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Clay Dimick Interview | 'This year can be a championship year for Charlotte'

February 4, 2021 (CHARLOTTE, N.C.) — Charlotte Independence announced this week that defender Clay Dimick has signed a new contract and will be returning to the club for the 2021 season, pending league and federation approval.

At 26, Dimick is ready to take the next step in his career and is confident that staying with the Independence will provide the opportunity to do so. 

After signing a new contract, Dimick sat down with https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/charlotteindependence for an exclusive interview to discuss his return.

Read our exclusive chat with Dimick below…

February 4, 2021 (CHARLOTTE, N.C.) — Charlotte Independence announced this week that defender Clay Dimick has signed a new contract and will be returning to the club for the 2021 season, pending league and federation approval.

At 26, Dimick is ready to take the next step in his career and is confident that staying with the Independence will provide the opportunity to do so. 

After signing a new contract, Dimick sat down with https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/charlotteindependence for an exclusive interview to discuss his return.

Read our exclusive chat with Dimick below…

Clay, firstly, welcome back to Charlotte Independence. Can you describe how you’re feeling today?

Obviously, I'm very excited to be back. We had a good year last season and I feel like we have a lot of potential to go even further and hopefully win a championship. I was pumped to get the deal done and stay in Charlotte which is a city that feels like home to me.

Why is this the right move for you now at this stage of your career for your development?

A big part of it is playing for a coaching staff that has seen me develop over the past couple of years into a key part of the squad. Having that kind of coaching staff and continuing to work with them has allowed me to prove that I can be a key member of the team and help the team win. Having a coaching staff and team that trusts in you goes a long way. 

Do you feel ready to compete and fight for a consistent place in the starting lineup?

For sure. I see myself coming in and competing, hopefully being a starter, and helping the team in any way that I can. 

Describe your feeling knowing that you will be playing in the club's first season at the brand new American Legion Memorial Stadium…

That's the dream. To be able to play in the city and hopefully have more fans come out to the games because it is more convenient uptown is just going to be an awesome experience and atmosphere. As a player, you couldn't really ask for more than that, to play in the heart of the city with an incredible atmosphere. It's definitely the dream for a player in the city. 

You were just married. Just re-signed with the Independence. Not a bad start to the year…

Absolutely. Definitely a good start to the new year. A lot of good things happening that I am super thankful for. 

You’re sticking with the number 17. Was there any particular significance behind that?

Honestly, I was just handed it in 2019 during my rookie year and now that my friends, family, and the fans know me as number 17 I'm just going to stick with it. I like it.

You spoke earlier about working with the coaching staff, just how much are you looking forward to working with Mike Jeffries again?

I'm really looking forward to it. I've gotten comfortable with them in a way that I feel like they know how to get the most out of me as a player. They know how I need to develop and what I need to do to continue to push on to help the club and continue my career. With a coaching staff like that, I am really excited. 

For the supporters reading this, what can Independence fans expect from you next season?

They can expect the same mentality from me that they have seen in the past two years. On the field, I am going to do whatever I can to win and help the team. Hopefully, they will see a lot of the improvements that I have been working on in the offseason. They can always count on me to give my all and do whatever I can to help us win games and win a championship. 

Any specific message to the supporters?

I can't wait to see everyone in the stands. I hope everyone is staying healthy. This year can be a championship year for Charlotte. 

Clay, firstly, welcome back to Charlotte Independence. Can you describe how you’re feeling today?

Obviously, I’m very excited to be back. We had a good year last season and I feel like we have a lot of potential to go even further and hopefully win a championship. I was pumped to get the deal done and stay in Charlotte which is a city that feels like home to me.

Why is this the right move for you now at this stage of your career for your development?

A big part of it is playing for a coaching staff that has seen me develop over the past couple of years into a key part of the squad. Having that kind of coaching staff and continuing to work with them has allowed me to prove that I can be a key member of the team and help the team win. Having a coaching staff and team that trusts in you goes a long way. 

Do you feel ready to compete and fight for a consistent place in the starting lineup?

For sure. I see myself coming in and competing, hopefully being a starter, and helping the team in any way that I can. 

Describe your feeling knowing that you will be playing in the club’s first season at the brand new American Legion Memorial Stadium…

That’s the dream. To be able to play in the city and hopefully have more fans come out to the games because it is more convenient uptown is just going to be an awesome experience and atmosphere. As a player, you couldn’t really ask for more than that, to play in the heart of the city with an incredible atmosphere. It’s definitely the dream for a player in the city. 

You were just married. Just re-signed with the Independence. Not a bad start to the year…

Absolutely. Definitely a good start to the new year. A lot of good things happening that I am super thankful for. 

You’re sticking with the number 17. Was there any particular significance behind that?

Honestly, I was just handed it in 2019 during my rookie year and now that my friends, family, and the fans know me as number 17 I’m just going to stick with it. I like it.

You spoke earlier about working with the coaching staff, just how much are you looking forward to working with Mike Jeffries again?

I’m really looking forward to it. I’ve gotten comfortable with them in a way that I feel like they know how to get the most out of me as a player. They know how I need to develop and what I need to do to continue to push on to help the club and continue my career. With a coaching staff like that, I am really excited. 

For the supporters reading this, what can Independence fans expect from you next season?

They can expect the same mentality from me that they have seen in the past two years. On the field, I am going to do whatever I can to win and help the team. Hopefully, they will see a lot of the improvements that I have been working on in the offseason. They can always count on me to give my all and do whatever I can to help us win games and win a championship. 

Any specific message to the supporters?

I can’t wait to see everyone in the stands. I hope everyone is staying healthy. This year can be a championship year for Charlotte. 

ABOUT THE 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 2021 Season Memberships, visit https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/charlotteindependence or call 704-206-1515.

