meet with my teammates and demonstrate my skills. I am eager to be able to contribute my potential and experience to the team’s defense. It is a new challenge for me, and I want to continue to grow and help the team work to win. Go Charlotte Independence!”

The previous year he competed with Gran Valencia FC where he made 14 appearances, scored one goal and played 1,220 minutes. 

Acosta’s professional soccer career began in 2019 with Llaneros de Guanare EF where he made 21 appearances and accumulated 1,678 minutes played.

“Mike always does a great job building our roster,” stated Charlotte Independence President and COO, Tim Schuldt. “He got us another gem with Hector! We look forward to watching this young man play exceptional defense and help us grow our brand in the community.”

The Charlotte Independence are scheduled to kickoff their 2022 season on Friday, April 8 at 7:00 PM (ET). The Jacks will host Central Valley Fuego FC at American Legion Memorial Stadium. To view the full schedule and purchase your season tickets, please visit charlotteindependence.com/uslleagueoneschedule.

Defender Clay Dimick Re-Signs with Charlotte Independence for 2022 Season

Independence veteran returns for his fourth year with the Jacks.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (February 14, 2022) – The Charlotte Independence announced today that defender Clay Dimick has re-signed for the 2022 season. Dimick returns for his fourth consecutive year with the Jacks. In 2021, he played in 20 games and recorded 1,308 minutes. Defensively, he made 25 clearances, 5 blocks and 17 interceptions. Offensively, he notched 2 assists.

“I am delighted to keep Clay with the Independence for the 2022 season,” explained Charlotte Independence Head Coach and General Manager, Mike Jeffries. “Clay is a fierce competitor with a work ethic second to none. Clay brings tenacity, a high soccer IQ, and a tremendous work rate every day. He will be an important piece of our back line in 2022. In addition to contributing on the field, Clay’s experience and personality will allow him to provide excellent mentorship for many of the younger players.”

Before joining the Charlotte Independence in 2019, Dimick was a standout on the back line for the USL League Two Charlotte Eagles. He registered 14 starts and one goal.

Dimick began his professional soccer career in 2016 with the West Virginia Alliance. In 2017, he competed for three different clubs: GPS Portland Phoenix, Westgate Sindjelic and Geelong.

“I am very happy to sign with the Independence for the 2022 season,” stated Dimick. “I’m excited to play for Coach Jeffries and in front of the supporters for another year. I’m eager to build on the success we saw last year as a club. Entering my fourth year with the team, I look forward to stepping into a leadership role and doing what I can to help us win.”

A two-sport athlete out of high school, Dimick played four seasons with the men’s soccer program at Belmont Abbey College where he led the Crusaders in goals scored for three consecutive seasons.

“We’re glad to welcome back Clay,” stated Charlotte Independence President and COO, Tim Schuldt. “He’s a terrific player on the field and embodies our core values as a club. We look forward to watching his leadership on the field and in the community in 2022.”

The Charlotte Independence are scheduled to kickoff their 2022 season on Friday, April 8 at 7:00 PM (ET). The Jacks will host Central Valley Fuego FC at American Legion Memorial Stadium. To view the full schedule and purchase your season tickets, please visit charlotteindependence.com/uslleagueoneschedule.

Charlotte Independence Soccer Club’s Robyn Horner Named Head Coach of USL W League Team

Horner to lead the Independence women during their inaugural season in the USL W League’s South Atlantic Division.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (February 9, 2022) – The Charlotte Independence and the Charlotte Independence Soccer Club today named Robyn Horner as the Head Coach of the club’s new women’s pre-professional soccer team. Horner will remain the Girls GK Coaching Director for the Charlotte Independence Soccer Club. She was previously the Head Women’s Soccer Coach at Pfeiffer University and competed at both the collegiate and professional levels throughout her career. Play for the USL W League’s South Atlantic Division kicks off this May.

