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“The North Carolina Football Club would like to congratulate FC Cincinnati and the entire City of Cincinnati for being awarded a Major League Soccer (MLS) franchise. Today’s announcement by Major League Soccer does not impact North Carolina Football Club’s effort to bring an MLS franchise to the Triangle. While the club was not among the initial two markets to be awarded, MLS has indicated that North Carolina Football Club continues to be in consideration for one of the two remaining expansion spots which will be announced at a later date.

North Carolina FC remains committed to pursuing an MLS franchise and is continuing to work diligently to secure a stadium in downtown Raleigh. Momentum for the project continues to build and we look forward to continued dialogue with the community and with MLS as we demonstrate why the Triangle should be home to a franchise.”

 

#919toMLS

“The North Carolina Football Club would like to congratulate FC Cincinnati and the entire City of Cincinnati for being awarded a Major League Soccer (MLS) franchise. Today’s announcement by Major League Soccer does not impact North Carolina Football Club’s effort to bring an MLS franchise to the Triangle. While the club was not among the initial two markets to be awarded, MLS has indicated that North Carolina Football Club continues to be in consideration for one of the two remaining expansion spots which will be announced at a later date.

North Carolina FC remains committed to pursuing an MLS franchise and is continuing to work diligently to secure a stadium in downtown Raleigh. Momentum for the project continues to build and we look forward to continued dialogue with the community and with MLS as we demonstrate why the Triangle should be home to a franchise.”

 

#919toMLS

CARY, N.C. (May 29, 2018) – North Carolina FC will resume Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup play against D.C. United on Tuesday, June 5 at 7 p.m. at the Maryland SoccerPlex in Boyds, Md., in the fourth round of the tournament. Tickets are $20 for general admission seating and are now available for purchase.

NCFC began its 2018 Open Cup run with a pair of dominant victories. The club opened the tournament with a 3-0 victory over amateur club Lansdowne Bhoys FC in the second round. NCFC then reached the fourth round of the Open Cup with a resounding 4-1 victory over the Ocean City Nor’easters of the PDL in the third round. This is the seventh occasion in which NCFC has advanced this far in the tournament. The fourth-round draw saw Major League Soccer enter the fray as NCFC was chosen for a road test against D.C. United.

NCFC has never faced D.C. United, although the team does have plenty of experience playing MLS competition in the Open Cup. NCFC has defeated MLS clubs on six occasions, including three consecutive Open Cup victories over the LA Galaxy from 2012-2014. Two players from the team's most recent victory in 2014 are still on the roster today as Tiyi Shipalane and Connor Tobin each played a part in the match. That experience could be key as NCFC looks to continue its march through the Open Cup.

CARY, N.C. (May 29, 2018) – North Carolina FC will resume Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup play against D.C. United on Tuesday, June 5 at 7 p.m. at the Maryland SoccerPlex in Boyds, Md., in the fourth round of the tournament. Tickets are $20 for general admission seating and are now available for purchase.

NCFC began its 2018 Open Cup run with a pair of dominant victories. The club opened the tournament with a 3-0 victory over amateur club Lansdowne Bhoys FC in the second round. NCFC then reached the fourth round of the Open Cup with a resounding 4-1 victory over the Ocean City Nor’easters of the PDL in the third round. This is the seventh occasion in which NCFC has advanced this far in the tournament. The fourth-round draw saw Major League Soccer enter the fray as NCFC was chosen for a road test against D.C. United.

NCFC has never faced D.C. United, although the team does have plenty of experience playing MLS competition in the Open Cup. NCFC has defeated MLS clubs on six occasions, including three consecutive Open Cup victories over the LA Galaxy from 2012-2014. Two players from the team’s most recent victory in 2014 are still on the roster today as Tiyi Shipalane and Connor Tobin each played a part in the match. That experience could be key as NCFC looks to continue its march through the Open Cup.

CARY, N.C. (May 25, 2018) – North Carolina FC continued its stellar home form and picked up a second victory within a week’s time with Friday’s 4-0 win over Atlanta United 2 at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. 
 
With the result, NCFC has now won four consecutive matches in Cary between USL and Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup competition, outscoring opponents 14-1 during the stretch. 
 
NCFC’s dominant offensive showing was highlighted by goals from all three of its strikers, as Donovan Ewolo, Daniel Rios and Marios Lomis all found the back of the net.  

“Obviously delighted,” NCFC head coach Colin Clarke said. “Great result, great performance: four goals, a clean sheet. Great response to Cincinnati. It’s been a tough, long, hard seven days – three games, travel. I thought they were outstanding tonight.”

Having earned a start up top after scoring his first goal for the club midweek against Ocean City in the Open Cup, Ewolo gave North Carolina FC an early lead in the seventh minute. 

The scoring opportunity came about when Ewolo outleapt Atlanta United center back Andrew Kendall-Moullin and played in Rios with a headed pass. After rounding Atlanta United goalkeeper Alec Kann, Rios sent it back to Ewolo, who maneuvered past a defender before firing his shot in between the legs of both a defender and Kann and into the net. 

NCFC’s offensive aggressiveness continued as Atlanta struggled to play out of the back, and Steven Miller made the visitors pay in the 21st minute. Approaching the end line on the right side of the 18-yard box, Miller sent in a threatening cross that resulted in an own goal scored by Atlanta's Will Crain. 

Clarke’s team took a 2-0 lead into halftime and didn’t rest on its laurels out of the break. Already with an assist to his name, Rios extended NCFC’s lead to three goals with a precise strike from a tight angle in the 52nd minute. Able to track down the rebound of midfielder Kyle Bekker’s effort, which unluckily hit the crossbar, Rios shielded a defender and fired a left-footed shot past Kann. 

From that point on, NCFC remained in full control and cruised to its third league win of 2018. In the 90th minute, Lomis, who came on in the 75th minute, added a fourth goal from just a few yards out after an on-target cross from Rios. 

Up Next: 
NCFC will play the second game of a four-match USL homestand on Saturday, June 2, at 7 p.m. ET against Bethlehem Steel. The match will be the first ever between the two teams. Tickets are available online, over the phone at 919-459-8144 or in person at the Coastal Credit Union Box Office.

Game Changer: 
Ahead 2-0 as halftime neared, NCFC was in full control of the game. However, Atlanta United nearly nicked a goal one minute into first-half stoppage time, but NCFC goalkeeper Alex Tambakis rose to the occasion. Alone right in front of goal following a scramble that resulted from a set piece, Atlanta United’s Brandon Vazquez was denied from close range by Tambakis, who, from the ground, blocked the effort.