Social: Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook

ABOUT THE 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 2021 Season Memberships, visit https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/charlotteindependence or call 704-206-1515.

Social: Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook

Defender Clay Dimick Returning To Independence For Third Straight Season

February 2, 2021 (CHARLOTTE, N.C.) — Charlotte Independence announced today that defender Clay Dimick has signed a new contract and will be returning to the club for the 2021 season, pending league and federation approval.

Dimick, 26, has appeared in 20 career matches with the Independence across all competitions, starting 11 times and playing 1,190 minutes. In 2020, the defender saw action in 13 USL Championship regular-season matches, seven of which came as starts, and helped the Independence host its first home playoff match in club history.

“I’m so excited to be back and stay in Charlotte which is a city that now feels like home to me,” said Dimick. “Playing for a coaching staff that has seen me develop over the past two seasons and believes in me goes a long way. I just want to do whatever it takes to help the club win games and a championship.”

Following an impressive three-month trial, Dimick signed with the Independence on June 20, 2019 and would go on to make his professional debut for the Jacks on September 7, 2019, appearing as an 83rd-minute substitute against the Tampa Bay Rowdies.

“We are very excited to have Clay back in the squad for another year,” said Independence Head Coach Mike Jeffries. “His versatility allows us to play in a couple of different systems, has a great work rate, and has made tremendous improvements since he got into our environment. He just has a winning mentality that makes himself better and the team better.”

A two-sport athlete out of high school, Dimick played four seasons at Belmont Abbey College where he led the Crusaders in goals scored for three consecutive seasons. Upon graduating from Belmont Abbey, Dimick moved to Australia to appear for both Westgate Sindjelic and Geelong in 2017.

Prior to joining the Independence, Dimick was a standout for USL League 2 sides Charlotte Eagles and West Virginia Alliance FC. In 2018, the Atlanta, Ga. native registered one goal in 14 games started for the Eagles.

“It’s a dream to be able to play next season at American Legion Memorial Stadium,” added Dimick. “To be able to play in front of an incredible atmosphere in the heart of the city is definitely something I am looking forward to. As a player, you can’t really ask for much more than that.”

Dimick joins Jake Areman, Junior Etou, Enzo Martinez, Brandon Miller, and Valentin Sabella (currently loaned to Cancun FC) on the list of players confirmed for the 2021 season, as the club continues to negotiate with additional players.

February 2, 2021 (CHARLOTTE, N.C.) — Charlotte Independence announced today that defender Clay Dimick has signed a new contract and will be returning to the club for the 2021 season, pending league and federation approval.

Dimick, 26, has appeared in 20 career matches with the Independence across all competitions, starting 11 times and playing 1,190 minutes. In 2020, the defender saw action in 13 USL Championship regular-season matches, seven of which came as starts, and helped the Independence host its first home playoff match in club history.

“I’m so excited to be back and stay in Charlotte which is a city that now feels like home to me,” said Dimick. “Playing for a coaching staff that has seen me develop over the past two seasons and believes in me goes a long way. I just want to do whatever it takes to help the club win games and a championship.”

Following an impressive three-month trial, Dimick signed with the Independence on June 20, 2019 and would go on to make his professional debut for the Jacks on September 7, 2019, appearing as an 83rd-minute substitute against the Tampa Bay Rowdies.

“We are very excited to have Clay back in the squad for another year,” said Independence Head Coach Mike Jeffries. “His versatility allows us to play in a couple of different systems, has a great work rate, and has made tremendous improvements since he got into our environment. He just has a winning mentality that makes himself better and the team better.”

A two-sport athlete out of high school, Dimick played four seasons at Belmont Abbey College where he led the Crusaders in goals scored for three consecutive seasons. Upon graduating from Belmont Abbey, Dimick moved to Australia to appear for both Westgate Sindjelic and Geelong in 2017.

Prior to joining the Independence, Dimick was a standout for USL League 2 sides Charlotte Eagles and West Virginia Alliance FC. In 2018, the Atlanta, Ga. native registered one goal in 14 games started for the Eagles.

“It’s a dream to be able to play next season at American Legion Memorial Stadium,” added Dimick. “To be able to play in front of an incredible atmosphere in the heart of the city is definitely something I am looking forward to. As a player, you can’t really ask for much more than that.”

Dimick joins Jake Areman, Junior Etou, Enzo Martinez, Brandon Miller, and Valentin Sabella (currently loaned to Cancun FC) on the list of players confirmed for the 2021 season, as the club continues to negotiate with additional players.

CURRENT 2021 CHARLOTTE INDEPENDENCE ROSTER

Goalkeeper – Brandon Miller

Defender – Clay Dimick

Midfielder – Jake Areman, Junior Etou, Enzo Martinez, Valentin Sabella

Forward –

CURRENT 2021 CHARLOTTE INDEPENDENCE ROSTER

Goalkeeper – Brandon Miller

Defender – Clay Dimick

Midfielder – Jake Areman, Junior Etou, Enzo Martinez, Valentin Sabella

Forward –

Season deposits for Charlotte Independence’s inaugural season at the brand new American Legion Memorial Stadium are available here.

Season deposits for Charlotte Independence’s inaugural season at the brand new American Legion Memorial Stadium are available here.

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 2021 Season Memberships, visit https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/charlotteindependence or call 704-206-1515.

Social: Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook

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 2021 Season Memberships, visit https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/charlotteindependence or call 704-206-1515.

Social: Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook

Take A Virtual Tour Inside The Brand New American Legion Memorial Stadium

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Since the inception of the Charlotte Independence, the club’s long-term goal has been to call American Legion Memorial Stadium home. This year, that goal will finally become a reality.