“We’re absolutely delighted to announce Robyn Horner as our first Head Coach of the W league team,” explained Thomas Finlay, CEO of the Charlotte Independence Soccer Club. “We reviewed 150 resumes from all over the world, but it became very clear that the right person was here within our club. Robyn has been there as a player, and a coach, at this level. Her experience will be invaluable for our pre-professional players. Rooted in our club culture, Coach Robyn will provide the experience and soccer knowledge to help elevate our players to the next level. We simply can’t wait for the start of the season.”

Horner joined the Charlotte Independence Soccer Club in 2019 as the Director of Goalkeeping and Head Coach. In her first year, she coached a U19 girls team to an undefeated season and a State Cup Championship.

“I am so thrilled, and consider myself very fortunate, to be leading our club’s first-ever W-League team in their inaugural season, ” explained Charlotte Independence Women’s Head Coach, Robyn Horner. “I would like to express my gratitude to Thomas Finlay and the entire Charlotte Independence organization for offering me the opportunity to build the foundation of this team alongside the strong women of our club, keeping our core values at the center.” 

Before joining the Charlotte Independence Soccer Club, Horner coached at Pfeiffer University in Misenheimer, N.C. She was the Assistant Coach for two years, during which she helped the Falcons win a Conference Carolinas Championship in 2013. Horner was promoted as the Head Women’s Soccer Coach in 2015. She led the program for four years with an overall record of 39-26-3 which included two Conference Semifinal appearances in 2015 and 2016. 

Horner played for the semi-professional Charlotte Independence North – WPSL team during the Summer of 2021 and was named the All Conference Goalkeeper for the Carolinas Conference North Division. 

Previously, she competed with the Charlotte Lady Eagles and was named Team Captain from 2013-2015. She helped lead her team to two Southeast Conference Championships in 2012 and 2014, the same two years she earned Southeast Goalkeeper of the Year honors. 

Over the course of nine years as a professional soccer player, Horner played with a number of clubs including: New Jersey Wildcats (W-League – Semi-Professional), Philadelphia Independence (WPS), Sky Blue (WPS) and WNY Flash (NWSL – Now NC Courage Franchise). 

Horner played collegiate soccer at Rutgers University from 2003-2005. She still holds a place on the universities’ record list. She then transferred to Franklin & Marshall College where she competed from 2005-2008.

“We’re excited for the W League to start and excited about the fans and corporate partners’ response,” said Charlotte Independence President and COO, Tim Schuldt. “Robyn is the first of many signings that enable us to provide more opportunities for women on the field and off the field as we grow the game and our organization in the Carolinas.”

Horner is married to her husband Paul. Together, they have a son Ben (5), a daughter Charlotte (almost 2) and one baby girl on the way who is due in late March.

“I’m honored to be a part of the newest installment of the USL W League and their commitment to the advancement of the women’s game across the nation,” stated Horner. “Having been involved in the previous installment of the W League for seven years as a player, I know firsthand what it means to be fully invested in the growth of the women’s game, and couldn’t be more proud of the partnership our club has fostered with the USL in that endeavor.”

The Charlotte Independence women will open their inaugural season with a home match vs. Greenville Triumph SC on Sunday, May 15 at American Legion Memorial Stadium. Kickoff is scheduled for 3:00 PM. Purchase USL W League Season Tickets at charlotteindependence.com/uslw-season-tickets.

Charlotte Independence Announce 2022 USL W League Schedule

Women’s pre-professional team to play four games at American Legion Memorial Stadium including two double-headers with League One men’s team

*Match times are subject to change.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (February 3, 2022) – The Charlotte Independence announced today the 2022 schedule for the club’s new USL W League pre-professional women’s soccer team, the highest level of women’s competitive soccer in the region. The Independence women will play four home games at American Legion Memorial Stadium. Two of those matches will be played as double-headers with the professional men’s USL League One team. The remaining two home games will be played in Huntersville, N.C. at Community School of Davidson – SPARTAN ATHLETIC COMPLEX & PARK.