The save from Tambakis came just eight minutes after the goalkeeper was hit in the head twice in the 38th minute while sliding to gather a through ball. Luckily for NCFC, Tambakis was able to stay in the game and ultimately prevent Atlanta United from getting on the scoreboard right before halftime, which could have swung the momentum.  

Key Stat: 
NCFC has scored the first goal in five of its last six games. 

They Said It: 
“It felt great. I’ve missed it, and it was a warm welcome from the Triangle family and NCFC. Thanks to Colin and everyone else for giving me the opportunity to be back. It was good to get a win at home.” – Tiyi Shipalane. 

Notes: 
– With his second-half goal, Daniel Rios continued his good start to the season. Through eight matches, the Mexican striker has notched five goals, and he also  earned his first two assists of the season Friday night. 

– Thanks to another good night in goal, Alex Tambakis is up to four shutouts in 2018. The Greek goalkeeper has played every minute of USL action this season for NCFC. 

– Fan-favorite Tiyi Shipalane, who re-signed with NCFC on Thursday, entered the match as a substitute in the 85th minute to a large applause from the home crowd. Now in his eighth season with the club, Shipalane ranks second in club history in goals (33), minutes (11,661) and appearances (176) and first in assists (20). 

– Marios Lomis stayed in great goal-scoring form Friday night. With his 90th minute tally, Lomis has now scored in four consecutive matches. 
 
– Friday night’s match was the first ever between NCFC and Atlanta United 2, which is playing its first season. However, a longstanding soccer rivalry between Atlanta and Raleigh dates back to the 1990s with the Raleigh Flyers and Atlanta Ruckus.

Box Score:
 
Lineups:
NCFC (4-4-2): Alex Tambakis; Peabo Doue, Michael Harrington, Futty Danso, DJ Taylor; Austin da Luz © (Marcel Kandziora, 61’), Kyle Bekker (Tiyi Shipalane, 85’), Graham Smith, Steven Miller; Daniel Rios, Donovan Ewolo (Marios Lomis, 75’)

Subs not used: Austin Guerrero, Dre Fortune, Connor Tobin, Aaron Guillen
 
ATL (4-5-1): Alec Kann; Jose Hernandez (Chris Goslin, 81’), Will Crain, Andrew Kendall-Moullin, Jack Metcalf ©; Andrew Wheeler-Omiunu, Jose Carranza, Laurent Kissiedou (Andrew Carleton, 46’), Lagos Kunga (Yosef Samuel, 61’), Jon Gallagher; Brandon Vasquez

Subs not used: Paul Christensen, Oliver Shannon, Devon Sandoval, AJ Cochran

Score:
NCFC: 4
ATL: 0
 
Goals:
NCFC: Donovan Ewolo (Daniel Rios, 7’), Will Crain (OG, 21’), Daniel Rios (Unassisted, 52’), Marios Lomis (Daniel Rios, 89’)
ATL: —

Cautions:
NCFC: Kyle Bekker 45+'
ATL: Andrew Wheeler-Omiunu 72’, Andrew Kendall-Moullin 72’
 
Ejections:
NCFC: —
ATL: —
 
Attendance: 3,710
 

###

CARY, N.C. (May 25, 2018) – North Carolina FC continued its stellar home form and picked up a second victory within a week’s time with Friday’s 4-0 win over Atlanta United 2 at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. 
 
With the result, NCFC has now won four consecutive matches in Cary between USL and Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup competition, outscoring opponents 14-1 during the stretch. 
 
NCFC’s dominant offensive showing was highlighted by goals from all three of its strikers, as Donovan Ewolo, Daniel Rios and Marios Lomis all found the back of the net.  

“Obviously delighted,” NCFC head coach Colin Clarke said. “Great result, great performance: four goals, a clean sheet. Great response to Cincinnati. It’s been a tough, long, hard seven days – three games, travel. I thought they were outstanding tonight.”

Having earned a start up top after scoring his first goal for the club midweek against Ocean City in the Open Cup, Ewolo gave North Carolina FC an early lead in the seventh minute. 

The scoring opportunity came about when Ewolo outleapt Atlanta United center back Andrew Kendall-Moullin and played in Rios with a headed pass. After rounding Atlanta United goalkeeper Alec Kann, Rios sent it back to Ewolo, who maneuvered past a defender before firing his shot in between the legs of both a defender and Kann and into the net. 

NCFC’s offensive aggressiveness continued as Atlanta struggled to play out of the back, and Steven Miller made the visitors pay in the 21st minute. Approaching the end line on the right side of the 18-yard box, Miller sent in a threatening cross that resulted in an own goal scored by Atlanta’s Will Crain. 

Clarke’s team took a 2-0 lead into halftime and didn’t rest on its laurels out of the break. Already with an assist to his name, Rios extended NCFC’s lead to three goals with a precise strike from a tight angle in the 52nd minute. Able to track down the rebound of midfielder Kyle Bekker’s effort, which unluckily hit the crossbar, Rios shielded a defender and fired a left-footed shot past Kann. 

From that point on, NCFC remained in full control and cruised to its third league win of 2018. In the 90th minute, Lomis, who came on in the 75th minute, added a fourth goal from just a few yards out after an on-target cross from Rios. 

Up Next: 
NCFC will play the second game of a four-match USL homestand on Saturday, June 2, at 7 p.m. ET against Bethlehem Steel. The match will be the first ever between the two teams. Tickets are available online, over the phone at 919-459-8144 or in person at the Coastal Credit Union Box Office.

Game Changer: 
Ahead 2-0 as halftime neared, NCFC was in full control of the game. However, Atlanta United nearly nicked a goal one minute into first-half stoppage time, but NCFC goalkeeper Alex Tambakis rose to the occasion. Alone right in front of goal following a scramble that resulted from a set piece, Atlanta United’s Brandon Vazquez was denied from close range by Tambakis, who, from the ground, blocked the effort.

The save from Tambakis came just eight minutes after the goalkeeper was hit in the head twice in the 38th minute while sliding to gather a through ball. Luckily for NCFC, Tambakis was able to stay in the game and ultimately prevent Atlanta United from getting on the scoreboard right before halftime, which could have swung the momentum.  

Key Stat: 
NCFC has scored the first goal in five of its last six games. 