“It will be quite an accomplishment,” said Jim McPhilliamy, Independence's Managing Partner and CEO, in an interview with the USL Championship. “We have played in five different stadiums in the Charlotte area on our way to Memorial. That will make having a permanent home all the more fulfilling for our team and our fans. It should be among the best in the league going forward.”

The brand new venue is set to have a capacity of 10,500 including standing area, and the type of amenities that have become standard at new venues across the Championship in recent years. Among them, a first for the Independence, will be a full video scoreboard and views of the surrounding city that will make for a memorable experience on game-nights and at other events.

“The views of Uptown Charlotte from every seat are great – unmatched in any U.S. stadium big or small in my opinion,” added McPhilliamy. “Also, the way the venue has incorporated the Charlotte greenway system into its design is awesome – there are trees on the concourse. It will be among the best small soccer stadiums in the United States.”

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Since the inception of the Charlotte Independence, the club’s long-term goal has been to call American Legion Memorial Stadium home. This year, that goal will finally become a reality.

“It will be quite an accomplishment,” said Jim McPhilliamy, Independence’s Managing Partner and CEO, in an interview with the USL Championship. “We have played in five different stadiums in the Charlotte area on our way to Memorial. That will make having a permanent home all the more fulfilling for our team and our fans. It should be among the best in the league going forward.”

The brand new venue is set to have a capacity of 10,500 including standing area, and the type of amenities that have become standard at new venues across the Championship in recent years. Among them, a first for the Independence, will be a full video scoreboard and views of the surrounding city that will make for a memorable experience on game-nights and at other events.

“The views of Uptown Charlotte from every seat are great – unmatched in any U.S. stadium big or small in my opinion,” added McPhilliamy. “Also, the way the venue has incorporated the Charlotte greenway system into its design is awesome – there are trees on the concourse. It will be among the best small soccer stadiums in the United States.”

Initial payments of $25 per deposit can be placed by emailing our team at tschuldt@queencitysc.com. Full-Season Members will receive tickets to every regular-season home game and will choose their seats first, in the order their deposits are received.

Full-Season Membership also includes free parking, a free licensed seat cushion for a limited time, and savings up to 50% on the price of single-game tickets.

Partial-Season Members choose their seats second in the order their deposits are received. Partial-Season Membership includes tickets to nine regular-season home games and savings up to 20% on the price of single-game tickets. Seating priority will be determined in order of initial deposits placed.

Independence fans will be able to choose from five different seating options including Club Seats, VIP Overlook, Field-Level VIP, reserved grandstand and general admission grandstand. 

The USL Championship announced last week that the 2021 regular season divisions, and will contain a 32-game slate running across 27 weeks through the end of October with playoffs scheduled for November. In voting for a flexible start date, the Governors have approved for clubs to begin play anywhere between April 24th and May 15th.  

Initial payments of $25 per deposit can be placed by emailing our team at tschuldt@queencitysc.com. Full-Season Members will receive tickets to every regular-season home game and will choose their seats first, in the order their deposits are received.

Full-Season Membership also includes free parking, a free licensed seat cushion for a limited time, and savings up to 50% on the price of single-game tickets.

Partial-Season Members choose their seats second in the order their deposits are received. Partial-Season Membership includes tickets to nine regular-season home games and savings up to 20% on the price of single-game tickets. Seating priority will be determined in order of initial deposits placed.

Independence fans will be able to choose from five different seating options including Club Seats, VIP Overlook, Field-Level VIP, reserved grandstand and general admission grandstand. 

The USL Championship announced last week that the 2021 regular season divisions, and will contain a 32-game slate running across 27 weeks through the end of October with playoffs scheduled for November. In voting for a flexible start date, the Governors have approved for clubs to begin play anywhere between April 24th and May 15th.  

ABOUT THE 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 2021 Season Memberships, visit https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/charlotteindependence or call 704-206-1515.

Social: Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

ABOUT THE 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 2021 Season Memberships, visit https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/charlotteindependence or call 704-206-1515.

Social: Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

Charlotte Independence Extends Partnership With Smoothie King

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Charlotte Independence is pleased to announce it will be extending its partnership with its official partner, Smoothie King, alongside Independence Soccer Club. 

Smoothie King has been a partner of the Jacks since 2019, during which time it has worked closely with the USL Championship team and youth soccer club to use the partnership to serve athletes and their families in their health and nutrition efforts.

With a strong line-up of benefits and assets from the Independence and the added reach to the 12,000+ families affiliated with Independence Soccer Club, Smoothie King, with over 30 Charlotte area locations, will use the partnership to invest in making the community a better place to live, while growing its brand and product sales.

While the partnership will provide continual marketing assets including traditional media, digital capabilities, events, and direct marketing with both the professional team and the youth club, Smoothie King also secured the rights to be a presenting sponsor of one major youth tournament and one televised home match for the first team through 2023. As part of the extended and enhanced relationship, Smoothie King will make use of prominent matchday visibility at Independence SC and each Independence home game to strengthen brand awareness.

Commenting on the renewal, Tim Schuldt, President & COO at Charlotte Independence, said: “Smoothie King remains the leader in their space, and is the kind of brand we are thrilled to align with. They have a strong brand and their nutritious, refreshing products are a perfect fit for our team and our nationally leading youth club.”  

“They’re a tremendous partner and bring such enthusiasm to what we are doing to serve this community,” stated Thomas Finlay, Independence Soccer Club’s Chief Executive Officer. “We appreciate their commitment for the next few years. We look forward to growing with Smoothie King and helping them achieve their goals.”

“When we started working with the Independence first team in 2019, we were very excited when they added the youth club,” stated Tricia Robson, Field Marketing Manager for Smoothie King. “We now have the high-profile benefits of professional soccer as well as tremendous grassroots reach throughout the greater Charlotte region. It’s a terrific fit for our brand and our mission to inspire people to live a healthy and active lifestyle.”

