2012 Archive

The Carolina RailHawks have acquired forward Brian Shriver from the Fort Lauderdale Strikers. The forward will be returning to the Triangle where he had an illustrious four-year career at the University of North Carolina. Shriver is a former member of the RailHawks U-23’s program led by Dewan Bader.

Shriver was a standout player in high school, in Clearwater, Florida, where he was recognized as an Adidas Youth All-American.  In the beginning of his college career Shriver was moved into the midfield where he had success, but his true explosion came his senior season when he was moved to forward. He led the Tar Heels to the NCAA College Cup where they defeated #1 seed Wake Forest in semifinals, with Shriver scoring the game winning goal and sending UNC to the College Cup final. Shriver finished his senior season with 14 goals and 5 assists for 33 points.

After earning All-ACC honors, Shriver was drafted by FC Dallas with the 20th overall pick of the 2009 MLS SuperDraft. He chose not to sign with Dallas and subsequently signed with Miami FC (now Fort Lauderdale Strikers). While with the Strikers, Brian consistently improved his game and had an outstanding 2011 season. He finished the season with 11 goals and 3 assists. Shriver was a key part of the Strikers run to the NASL Final.

“Brian is a talented player with a tremendous scoring ability. His production is constantly on the rise and we are fortunate to add him to our roster,” said Head Coach Colin Clarke. “He had a great season with the Strikers, but he is still developing. Our fans will certainly enjoy him and he will be an important contributor for this team.” 

Shriver will join his RailHawks teammates as they face off against Vancouver Whitecaps FC on Sunday, March 4 at 3:00 pm in the 4th Annual Hilton Garden Inn Durham Southpoint Community Shield Match. Individual tickets can be purchased for the Community Shield Match by visiting www.CarolinaRailHawks.com.  For more information on RailHawks tickets and game details call the Cruizers box office at (919) 459-8144 or e-mail tickets@carolinarailhawks.com.

The Carolina RailHawks have acquired forward Brian Shriver from the Fort Lauderdale Strikers. The forward will be returning to the Triangle where he had an illustrious four-year career at the University of North Carolina. Shriver is a former member of the RailHawks U-23’s program led by Dewan Bader.

Shriver was a standout player in high school, in Clearwater, Florida, where he was recognized as an Adidas Youth All-American.  In the beginning of his college career Shriver was moved into the midfield where he had success, but his true explosion came his senior season when he was moved to forward. He led the Tar Heels to the NCAA College Cup where they defeated #1 seed Wake Forest in semifinals, with Shriver scoring the game winning goal and sending UNC to the College Cup final. Shriver finished his senior season with 14 goals and 5 assists for 33 points.

After earning All-ACC honors, Shriver was drafted by FC Dallas with the 20th overall pick of the 2009 MLS SuperDraft. He chose not to sign with Dallas and subsequently signed with Miami FC (now Fort Lauderdale Strikers). While with the Strikers, Brian consistently improved his game and had an outstanding 2011 season. He finished the season with 11 goals and 3 assists. Shriver was a key part of the Strikers run to the NASL Final.

“Brian is a talented player with a tremendous scoring ability. His production is constantly on the rise and we are fortunate to add him to our roster,” said Head Coach Colin Clarke. “He had a great season with the Strikers, but he is still developing. Our fans will certainly enjoy him and he will be an important contributor for this team.” 

Shriver will join his RailHawks teammates as they face off against Vancouver Whitecaps FC on Sunday, March 4 at 3:00 pm in the 4th Annual Hilton Garden Inn Durham Southpoint Community Shield Match. Individual tickets can be purchased for the Community Shield Match by visiting www.CarolinaRailHawks.com.  For more information on RailHawks tickets and game details call the Cruizers box office at (919) 459-8144 or e-mail tickets@carolinarailhawks.com.

