USL League One News

Charlotte Independence Sign Colombian Forward Iván Luquetta

25 year old with top tier experience in Peru and Colombia

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (March 3, 2022) – The Charlotte Independence announced today that they have signed Colombian Forward Iván Luquetta for the 2022 season. Luquetta, born in Texas, returns to the United States after three years of high-level professional soccer competition in Peru and Colombia. Luquetta is the sixth signing for the Charlotte Independence and joins Clay Dimick, Héctor Acosta, Tresor Mbuyu, Shalom Dutey and Ayrton Páez ahead of the club’s USL League One debut.

“With his experience in First Division Peru and Colombia, Iván adds a new dimension to our attack,” explained Charlotte Independence Head Coach and General Manager, Mike Jeffries. “He has a strong ability to connect and combine with teammates, with excellent qualities around the goal. We are fortunate to bring him back to the States and look forward to his contributions in front of goal this season.”

Luquetta played his 2021 season with Academia Deportiva Cantolao, a Peruvian fútbol club, where he appeared in 13 games for 643 minutes and scored one goal.

The previous year Luquetta made four appearances for Boyacá Patriotas FC, also known as Patriotas, a professional Colombian fútbol team located in Tunja.

“I am very excited to join the Charlotte Independence, and I am thankful to the organization for giving me this opportunity,” stated Luquetta. “I’m excited to help the team win and to score goals.”

In 2019, he competed for both Barranquilla FC and Junior FC, the main Caribbean team in the top flight of Colombian fútbol. Luquetta began his professional soccer career in 2017 with LD Alajuelense (La Liga) who competes in the top tier of the Costa Rican fútbol league.

“Mike has found another gem in Iván! His international experience in South America has prepared him for this next step, and we’re thrilled to have him in Charlotte this season,” explained Charlotte Independence President and COO, Tim Schuldt. “Our attack, with Iván and Tresor, is shaping up to be very dynamic. We’re excited to see Iván and his teammates at our home opener presented by Chick-fil-A on Friday, April 8th.”

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 Announce 2022 Preseason Schedule

Three matches to be played at the Sportsplex at Matthews.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (February 24, 2022) – The Charlotte Independence announced today a five game preseason schedule as the club prepares for their USL League One debut. Three matches will be played at the Sportsplex at Matthews. Preseason matches hosted at the Sportsplex are open to fans with free admission. Seating is limited.

The Jacks begin preseason with a friendly at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte (UNCC) on Saturday, March 5. The following weekend they host Columbus Crew 2, an Ohio based MLS NEXT Pro developmental team, at the Manchester Meadows Soccer Complex.

Two USL League One teams, Greenville Triumph SC and North Carolina FC, will travel to the Queen City to face the Independence on Saturday, March 19 and Saturday, March 26 respectively.

The final preseason match will see the Jacks take on High Point University at the Sportsplex at Matthews on Saturday, April 2.

Full Preseason Schedule:

Saturday, March 5 – Time TBD
Charlotte Independence at UNCC

Saturday, March 12 – 11:00 AM
Charlotte Independence vs. Columbus Crew 2, Manchester Meadows Soccer Complex

Saturday, March 19 – 2:00 PM
Charlotte Independence vs. Greenville Triumph SC – Sportsplex at Matthews (Field 10)

Saturday, March 26 – 2:00 PM
Charlotte Independence vs. North Carolina FC – Sportsplex at Matthews (Field 10)

Saturday, April 2 – 11:00 AM
Charlotte Independence vs. High Point University – Sportsplex at Matthews (Field 10)

The Charlotte Independence officially open the 2022 season on Friday, April 8 at American Legion Memorial Stadium. The Jacks will host Central Valley Fuego FC and kickoff is scheduled for 7:00 PM (ET). Tickets are available at https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/charlotteindependence/uslleagueoneschedule.

Charlotte Independence Sign Venezuelan Midfielder Ayrton Páez

Páez to bring top-level experience after competing in Spain and Venezuela’s First Division.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (February 18, 2022) – The Charlotte Independence announced today that they have signed Venezuelan midfielder Ayrton Páez. Páez joins the Jacks after playing three seasons with Estudiantes de Mérida, a professional fútbol club in the Venezuelan League, who in 2019 earned a Runner Up title in the Primera Division.