For more information regarding the agreement with Smoothie King, visit https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/charlotteindependence. Additional information will be forth coming directly to Independence members.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Charlotte Independence is pleased to announce it will be extending its partnership with its official partner, Smoothie King, alongside Independence Soccer Club. 

Smoothie King has been a partner of the Jacks since 2019, during which time it has worked closely with the USL Championship team and youth soccer club to use the partnership to serve athletes and their families in their health and nutrition efforts.

With a strong line-up of benefits and assets from the Independence and the added reach to the 12,000+ families affiliated with Independence Soccer Club, Smoothie King, with over 30 Charlotte area locations, will use the partnership to invest in making the community a better place to live, while growing its brand and product sales.

While the partnership will provide continual marketing assets including traditional media, digital capabilities, events, and direct marketing with both the professional team and the youth club, Smoothie King also secured the rights to be a presenting sponsor of one major youth tournament and one televised home match for the first team through 2023. As part of the extended and enhanced relationship, Smoothie King will make use of prominent matchday visibility at Independence SC and each Independence home game to strengthen brand awareness.

Commenting on the renewal, Tim Schuldt, President & COO at Charlotte Independence, said: “Smoothie King remains the leader in their space, and is the kind of brand we are thrilled to align with. They have a strong brand and their nutritious, refreshing products are a perfect fit for our team and our nationally leading youth club.”  

“They’re a tremendous partner and bring such enthusiasm to what we are doing to serve this community,” stated Thomas Finlay, Independence Soccer Club’s Chief Executive Officer. “We appreciate their commitment for the next few years. We look forward to growing with Smoothie King and helping them achieve their goals.”

“When we started working with the Independence first team in 2019, we were very excited when they added the youth club,” stated Tricia Robson, Field Marketing Manager for Smoothie King. “We now have the high-profile benefits of professional soccer as well as tremendous grassroots reach throughout the greater Charlotte region. It’s a terrific fit for our brand and our mission to inspire people to live a healthy and active lifestyle.”

For more information regarding the agreement with Smoothie King, visit https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/charlotteindependence. Additional information will be forth coming directly to Independence members.

ABOUT SMOOTHIE KING FRANCHISES, INC.: Smoothie King Franchises, Inc., the original U.S. smoothie franchise, is a privately held, Dallas-based franchise company with more than 1,000 units worldwide. It was founded in 1973 with the mission to help others achieve better health in a delicious way through smoothies.

Today, it continues its mission to inspire a healthy and active lifestyle through its Clean Blends™ initiative, which focuses on great-tasting smoothies with more whole fruits and vegetables while removing artificial flavors, colors and preservatives and added sugars in many of its blends.

Smoothie King extends its vision to be an integral part of every health and fitness journey through partnerships with the Challenged Athletes Foundation® and the Smoothie King Center. The franchise is currently ranked No. 1 by Entrepreneur magazine in the juice bar category for the 29th consecutive year, ranked No.14 overall on the “2020 Franchise 500” list and debuted on the “Inc. 5000” list in 2018. The company also offers retail products that include sports beverages, energy bars, vitamins, supplements and more. For franchising opportunities, visit smoothiekingfranchise.com.

ABOUT THE 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 2021 Season Memberships, visit https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/charlotteindependence or call 704-206-1515.

Social: Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook

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, NPL, USL (United Soccer League) Academy, USL League Two, to the USL Championship. 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 strengthened 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: Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook

ABOUT SMOOTHIE KING FRANCHISES, INC.: Smoothie King Franchises, Inc., the original U.S. smoothie franchise, is a privately held, Dallas-based franchise company with more than 1,000 units worldwide. It was founded in 1973 with the mission to help others achieve better health in a delicious way through smoothies.

Today, it continues its mission to inspire a healthy and active lifestyle through its Clean Blends™ initiative, which focuses on great-tasting smoothies with more whole fruits and vegetables while removing artificial flavors, colors and preservatives and added sugars in many of its blends.

Smoothie King extends its vision to be an integral part of every health and fitness journey through partnerships with the Challenged Athletes Foundation® and the Smoothie King Center. The franchise is currently ranked No. 1 by Entrepreneur magazine in the juice bar category for the 29th consecutive year, ranked No.14 overall on the “2020 Franchise 500” list and debuted on the “Inc. 5000” list in 2018. The company also offers retail products that include sports beverages, energy bars, vitamins, supplements and more. For franchising opportunities, visit smoothiekingfranchise.com.

ABOUT THE 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 2021 Season Memberships, visit https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/charlotteindependence or call 704-206-1515.

Social: Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook

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, NPL, USL (United Soccer League) Academy, USL League Two, to the USL Championship. 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 strengthened 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: Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook

USL Championship Announces 2021 Season Format

TAMPA, Fla. – The USL Championship announced on Thursday following the league’s Board of Governors meeting that the 2021 regular season will begin on or about May 1, see the teams split in to four divisions, and will contain a 32-game slate running across 27 weeks through the end of October with playoffs scheduled for November.

In voting for a flexible start date, the Governors have approved for clubs to begin play anywhere between April 24th and May 15th. Further announcements on scheduling, divisional alignment and playoff structure will be made in the coming months and the league will continue to monitor the ongoing COVID-19 crises in the event that alterations to the format need to be made. 

Focused on building the profile of soccer in the Charlotte community, the Independence are set to play the 2021 USL Championship season in the new-look American Legion Memorial Stadium. 

Independence fans will be able to choose from five different seating options including Club Seats, VIP Overlook, Field-Level VIP, reserved grandstand and general admission grandstand. All seats have incredible sightlines as well as a perfect view of the city skyline.

Supporters will be updated with all 2021 season developments as soon as they are made available. 