 The team’s inaugural season includes six home games and six away games, facing five South Atlantic Division opponents: Asheville City SC, Greenville Triumph SC, NC Courage, NC Fusion and Wake FC. The full schedule and start times can be found here.

 **May 15 – Charlotte Independence vs. Greenville Triumph SC (HOME)
**May 18 – Charlotte Independence vs. NC Fusion (HOME)
May 21 – Charlotte Independence at Wake FC (AWAY)
May 28 – Charlotte Independence at NC Courage (AWAY)

 June 11 – Charlotte Independence at Greenville Triumph SC (AWAY)
June 14 – Charlotte Independence vs. NC Courage (HOME)
*June 18 – Charlotte Independence vs. Asheville City SC (HOME)
June 21 – Charlotte Independence at Asheville City SC (AWAY)
*June 25 – Charlotte Independence vs. Wake FC (HOME)
June 30 – Charlotte Independence at NC Fusion (AWAY)

July 2 – Charlotte Independence vs. Greenville Triumph SC (HOME)
July 5 – Charlotte Independence at NC Courage (AWAY)

*American Legion Memorial Stadium stand-alone games.
**Double headers at American Legion Memorial Stadium.

 A Charlotte Independence USL W League season ticket package includes all 6 home games, plus two USL League One men’s professional games, and is available for purchase at charlotteindependence.com/uslw-season-tickets. USL W League games will also be live streamed for fans. More details coming soon.

 Keep up with the Charlotte Independence women’s team online at charlotteindependence.com/uslw and on social media through Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

USL W League Confirms Inaugural Season Membership, Divisional Alignments

43 teams will compete in the League’s inaugural season

Charlotte Independence – USL W League Website

TAMPA, Fla. – The United Soccer League (USL) today confirmed 43 clubs set to compete in the W League’s inaugural 2022 season. The elite pre-professional league will begin play this May with seven divisions comprised of teams from 20 different states.

The USL launched the W League on June 8, 2021 with eight initial members and has since welcomed 35 additional clubs. The W League’s founding membership includes four clubs from the USL Championship, five clubs from USL League One, 24 clubs from USL League Two, and 10 new USL expansion markets.

“When we set out to build the W League, we made it a focus to involve key stakeholders who have been driving the women’s game forward both inside and outside the USL. That sense of community laid the foundation that these clubs are building upon,” said Joel Nash, Vice President of Youth and Pre-Professional. “There are ample stories that have already been told to this point, but players showcasing their talent to thousands of fans across the country and world will be the story we can all celebrate in 2022.”

The clubs will be arranged into seven divisions for the 2022 season – the Deep South, Great Lakes, Heartland, Metropolitan, Mid-Atlantic, South Atlantic, and Southeast. Full membership for six of the divisions is outlined below, while the league is continuing to finalize the Mid-Atlantic. For more information on each team, visit uslwleague.com/league-teams.

“The past year has been an incredible period of growth for the women’s game and the USL W League, and we could not be more appreciative of the investment and dedication our clubs have shown to providing more opportunities for players, fans, and executives in women’s soccer,” said Betsy Haugh, USL Director of Women’s Soccer Operations. “We are thrilled to be able to celebrate our inaugural season in more than 40 communities around the country and look forward to kicking off in May.”

The USL W League will release its inaugural season schedule on Thursday, February 3. For more information about the USL W League, visit uslwleague.com and follow the W League on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.

2022 USL W League Clubs

Deep South

Chattanooga Red Wolves SC (Chattanooga, Tenn.)
Tennessee Soccer Club (Franklin, Tenn.)
Peachtree City MOBA (Peachtree, Ga,)
South Carolina United Bantams (Columbia, S.C.)
South Georgia Tormenta FC (Statesboro, Ga.)
Southern Soccer Academy (Marietta, Ga.)