They Said It: 
“It felt great. I’ve missed it, and it was a warm welcome from the Triangle family and NCFC. Thanks to Colin and everyone else for giving me the opportunity to be back. It was good to get a win at home.” – Tiyi Shipalane. 

Notes: 
– With his second-half goal, Daniel Rios continued his good start to the season. Through eight matches, the Mexican striker has notched five goals, and he also  earned his first two assists of the season Friday night. 

– Thanks to another good night in goal, Alex Tambakis is up to four shutouts in 2018. The Greek goalkeeper has played every minute of USL action this season for NCFC. 

– Fan-favorite Tiyi Shipalane, who re-signed with NCFC on Thursday, entered the match as a substitute in the 85th minute to a large applause from the home crowd. Now in his eighth season with the club, Shipalane ranks second in club history in goals (33), minutes (11,661) and appearances (176) and first in assists (20). 

– Marios Lomis stayed in great goal-scoring form Friday night. With his 90th minute tally, Lomis has now scored in four consecutive matches. 
 
– Friday night’s match was the first ever between NCFC and Atlanta United 2, which is playing its first season. However, a longstanding soccer rivalry between Atlanta and Raleigh dates back to the 1990s with the Raleigh Flyers and Atlanta Ruckus.

Box Score:
 
Lineups:
NCFC (4-4-2): Alex Tambakis; Peabo Doue, Michael Harrington, Futty Danso, DJ Taylor; Austin da Luz © (Marcel Kandziora, 61’), Kyle Bekker (Tiyi Shipalane, 85’), Graham Smith, Steven Miller; Daniel Rios, Donovan Ewolo (Marios Lomis, 75’)

Subs not used: Austin Guerrero, Dre Fortune, Connor Tobin, Aaron Guillen
 
ATL (4-5-1): Alec Kann; Jose Hernandez (Chris Goslin, 81’), Will Crain, Andrew Kendall-Moullin, Jack Metcalf ©; Andrew Wheeler-Omiunu, Jose Carranza, Laurent Kissiedou (Andrew Carleton, 46’), Lagos Kunga (Yosef Samuel, 61’), Jon Gallagher; Brandon Vasquez

Subs not used: Paul Christensen, Oliver Shannon, Devon Sandoval, AJ Cochran

Score:
NCFC: 4
ATL: 0
 
Goals:
NCFC: Donovan Ewolo (Daniel Rios, 7’), Will Crain (OG, 21’), Daniel Rios (Unassisted, 52’), Marios Lomis (Daniel Rios, 89’)
ATL: —

Cautions:
NCFC: Kyle Bekker 45+’
ATL: Andrew Wheeler-Omiunu 72’, Andrew Kendall-Moullin 72’
 
Ejections:
NCFC: —
ATL: —
 
Attendance: 3,710
 

###

CARY, N.C. (May 24, 2018) –North Carolina FC will host Atlanta United 2 on Friday, May 25 at 7 p.m. at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park, aiming for its fourth-straight home victory.
 
The match is the first ever between the two teams, although NCFC has a history of competing against Atlanta-based soccer clubs. For years, the club competed against the Atlanta Silverbacks in the USL First Division and the NASL. Raleigh’s history with Atlanta goes back even further, as the Raleigh Flyers faced professional soccer teams from Atlanta since 1998.
 
In Atlanta United 2, however, NCFC will face a side affiliated with Atlanta United of Major League Soccer. While its parent club began competition in 2017, the 2018 season is Atlanta United 2’s first. 
 
Ten matches into the season, Atlanta United 2 finds itself in 13th place in the USL standings after a 2-1 loss at Louisville City FC on Saturday. 
 
The Atlanta United 2 squad features several young players with great upsides, including homegrown talent Andrew Carleton. A talented winger who has appeared for the U.S. U-20 National Team, Carleton is just 17 years old but has already made three senior appearances with Atlanta United. The Powder Springs, Ga., native has also made five appearances with Atlanta United 2 and scored his first USL goal in a 1-1 draw against Louisville City FC in April. 
 
Carleton and his Atlanta United 2 teammates will be facing an NCFC squad that’s been in good league form as of late. NCFC has taken points from four of its last five USL matches. 
 
A key factor in NCFC’s recent success has been the emergence of midfielder Kyle Bekker. Entering the week, the Canadian International has recorded five assists in his last three matches. 
 
NCFC head coach Colin Clarke’s group also received a boost when center back and co-captain Connor Tobin made his season debut against Lansdowne Bhoys FC after missing the first seven matches of the season due to injury. Tobin scored with his first touch of the season on a header in the second minute against Lansdowne, and his return helps solidify an already steady NCFC defense.
 
Last Time Out:
NCFC rolled past the Ocean City Nor’easters 4-1 to advance to the fourth round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. Marios Lomis, Austin da Luz, Dre Fortune and Donovan Ewolo all scored in the route. The win marked NCFC’s third win in a row at home.
 
Players to Watch:
#31 Jose Carranza
Carranza will make his return to Cary after spending the 2017 season with NCFC. Across all competitions, he featured in nine matches and played 488 minutes while recording one assist. This season, Carranza has been a big part of Atlanta’s midfield and has already played nine matches while logging 420 minutes. Look for the familiar face to play a big role in Atlanta’s distribution.
 
#1 Alex Tambakis
Tambakis signed with North Carolina FC in the offseason and has been a mainstay in net for the club in USL play. The goalkeeper is tied for sixth in the league with three shutouts on the season. Facing an Atlanta side with a keen eye for scoring goals, Tambakis will need to be sharp in this match.
 
Coming Up Next:
NCFC will remain at home to face Bethlehem Steel FC on Saturday, June 2 at 7 p.m. at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. The match is presented by Aetna and will be Campout Night.Tickets are available online, over the phone at 919-459-8144 or in person at the Coast Credit Union Box Office.

###

CARY, N.C. (May 24, 2018) –North Carolina FC will host Atlanta United 2 on Friday, May 25 at 7 p.m. at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park, aiming for its fourth-straight home victory.
 
The match is the first ever between the two teams, although NCFC has a history of competing against Atlanta-based soccer clubs. For years, the club competed against the Atlanta Silverbacks in the USL First Division and the NASL. Raleigh’s history with Atlanta goes back even further, as the Raleigh Flyers faced professional soccer teams from Atlanta since 1998.
 