TAMPA, Fla. – The USL Championship announced on Thursday following the league’s Board of Governors meeting that the 2021 regular season will begin on or about May 1, see the teams split in to four divisions, and will contain a 32-game slate running across 27 weeks through the end of October with playoffs scheduled for November.

In voting for a flexible start date, the Governors have approved for clubs to begin play anywhere between April 24th and May 15th. Further announcements on scheduling, divisional alignment and playoff structure will be made in the coming months and the league will continue to monitor the ongoing COVID-19 crises in the event that alterations to the format need to be made. 

Focused on building the profile of soccer in the Charlotte community, the Independence are set to play the 2021 USL Championship season in the new-look American Legion Memorial Stadium. 

Independence fans will be able to choose from five different seating options including Club Seats, VIP Overlook, Field-Level VIP, reserved grandstand and general admission grandstand. All seats have incredible sightlines as well as a perfect view of the city skyline.

Supporters will be updated with all 2021 season developments as soon as they are made available. 

ABOUT THE 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 2021 Season Memberships, visit https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/charlotteindependence or call 704-206-1515.

Social: Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

ABOUT THE 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 2021 Season Memberships, visit https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/charlotteindependence or call 704-206-1515.

Social: Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

Dave Carton Named Head Coach of Independence 2

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Independence Soccer Club has appointed Dave Carton as the new head coach of Independence SC’s USL League Two team, Charlotte Independence 2.

Carton will begin the job immediately as he chooses a roster and staff and preps for Independence 2’s inaugural season in League Two this coming May.

"I’m very proud to take on the role of head coach, and to lead the program in what will be our club’s first year in the league," said Carton. "I have always felt that this phase of a player’s development has been underserved in recent times, and I am very excited that our club can provide this platform for our players. This is an excellent league, which will expose our players to the next step in their development. This program is an integral part of what makes our club unique in our soccer community, and I look forward to working with the players and staff to make a very real impact in this league."

Carton, with 15 years of experience as a coach, and director of clubs in North Carolina and South Carolina, becomes the first-ever head coach to take the reins of Independence 2. In addition, he is the Technical Director for Independence SC where he is responsible for club curriculum and player development among other duties.

"Dave [Carton] is a natural choice for the position, stated Thomas Finlay, Independence Soccer Club’s Chief Executive Officer. "He is qualified, soccer smart, and motivated, and will play a significant role in how we integrate our youth club with the pro team as well as unifying the soccer community. This is purely a reflection of the club's commitment to player development for all players."

Independence 2 provides a professional environment to help bridge the development gap between the club’s Academy and its USL Championship team, the Charlotte Independence. Carton and his staff will help introduce Independence SC’s Academy players to the professional platform through the summer months, integrating them with current high-level college players that are alumni of the club, and USL professional prospects, as part of the Independence’s Player Pathway.

The program, which will compete in the Deep South Division in League Two’s Southern Conference, will allow Independence SC to align and underscore the Independence’s professional playing style and identity with the USL Championship, completing the club’s Development Pyramid, and providing players with the complete Path 2 Pro experience.

"The goal of the program is to link and connect the work we are doing with the Academy, with what Mike (Jeffries) is doing with the first team," added Carton. "We will build the squad primarily around top Academy players and Independence SC Alumni that are currently competing in their college programs. The aim here is to knit the club together, building on an already existing emotional connection, but also provide a feeling of belonging among the players that is very often missing at this level of play. This facet of the program motivates me greatly, and I believe will create a unique USL 2 environment that our players and members can be proud of."

A native of Wexford, Ireland, Carton graduated from Winthrop University with a BA in History, followed by a master’s degree in History in 2010, receiving a second master's degree in International Sports Management from the Johan Cruyff Institute for Sports Management in 2015. After graduating, Carton joined the coaching staff at Winthrop. In his three years on staff, the Eagles won a Regular Season Championship and two Big South Conference Championships.

Additionally, Carton spent 12 years at Discoveries Soccer Club where he was an Academy Director, Director of Coaching, and Executive Director.

Carton holds a USSF National “A” license, USC Premier license, and a Master Coach Diploma from the United Soccer Coaches.

For more information regarding Carton and Independence 2, visit independencesoccer.club. Additional information will be forth coming directly to Independence SC’s members.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Independence Soccer Club has appointed Dave Carton as the new head coach of Independence SC’s USL League Two team, Charlotte Independence 2.

Carton will begin the job immediately as he chooses a roster and staff and preps for Independence 2’s inaugural season in League Two this coming May.

“I’m very proud to take on the role of head coach, and to lead the program in what will be our club’s first year in the league,” said Carton. “I have always felt that this phase of a player’s development has been underserved in recent times, and I am very excited that our club can provide this platform for our players. This is an excellent league, which will expose our players to the next step in their development. This program is an integral part of what makes our club unique in our soccer community, and I look forward to working with the players and staff to make a very real impact in this league.”

Carton, with 15 years of experience as a coach, and director of clubs in North Carolina and South Carolina, becomes the first-ever head coach to take the reins of Independence 2. In addition, he is the Technical Director for Independence SC where he is responsible for club curriculum and player development among other duties.

“Dave [Carton] is a natural choice for the position, stated Thomas Finlay, Independence Soccer Club’s Chief Executive Officer. “He is qualified, soccer smart, and motivated, and will play a significant role in how we integrate our youth club with the pro team as well as unifying the soccer community. This is purely a reflection of the club’s commitment to player development for all players.”

Independence 2 provides a professional environment to help bridge the development gap between the club’s Academy and its USL Championship team, the Charlotte Independence. Carton and his staff will help introduce Independence SC’s Academy players to the professional platform through the summer months, integrating them with current high-level college players that are alumni of the club, and USL professional prospects, as part of the Independence’s Player Pathway.