Great Lakes

AFC Ann Arbor (Ann Arbor, Mich.)
Detroit City FC (Detroit, Mich.)
Flint City AFC (Flint, Mich.)
Indy Eleven (Indianapolis, Ind.)
Kalamazoo FC (Kalamazoo, Mich.)
Kings Hammer FC (Cincinnati, Ohio)
Midwest United FC (Grand Rapids, Mich.)
Racing Louisville FC (Louisville, Ky.)

Heartland

Chicago City SC (Chicago, Ill.)
Chicago Dutch Lions FC (Chicago, Ill.)
Green Bay Glory (Green Bay, Wis.)
Minnesota Aurora FC (Minneapolis, Minn.)
Kaw Valley FC (Lawrence, Kan.)
St. Louis Lions (St. Louis, Mo.)

Metropolitan

AC Connecticut (Newtown, Conn.)
Cedar Stars (Teaneck, N.J.)
FA Euro New York (Brooklyn, N.Y.)
Long Island Rough Riders (Long Island, N.Y.)
Manhattan SC (Manhattan, N.Y.)
Morris Elite SC (Morris County, N.J.)
Queensboro FC (Queens, N.Y.)
Westchester Flames (Westchester, N.Y.)

Mid-Atlantic* (additional club(s) to be announced)

Christos FC (Baltimore, Md.)
Eagle FC (Mechanicsburg, Pa.)
Northern Virginia FC (Leesburg, Va.)
Patuxent Football Athletics (Patuxent, Md.)

South Atlantic

Asheville City SC (Asheville, N.C.)
Charlotte Independence (Charlotte, N.C.)
Greenville Triumph SC (Greenville, S.C.)
North Carolina Courage U23s (Cary, N.C.)
North Carolina Fusion (Greensboro, N.C.)
Wake FC (Holly Springs, N.C.)

Southeast

Caledonia SC (Lakeland, Fla.)
Florida Elite Soccer Academy (Jacksonville, Fla.)
Miami AC (Miami, Fla.)
FC Miami City (Miami, Fla.)
Tampa Bay United (Tampa, Fla.)

Note: Due to stadium construction timelines, the USL W League club in Spokane, Wash. will begin play in 2024.

Charlotte Independence Announce Schedule Change with Richmond Kickers

Jacks to open the season with four straight home games

Jacks to open the season with four straight home games

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (January 26, 2022) – The Charlotte Independence announced today a schedule change which flips the location of the club’s first two match-ups against regional rival, Richmond Kickers. 

The match that was originally scheduled to be played at Richmond on Saturday, April 23 will now be played at American Legion Memorial Stadium on Friday, April 22. The Charlotte Independence home match originally scheduled for Saturday, June 11 will now be played away at Richmond. Match times remain TBD.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE UPDATED SCHEDULE

Season tickets are still available for purchase at https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/charlotteindependence/2022seasontickets.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (January 26, 2022) – The Charlotte Independence announced today a schedule change which flips the location of the club’s first two match-ups against regional rival, Richmond Kickers. 

The match that was originally scheduled to be played at Richmond on Saturday, April 23 will now be played at American Legion Memorial Stadium on Friday, April 22. The Charlotte Independence home match originally scheduled for Saturday, June 11 will now be played away at Richmond. Match times remain TBD.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE UPDATED SCHEDULE

Season tickets are still available for purchase at https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/charlotteindependence/2022seasontickets.

Charlotte Independence 2022 Schedule Set for USL League One

Jacks to host 15 home matches at American Legion Memorial Stadium.

Jacks to host 15 home matches at American Legion Memorial Stadium.

*Kickoff times may be subject to change.

*Kickoff times may be subject to change.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (December 22, 2021) – The Charlotte Independence 2022 regular season schedule is set as the club prepares for its USL League One debut. The Jacks will face a fleet of 11 new opponents and introduce a handful of geographic rivalries with North Carolina FC, Greenville Triumph SC and Richmond Kickers. The top six teams in the final regular season standings will then advance to the 2022 USL League One Playoffs.