In Atlanta United 2, however, NCFC will face a side affiliated with Atlanta United of Major League Soccer. While its parent club began competition in 2017, the 2018 season is Atlanta United 2’s first. 
 
Ten matches into the season, Atlanta United 2 finds itself in 13th place in the USL standings after a 2-1 loss at Louisville City FC on Saturday. 
 
The Atlanta United 2 squad features several young players with great upsides, including homegrown talent Andrew Carleton. A talented winger who has appeared for the U.S. U-20 National Team, Carleton is just 17 years old but has already made three senior appearances with Atlanta United. The Powder Springs, Ga., native has also made five appearances with Atlanta United 2 and scored his first USL goal in a 1-1 draw against Louisville City FC in April. 
 
Carleton and his Atlanta United 2 teammates will be facing an NCFC squad that’s been in good league form as of late. NCFC has taken points from four of its last five USL matches. 
 
A key factor in NCFC’s recent success has been the emergence of midfielder Kyle Bekker. Entering the week, the Canadian International has recorded five assists in his last three matches. 
 
NCFC head coach Colin Clarke’s group also received a boost when center back and co-captain Connor Tobin made his season debut against Lansdowne Bhoys FC after missing the first seven matches of the season due to injury. Tobin scored with his first touch of the season on a header in the second minute against Lansdowne, and his return helps solidify an already steady NCFC defense.
 
Last Time Out:
NCFC rolled past the Ocean City Nor’easters 4-1 to advance to the fourth round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. Marios Lomis, Austin da Luz, Dre Fortune and Donovan Ewolo all scored in the route. The win marked NCFC’s third win in a row at home.
 
Players to Watch:
#31 Jose Carranza
Carranza will make his return to Cary after spending the 2017 season with NCFC. Across all competitions, he featured in nine matches and played 488 minutes while recording one assist. This season, Carranza has been a big part of Atlanta’s midfield and has already played nine matches while logging 420 minutes. Look for the familiar face to play a big role in Atlanta’s distribution.
 
#1 Alex Tambakis
Tambakis signed with North Carolina FC in the offseason and has been a mainstay in net for the club in USL play. The goalkeeper is tied for sixth in the league with three shutouts on the season. Facing an Atlanta side with a keen eye for scoring goals, Tambakis will need to be sharp in this match.
 
Coming Up Next:
NCFC will remain at home to face Bethlehem Steel FC on Saturday, June 2 at 7 p.m. at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. The match is presented by Aetna and will be Campout Night.Tickets are available online, over the phone at 919-459-8144 or in person at the Coast Credit Union Box Office.

###

CARY, N.C. (May 24, 2018)– North Carolina FC has welcomed back a familiar face with the re-signing of veteran and longtime club standout Tiyi Shipalane. The move improves the club’s depth and adds another dangerous attacking option to the roster. 

“Yes, it’s good to rejoin the team," said Shipalane. “Obviously, I’m looking forward to us making the playoffs. That’s a must-do. I’m excited to get started and I look forward to making 2018 another good year for my career.”

Shipalane is set to enter his eighth season with NCFC. Nicknamed ‘The Human Highlight Reel’, he’s provided plenty of game-changing moments for NCFC throughout his career. He ranks second in club history with 33 goals, 11,656 minutes and 175 appearances and first in club history with 20 assists. His experience and skill will allow him to contribute along the wings immediately.

Shipalane began his professional career in 2009 as he signed with the Harrisburg City Islanders, now known as Penn FC. He scored six goals in 18 appearances and was named the USL-2 Rookie of the Year. Following short stints with MLS club D.C. United and a loan with the Richmond Kickers of the USL, Shipalane re-signed with Harrisburg City for two games before ultimately signing with NCFC in 2010.

In addition to his success in league play with the club, Shipalane has a history of clutch performances in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup as well. He made an impact as a substitute against the LA Galaxy in 2012, as he scored a 75th minute equalizer and assisted the 88th minute winner for NCFC’s first win over LA. He also added a goal in NCFC’s 3-1 victory over Chivas USA in 2013, helping the squad advance to the quarterfinals.

Additionally, North Carolina FC has announced that it has mutually parted ways with Carson Nsegbe, who is no longer on the team’s roster.

Shipalane will be available immediately for selection as NCFC continues its USL campaign against Atlanta United 2 on Friday, May 25 at 7 p.m. at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. The match will revive a soccer rivalry between the two cities that dates back to 1998. Tickets are available online, over the phone at 919-459-8144 or in person at the Coastal Credit Union Box Office. The night will be Military Appreciation Night and will feature exclusive merchandise and ticket packages. Click here for more details.

Name: Tiyi Shipalane
Number: 22
Position: Midfielder
Birthdate: 10/5/1985 (Age: 32)
Hometown: Tzaneen, South Africa
Height: 5’10”
Weight: 160 lbs
Citizenship: South Africa
Previous Club: North Carolina FC
Transaction: North Carolina FC has signed Tiyi Shipalane.

 

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CARY, N.C. (May 24, 2018)– North Carolina FC has welcomed back a familiar face with the re-signing of veteran and longtime club standout Tiyi Shipalane. The move improves the club’s depth and adds another dangerous attacking option to the roster. 

“Yes, it’s good to rejoin the team,” said Shipalane. “Obviously, I’m looking forward to us making the playoffs. That’s a must-do. I’m excited to get started and I look forward to making 2018 another good year for my career.”

Shipalane is set to enter his eighth season with NCFC. Nicknamed ‘The Human Highlight Reel’, he’s provided plenty of game-changing moments for NCFC throughout his career. He ranks second in club history with 33 goals, 11,656 minutes and 175 appearances and first in club history with 20 assists. His experience and skill will allow him to contribute along the wings immediately.

Shipalane began his professional career in 2009 as he signed with the Harrisburg City Islanders, now known as Penn FC. He scored six goals in 18 appearances and was named the USL-2 Rookie of the Year. Following short stints with MLS club D.C. United and a loan with the Richmond Kickers of the USL, Shipalane re-signed with Harrisburg City for two games before ultimately signing with NCFC in 2010.

In addition to his success in league play with the club, Shipalane has a history of clutch performances in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup as well. He made an impact as a substitute against the LA Galaxy in 2012, as he scored a 75th minute equalizer and assisted the 88th minute winner for NCFC’s first win over LA. He also added a goal in NCFC’s 3-1 victory over Chivas USA in 2013, helping the squad advance to the quarterfinals.