The Carolina RailHawks announced the signing of local products Austen King and Justin Willis. The defenders are set to begin their professional careers after enjoying success at the U23 level. They played a big role in the USASA U23 National Championship that the RailHawks captured in 2011.

Austen King played at Elon University, where he was recognized as team MVP among other accolades. During his youth career he played for CASL where he served as captain. Justin Willis played for North Carolina State University where he was a starter in 2011. Like Austen, he also played club soccer at CASL.

“Having Austen and Justin signing with the RailHawks first team is a huge accomplishment for the RailHawks U23’s and the local club teams. Our goal with the RailHawks U23 team is to provide an educational program that allows players to learn and get ready for the next level,” said Dewan Bader, head coach of RailHawks U-23's. “Our players work hard and learn additional skills to make them better players. Austen and Justin embraced our program and will now have the opportunity to play professionally at home.”

With the signing of King and Willis, four local players will play for the RailHawks this season. King, Willis, Drake, and Ackley all played for local youth clubs and high schools before heading off to college. The four also played for the RailHawks U23’s, which shows the strength of the player development process of the Triangle area.

The RailHawks U-23’s program is sponsored by JRW Associates and led by Head Coach Dewan Bader.  JRW Associates, a United Benefit Advisors firm that covers over 10 million members, plays a key role as the program’s success would not be possible without their valued support.  The RailHawks U-23’s program gives aspiring professional soccer players the opportunity to train and compete in a professional soccer environment over the course of the summer.  In 2011, the U-23’s won the USASA U-23 Men’s Region III and National Cups.

The Carolina RailHawks announced the signing of local products Austen King and Justin Willis. The defenders are set to begin their professional careers after enjoying success at the U23 level. They played a big role in the USASA U23 National Championship that the RailHawks captured in 2011.

Austen King played at Elon University, where he was recognized as team MVP among other accolades. During his youth career he played for CASL where he served as captain. Justin Willis played for North Carolina State University where he was a starter in 2011. Like Austen, he also played club soccer at CASL.

“Having Austen and Justin signing with the RailHawks first team is a huge accomplishment for the RailHawks U23’s and the local club teams. Our goal with the RailHawks U23 team is to provide an educational program that allows players to learn and get ready for the next level,” said Dewan Bader, head coach of RailHawks U-23’s. “Our players work hard and learn additional skills to make them better players. Austen and Justin embraced our program and will now have the opportunity to play professionally at home.”

With the signing of King and Willis, four local players will play for the RailHawks this season. King, Willis, Drake, and Ackley all played for local youth clubs and high schools before heading off to college. The four also played for the RailHawks U23’s, which shows the strength of the player development process of the Triangle area.

The RailHawks U-23’s program is sponsored by JRW Associates and led by Head Coach Dewan Bader.  JRW Associates, a United Benefit Advisors firm that covers over 10 million members, plays a key role as the program’s success would not be possible without their valued support.  The RailHawks U-23’s program gives aspiring professional soccer players the opportunity to train and compete in a professional soccer environment over the course of the summer.  In 2011, the U-23’s won the USASA U-23 Men’s Region III and National Cups.

Cary, N.C. – The Carolina RailHawks have announced the signing of Hermann Trophy winner and MLS Champion Jason Garey.   Garey has experienced the Triangle’s strong soccer community from his visits as a member of the University of Maryland’s men’s soccer team, where he is the all-time leader in points (140) and goals scored (60).

Following his senior season at Maryland, Garey was selected by the Columbus Crew with the 3rd overall pick in the 2006 MLS SuperDraft.  Garey, a 6-year MLS veteran, tallied 15 goals and 6 assist during his time with the Columbus Crew and Houston Dynamo.  Known for his outstanding work rate and ability to score goals, Garey has a championship pedigree and he looks to continue that trend.

“Carolina is a great organization that has been very successful on the field and it is a great opportunity to be a part of the continued success,” said Garey.  “I am ready to get back to the field and compete for an NASL Championship.”