The program, which will compete in the Deep South Division in League Two’s Southern Conference, will allow Independence SC to align and underscore the Independence’s professional playing style and identity with the USL Championship, completing the club’s Development Pyramid, and providing players with the complete Path 2 Pro experience.

“The goal of the program is to link and connect the work we are doing with the Academy, with what Mike (Jeffries) is doing with the first team,” added Carton. “We will build the squad primarily around top Academy players and Independence SC Alumni that are currently competing in their college programs. The aim here is to knit the club together, building on an already existing emotional connection, but also provide a feeling of belonging among the players that is very often missing at this level of play. This facet of the program motivates me greatly, and I believe will create a unique USL 2 environment that our players and members can be proud of.”

A native of Wexford, Ireland, Carton graduated from Winthrop University with a BA in History, followed by a master’s degree in History in 2010, receiving a second master’s degree in International Sports Management from the Johan Cruyff Institute for Sports Management in 2015. After graduating, Carton joined the coaching staff at Winthrop. In his three years on staff, the Eagles won a Regular Season Championship and two Big South Conference Championships.

Additionally, Carton spent 12 years at Discoveries Soccer Club where he was an Academy Director, Director of Coaching, and Executive Director.

Carton holds a USSF National “A” license, USC Premier license, and a Master Coach Diploma from the United Soccer Coaches.

For more information regarding Carton and Independence 2, visit independencesoccer.club. Additional information will be forth coming directly to Independence SC’s members.

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, NPL, USL (United Soccer League) Academy, USL League Two, to the USL Championship. 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 strengthened 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: Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook

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, NPL, USL (United Soccer League) Academy, USL League Two, to the USL Championship. 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 strengthened 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: Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook

ABOUT THE 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 2021 Season Memberships, visit https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/charlotteindependence or call 704-206-1515.

Social: Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

ABOUT THE 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 2021 Season Memberships, visit https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/charlotteindependence or call 704-206-1515.

Social: Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

USL Championship Health and Wellness Protocols

On March 12, the 2020 USL Championship season was suspended in light of the COVID-19 crisis and the World Health Organization’s classification of the disease as a pandemic.  The Championship was not alone in this decision, joining every other major American sports league – including USL League One – in ceasing play while society grappled with how to manage the virus.  Shortly thereafter, it began work on putting together a series of policies and protocols that would ultimately govern any potential return to play and help ensure the health and wellness of all involved remained its single most important priority.

On March 12, the 2020 USL Championship season was suspended in light of the COVID-19 crisis and the World Health Organization’s classification of the disease as a pandemic.  The Championship was not alone in this decision, joining every other major American sports league – including USL League One – in ceasing play while society grappled with how to manage the virus.  Shortly thereafter, it began work on putting together a series of policies and protocols that would ultimately govern any potential return to play and help ensure the health and wellness of all involved remained its single most important priority.

USL consulted with a variety of stakeholders in the development of these protocols. As an initial matter, the league’s Board of Governors created a “Hiatus Task Force” to dive deeply into issues related to health and safety. Members of the Hiatus Task Force were nominated by the teams and then selected based (in part) on their relationship with other leagues grappling with the same issues. Through that process, we were able to understand many of the best practices instilled by Major League Soccer, the National Basketball Association, Major League Baseball, and the National Women’s Soccer League. To this end, USL also actively participated in the United States Soccer Federation’s COVID-19 task force, through which it worked closely with MLS and NWSL to share best practices specific to the soccer context. The USL Players Association (“USLPA”) reviewed, commented on, and provided input to the 2020 Protocols, the USLPA bargaining committee approved them, and they were ratified by its membership. The USLPA has continued to review, comment on, and provide input to the 2021 version of these Protocols, the USLPA bargaining committee once again approved them, and they have again been ratified by its membership.

Most importantly, USL consulted early and often with a broad array of medical experts about the nature of the virus, when it would be safe to effectuate a return to play, and what protocols should be in place to mitigate risk. These experts include Dr. Jon McCullers, Sr. Executive Associate Dean of Clinical Affairs and Chief Operating Officer at the College of Medicine at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center; Dr. Howard Chrisman, the President of Northwestern Medical Group at the Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine; and Dr. George Chiampas, the Chief Medical Officer of the United States Soccer Federation. Although no activity can ever be completely risk free, our experts agree that these protocols are reasonable and rigorous – and that moving forward under these protocols involves a medically acceptable level of risk.

It is also possible that, in some cases, these Protocols will be less strict than the guidance, recommendations or requirements of applicable state and local health authorities (“Health Authority Guidance”). In these cases, teams and players must comply with the Health Authority Guidance. Put differently, these protocols are intended to supplement (and not replace) Health Authority Guidance.

USL consulted with a variety of stakeholders in the development of these protocols. As an initial matter, the league’s Board of Governors created a “Hiatus Task Force” to dive deeply into issues related to health and safety. Members of the Hiatus Task Force were nominated by the teams and then selected based (in part) on their relationship with other leagues grappling with the same issues. Through that process, we were able to understand many of the best practices instilled by Major League Soccer, the National Basketball Association, Major League Baseball, and the National Women’s Soccer League. To this end, USL also actively participated in the United States Soccer Federation’s COVID-19 task force, through which it worked closely with MLS and NWSL to share best practices specific to the soccer context. The USL Players Association (“USLPA”) reviewed, commented on, and provided input to the 2020 Protocols, the USLPA bargaining committee approved them, and they were ratified by its membership. The USLPA has continued to review, comment on, and provide input to the 2021 version of these Protocols, the USLPA bargaining committee once again approved them, and they have again been ratified by its membership.