FULL 2022 CHARLOTTE INDEPENDENCE SCHEDULE

The Independence will open the season in April hosting two expansion teams, Central Valley Fuego FC and NC Hailstorm FC, as well as the 2021 USL League One Champions, Union Omaha.

The 2022 regular season will conclude at American Legion Memorial Stadium on Saturday, October 15 with an in-state battle vs. North Carolina FC. 

2022 Season Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/charlotteindependence. The package features new Jack’s Season Ticket Holder Rewards which includes big savings, elevated experiences and VIP access throughout the season.

All Charlotte Independence matches will be streamed live on ESPN+. 

Keep up with the Jacks online at https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/charlotteindependence and on social media through Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. 


ABOUT CHARLOTTE INDEPENDENCE:

The Charlotte Independence professional soccer team joined the United Soccer League (USL) Championship as an expansion team in September 2014. An ownership group led by Jim McPhilliamy, the President & Managing Partner of Major League Lacrosse’s Charlotte Hounds, acquired the USL franchise rights from the Charlotte Eagles. McPhilliamy and his investment group founded Queen City Sports Club with the goal of making Charlotte a better place to live through annual increases in both the quality and quantity of events that are provided for the community.

In the fall of 2018, Queen City Sports Club and the Charlotte Independence signed a 10-year lease to move to American Legion Memorial Stadium following a revitalization of the historic landmark set for the spring of 2021. The Independence is focused on building the profile of the club through culture, community and performance as the team moves to American Legion Memorial Stadium. For details on 2022 Season Memberships, visit https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/charlotteindependence or call 704-206-1515.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (December 22, 2021) – The Charlotte Independence 2022 regular season schedule is set as the club prepares for its USL League One debut. The Jacks will face a fleet of 11 new opponents and introduce a handful of geographic rivalries with North Carolina FC, Greenville Triumph SC and Richmond Kickers. The top six teams in the final regular season standings will then advance to the 2022 USL League One Playoffs.

FULL 2022 CHARLOTTE INDEPENDENCE SCHEDULE

The Independence will open the season in April hosting two expansion teams, Central Valley Fuego FC and NC Hailstorm FC, as well as the 2021 USL League One Champions, Union Omaha.

The 2022 regular season will conclude at American Legion Memorial Stadium on Saturday, October 15 with an in-state battle vs. North Carolina FC. 

2022 Season Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/charlotteindependence. The package features new Jack’s Season Ticket Holder Rewards which includes big savings, elevated experiences and VIP access throughout the season.

All Charlotte Independence matches will be streamed live on ESPN+. 

Keep up with the Jacks online at https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/charlotteindependence and on social media through Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. 


ABOUT CHARLOTTE INDEPENDENCE:

The Charlotte Independence professional soccer team joined the United Soccer League (USL) Championship as an expansion team in September 2014. An ownership group led by Jim McPhilliamy, the President & Managing Partner of Major League Lacrosse’s Charlotte Hounds, acquired the USL franchise rights from the Charlotte Eagles. McPhilliamy and his investment group founded Queen City Sports Club with the goal of making Charlotte a better place to live through annual increases in both the quality and quantity of events that are provided for the community.

In the fall of 2018, Queen City Sports Club and the Charlotte Independence signed a 10-year lease to move to American Legion Memorial Stadium following a revitalization of the historic landmark set for the spring of 2021. The Independence is focused on building the profile of the club through culture, community and performance as the team moves to American Legion Memorial Stadium. For details on 2022 Season Memberships, visit https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/charlotteindependence or call 704-206-1515.