In addition to his ability to score, Garey is a winner.  As a member of the Maryland Terrapins, Garey led his team to achieve an ACC Regular Season Championship, ACC Tournament Championship, four College Cup appearances, and the 2005 NCAA Division I Men’s Soccer Championship.  During his time with the Crew in MLS, Garey was an integral part of the team’s that would go on to capture two Supporter’s Shields (2008, 2009) and the 2008 MLS Cup. Outside the pitch, the Crew recognized Jason with their Humanitarian of the Year award in 2010 for his efforts in his native Louisiana. 

“Jason is a prolific striker with a great instinct for scoring goals and a proven winner at all levels,” said Head Coach Colin Clarke. “We will look for Jason to continue these traits and be an important part of helping us capture the 2012 NASL Championship.” 

The RailHawks will first take the field at WakeMed Soccer Park on Sunday, March 4th in an exhibition match against the Vancouver Whitecaps FC of Major League Soccer.  Tickets to the Vancouver exhibition match and the RailHawks NASL home opener on April 14th can be purchased by signing up for your 2012 Season Tickets.  All-Inclusive season ticket packages start at $119 and Flex Plan ticket packages start as low as $50. For more information on RailHawks tickets and game information call the Cruizers box office at 919-459-8144 or e-mail tickets@carolinarailhawks.com.

Cary, N.C. – The Carolina RailHawks have announced the signing of Hermann Trophy winner and MLS Champion Jason Garey.   Garey has experienced the Triangle’s strong soccer community from his visits as a member of the University of Maryland’s men’s soccer team, where he is the all-time leader in points (140) and goals scored (60).

Following his senior season at Maryland, Garey was selected by the Columbus Crew with the 3rd overall pick in the 2006 MLS SuperDraft.  Garey, a 6-year MLS veteran, tallied 15 goals and 6 assist during his time with the Columbus Crew and Houston Dynamo.  Known for his outstanding work rate and ability to score goals, Garey has a championship pedigree and he looks to continue that trend.

“Carolina is a great organization that has been very successful on the field and it is a great opportunity to be a part of the continued success,” said Garey.  “I am ready to get back to the field and compete for an NASL Championship.”

In addition to his ability to score, Garey is a winner.  As a member of the Maryland Terrapins, Garey led his team to achieve an ACC Regular Season Championship, ACC Tournament Championship, four College Cup appearances, and the 2005 NCAA Division I Men’s Soccer Championship.  During his time with the Crew in MLS, Garey was an integral part of the team’s that would go on to capture two Supporter’s Shields (2008, 2009) and the 2008 MLS Cup. Outside the pitch, the Crew recognized Jason with their Humanitarian of the Year award in 2010 for his efforts in his native Louisiana. 

“Jason is a prolific striker with a great instinct for scoring goals and a proven winner at all levels,” said Head Coach Colin Clarke. “We will look for Jason to continue these traits and be an important part of helping us capture the 2012 NASL Championship.” 

The RailHawks will first take the field at WakeMed Soccer Park on Sunday, March 4th in an exhibition match against the Vancouver Whitecaps FC of Major League Soccer.  Tickets to the Vancouver exhibition match and the RailHawks NASL home opener on April 14th can be purchased by signing up for your 2012 Season Tickets.  All-Inclusive season ticket packages start at $119 and Flex Plan ticket packages start as low as $50. For more information on RailHawks tickets and game information call the Cruizers box office at 919-459-8144 or e-mail tickets@carolinarailhawks.com.

CARY, N.C. – Two former RailHawks U-23’s are heading for the pros. Enzo Martinez and Billy Schuler have signed professional contracts with Major League Soccer and Hammarby IF, respectively, to begin their professional careers. Both players were members of the RailHawks U-23’s that captured the 2011 U-23 National Cup and members of UNC Men’s soccer program that won the 2011 NCAA College Cup. 