Additionally, North Carolina FC has announced that it has mutually parted ways with Carson Nsegbe, who is no longer on the team’s roster.

Shipalane will be available immediately for selection as NCFC continues its USL campaign against Atlanta United 2 on Friday, May 25 at 7 p.m. at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. The match will revive a soccer rivalry between the two cities that dates back to 1998. Tickets are available online, over the phone at 919-459-8144 or in person at the Coastal Credit Union Box Office. The night will be Military Appreciation Night and will feature exclusive merchandise and ticket packages. Click here for more details.

Name: Tiyi Shipalane
Number: 22
Position: Midfielder
Birthdate: 10/5/1985 (Age: 32)
Hometown: Tzaneen, South Africa
Height: 5’10”
Weight: 160 lbs
Citizenship: South Africa
Previous Club: North Carolina FC
Transaction: North Carolina FC has signed Tiyi Shipalane.

 

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Cary, N.C. (May 23, 2018)– North Carolina Football Club has announced July game platforms for North Carolina FC and NC Courage home matches, kicking off the month with a Fourth of July fireworks celebration and concluding with Faith & Family Night. 

The Courage begin its July slate of games with back-to-back home matches, the first of which comes against the Chicago Red Stars on July 4. Following the match, there will be a postgame fireworks show, and fans will be invited to go onto the field to watch the show. The game also serves as Military Appreciation Night presented by Duke Energy, as the Courage plan to honor active and former members of the military. 
 
Three days later, NCFC will host Wizard Night when the club takes on the Charleston Battery. Wizard House scarves can be purchased at the match, and several quidditch teams will make a halftime appearance. 

The NC Courage’s Wednesday, July 11 match against the Washington Spirit has been dubbed Wayback Wednesday presented by Ipreo. Throwback Carolina Courage merchandise will be available for purchase. 

On July 21, NCFC returns home for its first home match in two weeks against Toronto FC II. The match will be presented by Capitol Broadcast Company and the game will serve as Summer Camp Recognition Night, which includes special ticket offers. More information about this specific game’s additional themes and deals will be announced soon. 

Faith & Family Night will be held on July 28 when NCFC hosts the Pittsburgh Riverhounds. For the occasion, players will offer postgame testimonies. 
 
Below is a list of all the upcoming July game night platforms.

Wednesday, July 4 – NC Courage vs. Chicago Red Stars, 7 p.m., Military Appreciation Night presented by Duke Energy
Postgame fireworks show, $16 North Stand ticket special or $22 Lower Sideline ticket special with patriotic-themed hat. 
 
Saturday, July 7 – NCFC vs. Charleston Battery, 7 p.m., Wizard Night
NCFC Wizard Houses scarves, $39 Wizard Pack ticket special including two North or South Stand tickets and two scarves, $45 Southern Derby Rivalry Pack, a three-game ticket special with Lower Level Sideline seating to matches against Charleston (7/7), Charleston (8/4) and Charlotte (8/25). 
 
Wednesday, July 11 – NC Courage vs. Washington Spirit, 7 p.m., Wayback Wednesday presented by Ipreo 
$39 Wayback Ticket Pack, including two Lower Level Sideline tickets and two Wayback Courage t-shirts. 
 
Saturday, July 21 – NCFC vs. Toronto FC II, 7 p.m., presented by Capitol Broadcasting Company. Summer Camp Recognition.
$10 North Stand ticket offer for all local summer camps and families. More details to be announced soon
 
Saturday, July 28 – NCFC vs. Pittsburgh Riverhounds, 7 p.m., Faith & Family Night
Special t-shirt available for purchase, choir performances, $14 Lower Sideline ticket, $22 Lower sideline ticket with t-shirt. 
 
Additional details and game platforms will be announced soon and fans can visit the NC Courageand North Carolina FC schedule pages for more information and to purchase tickets. 
 
About North Carolina Football Club
North Carolina Football Club is the largest youth-to-professional soccer organization in the country, home to 14,000 players. The club is comprised of a women’s First Division team, North Carolina Courage (NWSL), a men’s Second Division team, North Carolina FC (USL), as well as a Premier Development League team, North Carolina FC U23 (USLPDL). The organization is also home to both Boys and Girls U.S. Soccer Development Academies in collaboration with NCFC Youth effectively creating a true pyramid from youth recreational all the way to the professional teams. The North Carolina Football Club is owned by local entrepreneur, Steve Malik, and managed by North Carolina native and longtime soccer executive Curt Johnson. North Carolina Football Club was established in 2016 to bring the highest levels of men’s and women’s professional soccer to the state. For more information, please visit www.www.northcarolinafc.com.
 

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Cary, N.C. (May 23, 2018)– North Carolina Football Club has announced July game platforms for North Carolina FC and NC Courage home matches, kicking off the month with a Fourth of July fireworks celebration and concluding with Faith & Family Night. 

The Courage begin its July slate of games with back-to-back home matches, the first of which comes against the Chicago Red Stars on July 4. Following the match, there will be a postgame fireworks show, and fans will be invited to go onto the field to watch the show. The game also serves as Military Appreciation Night presented by Duke Energy, as the Courage plan to honor active and former members of the military. 
 
Three days later, NCFC will host Wizard Night when the club takes on the Charleston Battery. Wizard House scarves can be purchased at the match, and several quidditch teams will make a halftime appearance. 

The NC Courage’s Wednesday, July 11 match against the Washington Spirit has been dubbed Wayback Wednesday presented by Ipreo. Throwback Carolina Courage merchandise will be available for purchase. 

On July 21, NCFC returns home for its first home match in two weeks against Toronto FC II. The match will be presented by Capitol Broadcast Company and the game will serve as Summer Camp Recognition Night, which includes special ticket offers. More information about this specific game’s additional themes and deals will be announced soon. 

Faith & Family Night will be held on July 28 when NCFC hosts the Pittsburgh Riverhounds. For the occasion, players will offer postgame testimonies. 
 
Below is a list of all the upcoming July game night platforms.

Wednesday, July 4 – NC Courage vs. Chicago Red Stars, 7 p.m., Military Appreciation Night presented by Duke Energy
Postgame fireworks show, $16 North Stand ticket special or $22 Lower Sideline ticket special with patriotic-themed hat. 
 
Saturday, July 7 – NCFC vs. Charleston Battery, 7 p.m., Wizard Night
NCFC Wizard Houses scarves, $39 Wizard Pack ticket special including two North or South Stand tickets and two scarves, $45 Southern Derby Rivalry Pack, a three-game ticket special with Lower Level Sideline seating to matches against Charleston (7/7), Charleston (8/4) and Charlotte (8/25). 
 