Most importantly, USL consulted early and often with a broad array of medical experts about the nature of the virus, when it would be safe to effectuate a return to play, and what protocols should be in place to mitigate risk. These experts include Dr. Jon McCullers, Sr. Executive Associate Dean of Clinical Affairs and Chief Operating Officer at the College of Medicine at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center; Dr. Howard Chrisman, the President of Northwestern Medical Group at the Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine; and Dr. George Chiampas, the Chief Medical Officer of the United States Soccer Federation. Although no activity can ever be completely risk free, our experts agree that these protocols are reasonable and rigorous – and that moving forward under these protocols involves a medically acceptable level of risk.

It is also possible that, in some cases, these Protocols will be less strict than the guidance, recommendations or requirements of applicable state and local health authorities (“Health Authority Guidance”). In these cases, teams and players must comply with the Health Authority Guidance. Put differently, these protocols are intended to supplement (and not replace) Health Authority Guidance.

Given the nature of the COVID-19 threat, no one approach is sufficient to mitigate the spread of the virus. While for example, regular testing of asymptomatic individuals will help, this single step is not foolproof. To this end, the USL’s Return-to-Play Protocols take a five-pronged approach to mitigate against the risk of COVID-19.  These elements are:

1. Social Distancing
2. Personal Protective Equipment and Sanitization
3. Screening
4. Testing
5. Training and Education


Below, more detail is provided as to how each of these elements will be applied in practice.

Given the nature of the COVID-19 threat, no one approach is sufficient to mitigate the spread of the virus. While for example, regular testing of asymptomatic individuals will help, this single step is not foolproof. To this end, the USL’s Return-to-Play Protocols take a five-pronged approach to mitigate against the risk of COVID-19.  These elements are:

1. Social Distancing
2. Personal Protective Equipment and Sanitization
3. Screening
4. Testing
5. Training and Education


Below, more detail is provided as to how each of these elements will be applied in practice.

1. Maximizing Social Distancing

In soccer, a certain degree of contact is inevitable. With that, except where impossible or highly impracticable, social distancing measures are required under the USL Return-to-Play Protocols. To give some examples of how this process will work in practice:

  • The competition will generally be regionalized so that air travel is limited.
  • When traveling to another market by bus, teams are required to use multiple buses if social distancing is not able to be maintained on a single bus.
  • Players and other essential staff who may come into contact with players are required to stay at home unless attending to essential functions or team activities.
  • Unless they are actively playing, social distancing is generally required during training and matches, i.e., players will not huddle to hear coaching instructions and should spread to a six-foot distance if on the sidelines or in the technical area.
  • Social distancing is required within the locker room and weight rooms; this may require usage to be staggered.
  • No player will be asked to share a hotel room with another player unless those players are already living together.
1. Maximizing Social Distancing

In soccer, a certain degree of contact is inevitable. With that, except where impossible or highly impracticable, social distancing measures are required under the USL Return-to-Play Protocols. To give some examples of how this process will work in practice:

  • The competition will generally be regionalized so that air travel is limited.
  • When traveling to another market by bus, teams are required to use multiple buses if social distancing is not able to be maintained on a single bus.
  • Players and other essential staff who may come into contact with players are required to stay at home unless attending to essential functions or team activities.
  • Unless they are actively playing, social distancing is generally required during training and matches, i.e., players will not huddle to hear coaching instructions and should spread to a six-foot distance if on the sidelines or in the technical area.
  • Social distancing is required within the locker room and weight rooms; this may require usage to be staggered.
  • No player will be asked to share a hotel room with another player unless those players are already living together.
2. Mitigation through PPE and Sanitization

In order to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19, the USL Return to Play Protocols require that:

  • Players and staff members who work with players must wear masks in any situation where they are outside of their homes and may potentially be unable to maintain social distancing, the only exception being active training or match play. 
  • Anyone at field level who is not playing must wear a mask.
  • When traveling from market to market, masks are required throughout the journey.
  • Masks are required in the locker room, weight room and training rooms, and during any team meeting.
  • In limited circumstances in which players travel by plane, masks are required in the airport and throughout the journey. Players will also be provided with disinfectant and hand sanitizer to use throughout the trip.
  • Any space in which team activities are to take place must be disinfected before and after use.
  • All equipment must be single-use, where possible. If this is not possible, it is to be disinfected before and after use.
  • Teams will follow increased cleaning protocols, as these are applicable in their particular jurisdiction.
2. Mitigation through PPE and Sanitization

In order to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19, the USL Return to Play Protocols require that:

  • Players and staff members who work with players must wear masks in any situation where they are outside of their homes and may potentially be unable to maintain social distancing, the only exception being active training or match play. 
  • Anyone at field level who is not playing must wear a mask.
  • When traveling from market to market, masks are required throughout the journey.
  • Masks are required in the locker room, weight room and training rooms, and during any team meeting.
  • In limited circumstances in which players travel by plane, masks are required in the airport and throughout the journey. Players will also be provided with disinfectant and hand sanitizer to use throughout the trip.
  • Any space in which team activities are to take place must be disinfected before and after use.
  • All equipment must be single-use, where possible. If this is not possible, it is to be disinfected before and after use.
  • Teams will follow increased cleaning protocols, as these are applicable in their particular jurisdiction.
3. Rigorous Screening

Based on our conversations with medical experts, rigorous screening for symptoms and immediate isolation of symptomatic cases is essential to mitigating the spread of the COVID-19.  To that end:

  • Prior to reporting to training, treatment, or any other team activity, individuals will be surveyed as to whether they: (a) are feeling sick, (b) are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms, or (c) have had close contact with anyone who has a diagnosed or suspected case of COVID-19. 
  • Anyone who answers affirmatively will not report and self-quarantine until the team physician can determine whether testing or an additional quarantine period is warranted.
  • Upon reporting to training, treatment, or any other team activity, individuals will have their temperatures checked. 
  • Anyone with a temperature of 100.4 or higher will immediately return home and self-quarantine until the team physician can determine whether testing or an additional quarantine period is warranted.
3. Rigorous Screening