Charlotte Independence Announces Strategic Partnership with Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina

Blue Cross NC is named the official health insurance partner of the Charlotte Independence and the Charlotte Independence Soccer Club

Blue Cross NC is named the official health insurance partner of the Charlotte Independence and the Charlotte Independence Soccer Club

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (January 11, 2022) – The Charlotte Independence and the Charlotte Independence Soccer Club (CISC) announced today a multi-year partnership with Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina (Blue Cross NC), a not-for-profit North Carolina company focused on making health care better, simpler and more affordable for the communities in which they serve. Blue Cross NC is now the official health insurance partner of the Charlotte Independence and the affiliated youth academy, the Charlotte Independence Soccer Club.

“Blue Cross NC has been a stalwart supporter of our community for decades,” stated Charlotte Independence President & COO, Tim Schuldt. “Their investment will help our organization continue to make Charlotte a better place to live through sports. We are humbled and thankful that the leading healthcare insurance provider in North Carolina has chosen to partner with us.”

Blue Cross NC will become a kit sponsor of all competitive youth club teams and the professional team shorts starting in 2022. Their logo will be prominently placed on the uniform of thousands of members registered with the CISC, which includes playing levels for boys and girls ranging from Youth Academy, Select, Futures, ECNL, USL (United Soccer League) Academy, USL League Two, USL Women’s W-League and the USL League One first team.

Another cornerstone feature in the partnership between Blue Cross NC, the Charlotte Independence Professional Team and the Youth Academy includes the creation of a system-wide character and leadership awards platform that highlights players and their accomplishments, on and off the field. Awards will go to members and first team players that embody the club’s key values of character, commitment, community, competition and communication. 

“The partnership with Blue Cross NC goes well beyond a traditional sponsorship,” explained Thomas Finlay, Chief Executive Officer of the Charlotte Independence Soccer Club. “We are thrilled to be aligned with such a great organization that agrees ‘Culture Counts’. We look forward to awarding our first, and future years’, winners of the Independence Soccer Blue Cross NC Character and Leadership Awards.”

Blue Cross NC is also set to become a presenting sponsor of the One Club One Love Community Clinics and will provide free jerseys for participating children. The pro team and youth club host approximately 12-24 soccer clinics throughout the year working with a variety of nonprofit organizations in the Charlotte community.

The final cornerstone of the partnership includes a visual and promotional presence at all first team games including signage elements and two themed game nights all to be executed at the USL’s newest, and spectacular Independence home field, American Legion Memorial Stadium.

"Our partnership with Charlotte Independence focuses on a shared commitment to cultivate stronger, healthier communities,” said Reagan Greene, Vice President of Marketing and Community Engagement at Blue Cross NC. “We look forward to working together to provide active and inclusive opportunities for North Carolinians across the state.”

To learn more about our community partnerships, please visit our website: https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/charlotteindependence/sponsors. 


 

ABOUT CHARLOTTE INDEPENDENCE:

The Charlotte Independence professional soccer team joined the United Soccer League (USL) Championship as an expansion team in September 2014. An ownership group led by Jim McPhilliamy, the President & Managing Partner of Major League Lacrosse’s Charlotte Hounds, acquired the USL franchise rights from the Charlotte Eagles. McPhilliamy and his investment group founded Queen City Sports Club with the goal of making Charlotte a better place to live through annual increases in both the quality and quantity of events that are provided for the community.

In the fall of 2018, Queen City Sports Club and the Charlotte Independence signed a 10-year lease to move to American Legion Memorial Stadium following a revitalization of the historic landmark set for the spring of 2021. The Independence is focused on building the profile of the club through culture, community and performance as the team moves to American Legion Memorial Stadium. For details on 2022 Season Memberships, visit https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/charlotteindependence or call 704-206-1515.

Social Media: Facebook, Instagram and Twitter

 

ABOUT CHARLOTTE INDEPENDENCE SOCCER CLUB:

In April 2019, the Charlotte Independence announced a historic formation of the Charlotte Independence Soccer Club (Independence SC). Independence Soccer Club is one of the top-10 largest, youth-to-professional clubs in the United States with a player network of close to 12,000 members, formed from existing youth soccer clubs of Carolina Rapids Soccer Club, Discoveries Soccer Club, and Lake Norman Soccer Club. Together, Independence Soccer Club is positioned to build a better club in serving the surrounding Charlotte-area soccer communities.