Wednesday, July 11 – NC Courage vs. Washington Spirit, 7 p.m., Wayback Wednesday presented by Ipreo 
$39 Wayback Ticket Pack, including two Lower Level Sideline tickets and two Wayback Courage t-shirts. 
 
Saturday, July 21 – NCFC vs. Toronto FC II, 7 p.m., presented by Capitol Broadcasting Company. Summer Camp Recognition.
$10 North Stand ticket offer for all local summer camps and families. More details to be announced soon
 
Saturday, July 28 – NCFC vs. Pittsburgh Riverhounds, 7 p.m., Faith & Family Night
Special t-shirt available for purchase, choir performances, $14 Lower Sideline ticket, $22 Lower sideline ticket with t-shirt. 
 
Additional details and game platforms will be announced soon and fans can visit the NC Courageand North Carolina FC schedule pages for more information and to purchase tickets. 
 
About North Carolina Football Club
North Carolina Football Club is the largest youth-to-professional soccer organization in the country, home to 14,000 players. The club is comprised of a women’s First Division team, North Carolina Courage (NWSL), a men’s Second Division team, North Carolina FC (USL), as well as a Premier Development League team, North Carolina FC U23 (USLPDL). The organization is also home to both Boys and Girls U.S. Soccer Development Academies in collaboration with NCFC Youth effectively creating a true pyramid from youth recreational all the way to the professional teams. The North Carolina Football Club is owned by local entrepreneur, Steve Malik, and managed by North Carolina native and longtime soccer executive Curt Johnson. North Carolina Football Club was established in 2016 to bring the highest levels of men’s and women’s professional soccer to the state. For more information, please visit www.www.northcarolinafc.com.
 

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CARY, N.C. (May 22, 2018) – North Carolina FC navigated past a skilled amateur team for the second time in the 2018 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. The team is moving on to the competition's fourth round following Tuesday’s third-round 4-1 victory over the Ocean City Nor’easters at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. 
 
Four different players scored in the win, including forward Marios Lomis and midfielder Austin da Luz, who each recorded assists as well. 
 
With the victory, NCFC is guaranteed a matchup with an MLS side in the fourth round of the Open Cup. That match will be played on either June 5 or June 6, with the opponent and venue to be announced on Thursday, May 24. 
 
“Great result,” NCFC head coach Colin Clarke said. “We’re moving on to the next round – that’s the main thing. Started out well, got our goal and then gave up a poor one. We settled, and at halftime, 2-1 up, it was just go get the next goal and go from there.”

Facing an Ocean City team that scored two goals within the opening seven minutes of its second-round upset win of the Charlotte Independence last week, NCFC knew getting off to a good start would be crucial. 
 
Clarke’s team did just that in the eighth minute when Lomis opened up the scoring with a nifty goal with the outside of his foot. 
 
Positioned out on the left flank, da Luz sent in a precise cross aimed for Lomis, who made a near-post run. With a deft redirect, Lomis sent the ball between the legs of Ocean City goalkeeper Alec Smir and into the net. 
 
Not long after, in the 17th minute, the Nor’easters responded with a goal of their own. After a scramble for the ball in the box, Ocean City’s Uros Ilic let loose on a shot that took a deflection before finding the back of the net. 
 
Not discouraged by Ocean City’s swift response, NCFC offered one of its own to retake the lead in the 25th minute, and it was da Luz doing the scoring on this occasion. 
 
After midfielder Bernhard Luxbacher gathered possession out wide to the right of the 18-yard box, da Luz snuck past the Ocean City back line and headed home Luxbacher’s cross to put NCFC ahead 2-1. 
 
Becoming increasingly settled defensively as the game progressed, NCFC took a one-goal lead into the halftime break. 

Looking to pad its lead, NCFC added a third goal in the 66th minute thanks to clever link-up play from midfielder Dre Fortune and Lomis. With a lot of room to work with in transition, da Luz offered a service to Fortune, who dummied and let the pass roll to Lomis. Lomis quickly returned the favor and Fortune finished from close range, scoring his first goal of the season to make it a 3-1 game. 
 
NCFC added one more goal for good measure in the 83rd minute, as forward Donovan Ewolo found himself in the right place at the right time. Making a run toward goal as right back D.J. Taylor fired a shot, Ewolo inadvertently redirected Taylor’s effort past Ocean City goalkeeper Alec Smir. The goal was Ewolo’s first for the club. 
 
Up Next: 
North Carolina FC will remain at home for a USL match against Atlanta United 2, reigniting a soccer rivalry between the two cities that dates back to 1998. NCFC will face Atlanta on Friday, May 25 at 7 p.m. at Sahlen's Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. Tickets are available online, over the phone at 919-459-8144 or in person at the Coastal Credit Union Box Office. The night will be Military Appreciation Night and will feature exclusive merchandise and ticket packages. Click here for more details.

Game Changer: 
While Fortune’s 66th-minute goal gave NCFC some breathing room, the swiftness of NCFC’s reply following Ocean City’s first-half equalizer was pivotal. Coming within eight minutes of Ilic’s goal for the Nor’easters, da Luz’ header zapped any momentum the visitors gained and settled NCFC down. 

Key Stat: 
NCFC has scored four-plus goals in four of its last five Open Cup wins dating back to 2016. 

They Said It: 
“It’s what it’s all about for this club right now. To showcase our ability to not only play at that level, but to put on a show in this stadium, in this town, and fill it up. And bring in fans who might not normally come out to games and show them what it’s all about.” – Austin da Luz on NCFC earning the opportunity to face an MLS opponent in the fourth round of the Open Cup.

Notes: 
–With the win, NCFC improved to 21-10 all time in the Open Cup. 
 
–NCFC has scored multiple first-half goals in three consecutive home matches. 

–Marios Lomis has now scored three goals in his last three games. 
 
–Through two Open Cup matches, Bernhard Luxbacher has one goal and one assist. 
 
–Both of Austin da Luz’s goals this season have been headers. 
 
–Michael Harrington, who won the 2012 Open Cup with Sporting Kansas City, made his first start in this year’s tournament, playing the first half before being replaced by Futty Danso. 