“We are excited to bring Ayrton to Charlotte,” explained Charlotte Independence Head Coach and General Manager, Mike Jeffries. “I expect him to continue the tradition of strong two way midfielders with the Independence. Ayrton is clever and composed in possession, with the ability to make plays in the final third. In addition, Ayrton will provide leadership to our group with the experience of playing in Spain and First Division Venezuela.”

During his time at Estudiantes de Mérida, Páez recorded 2,208 minutes in 49 appearances and scored six goals.

Páez spent a short stint with Monaga at the start of 2018, a Venezuelan professional fútbol team who competes at the top level, Primera División Venezolana. Later that year, he signed with Spanish fourth division team, Loja. There he tallied an impressive 2,508 minutes in 31 appearances and scored six goals.

“Personally, I’m very happy to join the Charlotte Independence because I know the good fútbol it develops,” stated Páez. “Charlotte Independence is a great team where I know that I will be able to achieve important things at the group and individual levels. When the opportunity came, I had no doubts about joining the team. I’m eager to put all my fútbol at the service of the team, and I want to aim as high as possible and that is to win the championship.”

Early in his career, Páez competed for a number of Spanish fútbol clubs including: Mallorca (2014-2015), Atletico Malagueno (2015-2016), Sabadell (2016), Numancia B (2017) and Atarfe Industrial (2017-2018).

“Mike continues to assemble an exciting roster,” explained Charlotte Independence President & COO, Tim Schuldt. “With some seasoned returning players and an infusion of very talented new players like Ayrton Páez, we’re excited for our fans and the entertaining brand of soccer the Independence will play this year at American Legion Memorial Stadium!”

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!”

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!”

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.”

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.”

Charlotte Independence Announce Schedule Change with Richmond Kickers

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.

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.

*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.

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.

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:

Charlotte Independence to rekindle rivalries in USL League One starting in 2022

Team to focus on its youth-to-pro player pathway and better serve the Charlotte Soccer Community

Charlotte, N.C. (December 2, 2021) – “The Charlotte Independence are excited to announce a continuation of the partnership we have had with the USL since 2015, as our men’s professional team will prepare to compete in USL League One starting in 2022” said Jim McPhilliamy, CEO & Managing Partner of the Independence.

The team will play its first full season in the newly renovated American Legion Memorial Stadium next season after enjoying a partial season there in 2021. “We love our new home in American Legion Memorial Stadium” said principle team owner, Dan DiMicco. “Our team loved playing there this season, and we were able to build on winning our 2020 USL Championship Group last season by delivering our first-ever, home playoff match victory in 2021” DiMicco continued. “We couldn’t be prouder of this year’s team and it’s run at the Championship this season.”

The move to USL League One will allow the Independence to better serve the Charlotte soccer community. “We believe the Independence can better serve the Charlotte soccer community by increasing our focus on developing up-and-coming soccer players as they hone their talents,” said McPhilliamy. “Having our men’s professional team compete in USL League One provides an excellent opportunity to field even more players with Queen City roots. We love the Charlotte soccer community and want it to succeed at all levels.”

The Independence have worked diligently since their founding to build a strong model for player development for both men and women, as well as providing a highly entertaining, quality brand of soccer. “For our local soccer fans, the on-the-field product will remain a highly competitive professional level of men’s soccer – and at a very affordable price point. This move will allow us to work and collaborate more closely with our leading youth academy on the development of local and regional talent,” said team President & COO Tim Schuldt. “Coupled with the announcement of our USL W-League team starting next year, we will deliver the best youth-to-pro development platform for both boys and girls in our region.”

“Charlotte is a key market for the USL and American Legion Memorial Stadium is a great place to experience a game. We are excited to see the Independence join League One and the W League in 2022.” said USL President Jake Edwards. “The Independence and their academy deliver a robust and successful example of USL’s player pathways. We look forward to working with the Independence to continue to deliver exceptional player development and attractive soccer on the field.”

Founded in 2015, the Independence have always strived to put a competitive product on the pitch, going 85-65-59 all time. For local soccer fans, the Independence will continue to play at a highly competitive, fully professional level while focusing more on local talent. The move to League One will rekindle traditional rivalries with both the Richmond Kickers and North Carolina FC, which both preceded the Independence in their moves to League One. New rivalries will be formed with regional teams from South Georgia, Greenville and Chattanooga, providing fans easy access to many home and away matches throughout the season. New League One national opponents will include Omaha, Tucson, and Madison.

The team announced season tickets are now on sale for the Christmas gift-giving season with a Supporters Group season ticket starting at just $99 for 15 League One games and 6 W League games.

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