Independence Soccer Club is a comprehensive soccer club with playing levels for boys and girls ranging from recreation levels, ECNL, USL (United Soccer League) Academy, USL W League, USL League Two, and USL League One. The creation of Independence Soccer from Carolina Rapids Soccer Club, Discoveries Soccer Club, and Lake Norman Soccer Club allows for pooled resources from all clubs, which effectively elevates player experiences and club programming, increases in coaches development opportunities, and strengthens partnerships with local municipalities and sponsors. The affiliation with the Charlotte Independence professional soccer team provides players a clear pathway to the highest level of professional soccer. The Charlotte Independence currently plays in the United Soccer League Championship at the Sportsplex at Matthews and is focused on building the profile of the club through culture, community and performance as the team moves to a revitalized 10,000-seat American Legion Memorial Stadium in the spring of 2021.

The creation of Independence Soccer Club has allowed for pooled resources from all legacy clubs, which has effectively elevated player experiences, expanded club programming, increased coaching development opportunities, and strengthened partnerships with local municipalities and sponsors. It has also enhanced marketing efforts, increased sponsorship opportunities, and facilitated future infrastructure development in every single community associated with the club.

Social Media: Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook 

 

ABOUT BLUE CROSS AND BLUE SHIELD OF NORTH CAROLINA:

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina (Blue Cross NC) is committed to making health care better, simpler and more affordable. We have been driving better health in North Carolina since 1933, working to tackle our communities’ greatest health challenges. Blue Cross NC serves its customers and communities of more than 4.2 million members, including approximately 1.1 million on behalf of other Blue Plans. Blue Cross NC is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. Visit Blue Cross NC online at bluecrossnc.com. All other marks are the property of their respective owners.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (January 11, 2022) – The Charlotte Independence and the Charlotte Independence Soccer Club (CISC) announced today a multi-year partnership with Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina (Blue Cross NC), a not-for-profit North Carolina company focused on making health care better, simpler and more affordable for the communities in which they serve. Blue Cross NC is now the official health insurance partner of the Charlotte Independence and the affiliated youth academy, the Charlotte Independence Soccer Club.

“Blue Cross NC has been a stalwart supporter of our community for decades,” stated Charlotte Independence President & COO, Tim Schuldt. “Their investment will help our organization continue to make Charlotte a better place to live through sports. We are humbled and thankful that the leading healthcare insurance provider in North Carolina has chosen to partner with us.”

Blue Cross NC will become a kit sponsor of all competitive youth club teams and the professional team shorts starting in 2022. Their logo will be prominently placed on the uniform of thousands of members registered with the CISC, which includes playing levels for boys and girls ranging from Youth Academy, Select, Futures, ECNL, USL (United Soccer League) Academy, USL League Two, USL Women’s W-League and the USL League One first team.

Another cornerstone feature in the partnership between Blue Cross NC, the Charlotte Independence Professional Team and the Youth Academy includes the creation of a system-wide character and leadership awards platform that highlights players and their accomplishments, on and off the field. Awards will go to members and first team players that embody the club’s key values of character, commitment, community, competition and communication. 

“The partnership with Blue Cross NC goes well beyond a traditional sponsorship,” explained Thomas Finlay, Chief Executive Officer of the Charlotte Independence Soccer Club. “We are thrilled to be aligned with such a great organization that agrees ‘Culture Counts’. We look forward to awarding our first, and future years’, winners of the Independence Soccer Blue Cross NC Character and Leadership Awards.”