Box Score: 
NCFC (4-5-1):Austin Guerrero; Aaron Guillen, Michael Harrington (Futty Danso, 46’), Connor Tobin © , Steven Miller; Austin da Luz, Dre Fortune (Donovan Ewolo, 77’), Marcel Kandziora, Kyle Bekker, Bernhard Luxbacher (DJ Taylor, 73’); Marios Lomis
 
Subs not used: Alex Tambakis, Peabo Doue, Graham Smith, Cameron Steele

OC (4-4-1-1): Alec Smir; Uros Ilic, Samuel Jones ©, Williams N’Dah, Michael Barrow; Matteo Bennati, Liam Bennett (Simone Raiola, 72’), Kyle Gurrieri, Daniel Lasarte (Spencer Patton, 56’); Deri Corfe; Fredlin Mompremier (Jacob Labovitz, 80’)
 
Subs not used: James Brett, George Knight, Abdul Mansaray, Joseph Korb
 
Score:
NCFC: 4
OC: 1
 
Goals:
NCFC: Marios Lomis (Austin da Luz, 8’), Austin da Luz (Bernhard Luxbacher, 26’), Dre Fortune (Marios Lomis, 66’), Donovan Ewolo (DJ Taylor, 83’)
OC: Uros Ilic (unassisted, 17’)
 
Cautions:
NCFC: Dre Fortune 76’
OC: Uros Ilic 53’, Michael Barrow 58’, Jacob Labovitz 84’
 
Ejections:
NCFC: —
OC: —
 
Attendance: 1,778

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CARY, N.C. (May 22, 2018) – North Carolina FC navigated past a skilled amateur team for the second time in the 2018 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. The team is moving on to the competition’s fourth round following Tuesday’s third-round 4-1 victory over the Ocean City Nor’easters at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. 
 
Four different players scored in the win, including forward Marios Lomis and midfielder Austin da Luz, who each recorded assists as well. 
 
With the victory, NCFC is guaranteed a matchup with an MLS side in the fourth round of the Open Cup. That match will be played on either June 5 or June 6, with the opponent and venue to be announced on Thursday, May 24. 
 
“Great result,” NCFC head coach Colin Clarke said. “We’re moving on to the next round – that’s the main thing. Started out well, got our goal and then gave up a poor one. We settled, and at halftime, 2-1 up, it was just go get the next goal and go from there.”

Facing an Ocean City team that scored two goals within the opening seven minutes of its second-round upset win of the Charlotte Independence last week, NCFC knew getting off to a good start would be crucial. 
 
Clarke’s team did just that in the eighth minute when Lomis opened up the scoring with a nifty goal with the outside of his foot. 
 
Positioned out on the left flank, da Luz sent in a precise cross aimed for Lomis, who made a near-post run. With a deft redirect, Lomis sent the ball between the legs of Ocean City goalkeeper Alec Smir and into the net. 
 
Not long after, in the 17th minute, the Nor’easters responded with a goal of their own. After a scramble for the ball in the box, Ocean City’s Uros Ilic let loose on a shot that took a deflection before finding the back of the net. 
 
Not discouraged by Ocean City’s swift response, NCFC offered one of its own to retake the lead in the 25th minute, and it was da Luz doing the scoring on this occasion. 
 
After midfielder Bernhard Luxbacher gathered possession out wide to the right of the 18-yard box, da Luz snuck past the Ocean City back line and headed home Luxbacher’s cross to put NCFC ahead 2-1. 
 
Becoming increasingly settled defensively as the game progressed, NCFC took a one-goal lead into the halftime break. 

Looking to pad its lead, NCFC added a third goal in the 66th minute thanks to clever link-up play from midfielder Dre Fortune and Lomis. With a lot of room to work with in transition, da Luz offered a service to Fortune, who dummied and let the pass roll to Lomis. Lomis quickly returned the favor and Fortune finished from close range, scoring his first goal of the season to make it a 3-1 game. 
 
NCFC added one more goal for good measure in the 83rd minute, as forward Donovan Ewolo found himself in the right place at the right time. Making a run toward goal as right back D.J. Taylor fired a shot, Ewolo inadvertently redirected Taylor’s effort past Ocean City goalkeeper Alec Smir. The goal was Ewolo’s first for the club. 
 
Up Next: 
North Carolina FC will remain at home for a USL match against Atlanta United 2, reigniting a soccer rivalry between the two cities that dates back to 1998. NCFC will face Atlanta on Friday, May 25 at 7 p.m. at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. Tickets are available online, over the phone at 919-459-8144 or in person at the Coastal Credit Union Box Office. The night will be Military Appreciation Night and will feature exclusive merchandise and ticket packages. Click here for more details.

Game Changer: 
While Fortune’s 66th-minute goal gave NCFC some breathing room, the swiftness of NCFC’s reply following Ocean City’s first-half equalizer was pivotal. Coming within eight minutes of Ilic’s goal for the Nor’easters, da Luz’ header zapped any momentum the visitors gained and settled NCFC down. 

Key Stat: 
NCFC has scored four-plus goals in four of its last five Open Cup wins dating back to 2016. 

They Said It: 
“It’s what it’s all about for this club right now. To showcase our ability to not only play at that level, but to put on a show in this stadium, in this town, and fill it up. And bring in fans who might not normally come out to games and show them what it’s all about.” – Austin da Luz on NCFC earning the opportunity to face an MLS opponent in the fourth round of the Open Cup.

Notes: 
–With the win, NCFC improved to 21-10 all time in the Open Cup. 
 
–NCFC has scored multiple first-half goals in three consecutive home matches. 

–Marios Lomis has now scored three goals in his last three games. 
 
–Through two Open Cup matches, Bernhard Luxbacher has one goal and one assist. 
 
–Both of Austin da Luz’s goals this season have been headers. 
 
–Michael Harrington, who won the 2012 Open Cup with Sporting Kansas City, made his first start in this year’s tournament, playing the first half before being replaced by Futty Danso. 