Based on our conversations with medical experts, rigorous screening for symptoms and immediate isolation of symptomatic cases is essential to mitigating the spread of the COVID-19.  To that end:

  • Prior to reporting to training, treatment, or any other team activity, individuals will be surveyed as to whether they: (a) are feeling sick, (b) are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms, or (c) have had close contact with anyone who has a diagnosed or suspected case of COVID-19. 
  • Anyone who answers affirmatively will not report and self-quarantine until the team physician can determine whether testing or an additional quarantine period is warranted.
  • Upon reporting to training, treatment, or any other team activity, individuals will have their temperatures checked. 
  • Anyone with a temperature of 100.4 or higher will immediately return home and self-quarantine until the team physician can determine whether testing or an additional quarantine period is warranted.
4. Comprehensive Testing RegimeN

Given the risks posed by COVID-19 and based on our conversations with medical experts, the USL has determined that is advisable to exceed state and local health department requirements and recommendations and institute a comprehensive testing regimen for all players, as well as for all other club personnel who may interact with players.

  • Players, and staff members who work with players, will be given a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) diagnostic test for COVID-19 every week, in addition to one “baseline” test.
  • In addition, players and staff members who work with players will be given additional PCR tests if they are symptomatic or if they have been in close contact for a prolonged period with a diagnosed or suspected case of COVID-19.
  • In the event of a positive PCR test:
    • The individual will be immediately isolated and receive follow-up care and treatment.
    • If appropriate (at the discretion of the team physician), the individual may be tested again to ensure the initial test was not a false positive. 
    • All areas in which the individual has been will be closed for 24 hours for cleaning and disinfection.
    • The individual’s club, in consultation with the state or local health department, will conduct a contact tracing investigation.
    • Anyone identified in the contact tracing investigation will immediately quarantine and be tested one or more times on a schedule to be determined by the team physician. 
4. Comprehensive Testing RegimeN

Given the risks posed by COVID-19 and based on our conversations with medical experts, the USL has determined that is advisable to exceed state and local health department requirements and recommendations and institute a comprehensive testing regimen for all players, as well as for all other club personnel who may interact with players.

  • Players, and staff members who work with players, will be given a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) diagnostic test for COVID-19 every week, in addition to one “baseline” test.
  • In addition, players and staff members who work with players will be given additional PCR tests if they are symptomatic or if they have been in close contact for a prolonged period with a diagnosed or suspected case of COVID-19.
  • In the event of a positive PCR test:
    • The individual will be immediately isolated and receive follow-up care and treatment.
    • If appropriate (at the discretion of the team physician), the individual may be tested again to ensure the initial test was not a false positive. 
    • All areas in which the individual has been will be closed for 24 hours for cleaning and disinfection.
    • The individual’s club, in consultation with the state or local health department, will conduct a contact tracing investigation.
    • Anyone identified in the contact tracing investigation will immediately quarantine and be tested one or more times on a schedule to be determined by the team physician. 
5. Training and Education

The USL is highly aware that these protocols are only valuable to the extent that all participants in our ecosystem fully understand and abide by them. To this end, all players and staff who may interact with players will receive comprehensive training on the protocols. In addition, each team will designate one or more Health Officers who will be responsible for providing follow-on education within their team and implementing the protocols.

5. Training and Education

The USL is highly aware that these protocols are only valuable to the extent that all participants in our ecosystem fully understand and abide by them. To this end, all players and staff who may interact with players will receive comprehensive training on the protocols. In addition, each team will designate one or more Health Officers who will be responsible for providing follow-on education within their team and implementing the protocols.

In the unlikely event that teams cannot comply with any of the requirements (e.g., because of venue infrastructure), they are required to contact the league as soon as possible to devise an alternative, medically acceptable plan, which is subject to League Office approval.

While unlikely, it is also possible that, in some cases, these Protocols will be less strict than the guidance, recommendations or requirements of applicable state and local health authorities.  In such cases, teams and players must comply first and foremost with their local and state health authority guidance. To be clear, these protocols are intended to supplement, not replace, health authority guidance.

These Protocols remain subject to change and, as the situation evolves and we learn more about the novel coronavirus, we may update these Protocols as appropriate. 

From the onset of the COVID-19 crisis, the health and wellness of players, staff and supporters has been our top priority, and for more than three months we have been working every day to make sure that our return-to-play was done safely.

We also want to be as transparent as possible with you about the steps that are being taken. As such, we have from the beginning remained committed to publishing the full list of protocols. While everything to this point serves as a summary, we believe that seeing every step taken to provide for player, staff and supporter health is in the best interest of all involved.

Below are the policies and protocols in their entirety.

In the unlikely event that teams cannot comply with any of the requirements (e.g., because of venue infrastructure), they are required to contact the league as soon as possible to devise an alternative, medically acceptable plan, which is subject to League Office approval.

While unlikely, it is also possible that, in some cases, these Protocols will be less strict than the guidance, recommendations or requirements of applicable state and local health authorities.  In such cases, teams and players must comply first and foremost with their local and state health authority guidance. To be clear, these protocols are intended to supplement, not replace, health authority guidance.

These Protocols remain subject to change and, as the situation evolves and we learn more about the novel coronavirus, we may update these Protocols as appropriate. 

From the onset of the COVID-19 crisis, the health and wellness of players, staff and supporters has been our top priority, and for more than three months we have been working every day to make sure that our return-to-play was done safely.

We also want to be as transparent as possible with you about the steps that are being taken. As such, we have from the beginning remained committed to publishing the full list of protocols. While everything to this point serves as a summary, we believe that seeing every step taken to provide for player, staff and supporter health is in the best interest of all involved.

Below are the policies and protocols in their entirety.

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