Blue Cross NC is also set to become a presenting sponsor of the One Club One Love Community Clinics and will provide free jerseys for participating children. The pro team and youth club host approximately 12-24 soccer clinics throughout the year working with a variety of nonprofit organizations in the Charlotte community.

The final cornerstone of the partnership includes a visual and promotional presence at all first team games including signage elements and two themed game nights all to be executed at the USL’s newest, and spectacular Independence home field, American Legion Memorial Stadium.

“Our partnership with Charlotte Independence focuses on a shared commitment to cultivate stronger, healthier communities,” said Reagan Greene, Vice President of Marketing and Community Engagement at Blue Cross NC. “We look forward to working together to provide active and inclusive opportunities for North Carolinians across the state.”

To learn more about our community partnerships, please visit our website: https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/charlotteindependence/sponsors. 


 

ABOUT CHARLOTTE INDEPENDENCE:

The Charlotte Independence professional soccer team joined the United Soccer League (USL) Championship as an expansion team in September 2014. An ownership group led by Jim McPhilliamy, the President & Managing Partner of Major League Lacrosse’s Charlotte Hounds, acquired the USL franchise rights from the Charlotte Eagles. McPhilliamy and his investment group founded Queen City Sports Club with the goal of making Charlotte a better place to live through annual increases in both the quality and quantity of events that are provided for the community.

In the fall of 2018, Queen City Sports Club and the Charlotte Independence signed a 10-year lease to move to American Legion Memorial Stadium following a revitalization of the historic landmark set for the spring of 2021. The Independence is focused on building the profile of the club through culture, community and performance as the team moves to American Legion Memorial Stadium. For details on 2022 Season Memberships, visit https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/charlotteindependence or call 704-206-1515.

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ABOUT CHARLOTTE INDEPENDENCE SOCCER CLUB:

In April 2019, the Charlotte Independence announced a historic formation of the Charlotte Independence Soccer Club (Independence SC). Independence Soccer Club is one of the top-10 largest, youth-to-professional clubs in the United States with a player network of close to 12,000 members, formed from existing youth soccer clubs of Carolina Rapids Soccer Club, Discoveries Soccer Club, and Lake Norman Soccer Club. Together, Independence Soccer Club is positioned to build a better club in serving the surrounding Charlotte-area soccer communities.

Independence Soccer Club is a comprehensive soccer club with playing levels for boys and girls ranging from recreation levels, ECNL, USL (United Soccer League) Academy, USL W League, USL League Two, and USL League One. The creation of Independence Soccer from Carolina Rapids Soccer Club, Discoveries Soccer Club, and Lake Norman Soccer Club allows for pooled resources from all clubs, which effectively elevates player experiences and club programming, increases in coaches development opportunities, and strengthens partnerships with local municipalities and sponsors. The affiliation with the Charlotte Independence professional soccer team provides players a clear pathway to the highest level of professional soccer. The Charlotte Independence currently plays in the United Soccer League Championship at the Sportsplex at Matthews and is focused on building the profile of the club through culture, community and performance as the team moves to a revitalized 10,000-seat American Legion Memorial Stadium in the spring of 2021.

The creation of Independence Soccer Club has allowed for pooled resources from all legacy clubs, which has effectively elevated player experiences, expanded club programming, increased coaching development opportunities, and strengthened partnerships with local municipalities and sponsors. It has also enhanced marketing efforts, increased sponsorship opportunities, and facilitated future infrastructure development in every single community associated with the club.

Social Media: Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook 

 

ABOUT BLUE CROSS AND BLUE SHIELD OF NORTH CAROLINA:

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina (Blue Cross NC) is committed to making health care better, simpler and more affordable. We have been driving better health in North Carolina since 1933, working to tackle our communities’ greatest health challenges. Blue Cross NC serves its customers and communities of more than 4.2 million members, including approximately 1.1 million on behalf of other Blue Plans. Blue Cross NC is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. Visit Blue Cross NC online at bluecrossnc.com. All other marks are the property of their respective owners.

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