Martinez signed an MLS’ Generation Adidas contract and participated in the MLS Super Draft last week in Kansas City, MO.  Real Salt Lake selected Martinez with the No. 17 pick in the draft. Martinez left his mark on the RailHawks U-23’s program and also recognized the importance of his development over the summer. 

“This summer was great for preparing us for the college season and for giving us an idea of what to expect in the pros,” the talented midfielder said. “It was the most fun I had playing soccer in a long time. The U-23 program was a big help in preparing for what was a great year at UNC and winning the National Championship.”

Schuler will join the growing number of Americans abroad, signing to play with Hammarby IF, of Sweden. Schuler will experience a transition to the European game aided by former Tar Heel and Hammarby coach, Gregg Berhalter.  After multiple seasons with the RailHawks U-23’s, Schuler was able to utilize last summer to get ready for the college season. 

“Coming off an injury last year, it was huge for me, getting my fitness and sharpness back,” Schuler said. “I really enjoyed this past summer, playing against professional teams and winning in the U-23 Regional and National Cups.”

RailHawks U-23’s Head Coach Dewan Bader congratulated the players and wished them good luck. “Billy and Enzo are fantastic players and great young men.  The U-23 program has a mission to develop players and preparing them for life on and off the pitch. We wish them the best of luck, and look forward to see where their careers go from here.”

The RailHawks U-23’s program is sponsored by JRW Associates and led by Head Coach Dewan Bader.  JRW Associates, a United Benefit Advisors firm that covers over 10 million members, plays a key role as the program’s success would not be possible without their valued support.  The RailHawks U-23’s program gives aspiring professional soccer players the opportunity to train and compete in a professional soccer environment over the course of the summer.  In 2011, the U-23’s won the USASA U-23 Men’s Region III and National Cups.

CARY, N.C. – Two former RailHawks U-23’s are heading for the pros. Enzo Martinez and Billy Schuler have signed professional contracts with Major League Soccer and Hammarby IF, respectively, to begin their professional careers. Both players were members of the RailHawks U-23’s that captured the 2011 U-23 National Cup and members of UNC Men’s soccer program that won the 2011 NCAA College Cup. 

Martinez signed an MLS’ Generation Adidas contract and participated in the MLS Super Draft last week in Kansas City, MO.  Real Salt Lake selected Martinez with the No. 17 pick in the draft. Martinez left his mark on the RailHawks U-23’s program and also recognized the importance of his development over the summer. 

“This summer was great for preparing us for the college season and for giving us an idea of what to expect in the pros,” the talented midfielder said. “It was the most fun I had playing soccer in a long time. The U-23 program was a big help in preparing for what was a great year at UNC and winning the National Championship.”

Schuler will join the growing number of Americans abroad, signing to play with Hammarby IF, of Sweden. Schuler will experience a transition to the European game aided by former Tar Heel and Hammarby coach, Gregg Berhalter.  After multiple seasons with the RailHawks U-23’s, Schuler was able to utilize last summer to get ready for the college season. 

“Coming off an injury last year, it was huge for me, getting my fitness and sharpness back,” Schuler said. “I really enjoyed this past summer, playing against professional teams and winning in the U-23 Regional and National Cups.”

RailHawks U-23’s Head Coach Dewan Bader congratulated the players and wished them good luck. “Billy and Enzo are fantastic players and great young men.  The U-23 program has a mission to develop players and preparing them for life on and off the pitch. We wish them the best of luck, and look forward to see where their careers go from here.”

The RailHawks U-23’s program is sponsored by JRW Associates and led by Head Coach Dewan Bader.  JRW Associates, a United Benefit Advisors firm that covers over 10 million members, plays a key role as the program’s success would not be possible without their valued support.  The RailHawks U-23’s program gives aspiring professional soccer players the opportunity to train and compete in a professional soccer environment over the course of the summer.  In 2011, the U-23’s won the USASA U-23 Men’s Region III and National Cups.