Box Score: 
NCFC (4-5-1):Austin Guerrero; Aaron Guillen, Michael Harrington (Futty Danso, 46’), Connor Tobin © , Steven Miller; Austin da Luz, Dre Fortune (Donovan Ewolo, 77’), Marcel Kandziora, Kyle Bekker, Bernhard Luxbacher (DJ Taylor, 73’); Marios Lomis
 
Subs not used: Alex Tambakis, Peabo Doue, Graham Smith, Cameron Steele

OC (4-4-1-1): Alec Smir; Uros Ilic, Samuel Jones ©, Williams N’Dah, Michael Barrow; Matteo Bennati, Liam Bennett (Simone Raiola, 72’), Kyle Gurrieri, Daniel Lasarte (Spencer Patton, 56’); Deri Corfe; Fredlin Mompremier (Jacob Labovitz, 80’)
 
Subs not used: James Brett, George Knight, Abdul Mansaray, Joseph Korb
 
Score:
NCFC: 4
OC: 1
 
Goals:
NCFC: Marios Lomis (Austin da Luz, 8’), Austin da Luz (Bernhard Luxbacher, 26’), Dre Fortune (Marios Lomis, 66’), Donovan Ewolo (DJ Taylor, 83’)
OC: Uros Ilic (unassisted, 17’)
 
Cautions:
NCFC: Dre Fortune 76’
OC: Uros Ilic 53’, Michael Barrow 58’, Jacob Labovitz 84’
 
Ejections:
NCFC: —
OC: —
 
Attendance: 1,778

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CARY, N.C. (May 21, 2018) – North Carolina Football Club has revealed its full slate of events for Pride Week, which will run from June 14-23 and include two Pride Nights at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park as well as two meet-and-greet opportunities. 

Pride Week, which is sponsored by Credit Suisse, kicks off on Thursday, June 14, at 7:30 p.m., with celebrity bartending at London Bridge Pub in Raleigh. Players from both NCFC and the Courage will serve drinks, meet with fans, take pictures and sign autographs. 
 
Two days later, on June 16, the Courage return from a four-game road trip and host Pride Night against Utah Royals FC at 7 p.m. Special Pride merchandise will be available for purchase. 

On Thursday, June 21, the Boxcar Barcade in Raleigh will host Arcade For Pride at 6:30 p.m., which players from both NCFC and the Courage will attend to socialize and play games with fans. 

The festivities conclude on Saturday, June 23, when NCFC hosts Pride Night against Louisville City FC at 7 p.m. Like the Courage’s match against Royals FC, special Pride merchandise will be available for purchase. 

For the second year in a row, NCFC co-captain Austin da Luz is raising money for LGBTQ rights through his Playing For Pride fundraiser. A year ago, da Luz, the 2017 NASL Humanitarian of the Year, helped raise over $13,841 for the cause as he and other soccer players – from leagues of all levels, both men’s and women’s – made donations based on games played and other on-field contributions. 
 
This year, money raised will go to Athlete Ally, a nonprofit founded by Hudson Taylor, who’s organizational mission is to “end the rampant homophobia and transphobia in sport and to activate the athletic community to exercise their leadership to champion LGBTQ equality.” 

Other NCFC players involved with the fundraising campaign include: Connor Tobin, Steven Miller, Graham Smith, Austin Guerrero, George Marks, Kyle Bekker and Peabo Doue. Samantha Mewis, Lynn Williams, McCall Zerboni and Jessica McDonald of the Courage are all participating as well. 

Fans can also donate to the cause here.

Below is the full schedule of events for Pride Week: 

Pride Week Kickoff, London Bridge Pub, Thursday, June 14, 7:30 p.m. 

Pride Night, NC Courage vs. Utah Royals FC, Saturday, June 16, 7 p.m. 

Arcade For Pride, Boxcar Barcade, Thursday, June 21, 6:30 p.m. 
 
Pride Night, North Carolina FC vs. Louisville City FC, Saturday, June 23, 7 p.m. 

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CARY, N.C. (May 21, 2018) – North Carolina Football Club has revealed its full slate of events for Pride Week, which will run from June 14-23 and include two Pride Nights at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park as well as two meet-and-greet opportunities. 

Pride Week, which is sponsored by Credit Suisse, kicks off on Thursday, June 14, at 7:30 p.m., with celebrity bartending at London Bridge Pub in Raleigh. Players from both NCFC and the Courage will serve drinks, meet with fans, take pictures and sign autographs. 
 
Two days later, on June 16, the Courage return from a four-game road trip and host Pride Night against Utah Royals FC at 7 p.m. Special Pride merchandise will be available for purchase. 

On Thursday, June 21, the Boxcar Barcade in Raleigh will host Arcade For Pride at 6:30 p.m., which players from both NCFC and the Courage will attend to socialize and play games with fans. 

The festivities conclude on Saturday, June 23, when NCFC hosts Pride Night against Louisville City FC at 7 p.m. Like the Courage’s match against Royals FC, special Pride merchandise will be available for purchase. 

For the second year in a row, NCFC co-captain Austin da Luz is raising money for LGBTQ rights through his Playing For Pride fundraiser. A year ago, da Luz, the 2017 NASL Humanitarian of the Year, helped raise over $13,841 for the cause as he and other soccer players – from leagues of all levels, both men’s and women’s – made donations based on games played and other on-field contributions. 
 
This year, money raised will go to Athlete Ally, a nonprofit founded by Hudson Taylor, who’s organizational mission is to “end the rampant homophobia and transphobia in sport and to activate the athletic community to exercise their leadership to champion LGBTQ equality.” 

Other NCFC players involved with the fundraising campaign include: Connor Tobin, Steven Miller, Graham Smith, Austin Guerrero, George Marks, Kyle Bekker and Peabo Doue. Samantha Mewis, Lynn Williams, McCall Zerboni and Jessica McDonald of the Courage are all participating as well. 

Fans can also donate to the cause here.

Below is the full schedule of events for Pride Week: 

Pride Week Kickoff, London Bridge Pub, Thursday, June 14, 7:30 p.m. 

Pride Night, NC Courage vs. Utah Royals FC, Saturday, June 16, 7 p.m. 

Arcade For Pride, Boxcar Barcade, Thursday, June 21, 6:30 p.m. 
 
Pride Night, North Carolina FC vs. Louisville City FC, Saturday, June 23, 7 p.m. 

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CARY, N.C. (May 21, 2018) – North Carolina FC will look to keep it’s Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup run going against the Ocean City Nor’easters on Tuesday, May 22 at 7 p.m. at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. With both teams aiming to add to their respective Open Cup histories, the matchup presents another exciting game for NCFC.
 
A sound and professional 3-0 victory over Lansdowne Bhoys FC sent NCFC to the third round. Connor Tobin, who made his season debut, scored on his first touch of the game to put NCFC up 1-0. Marios Lomis and Bernhard Luxbacher also added goals for NCFC.
 
The home team will need to replicate that professional display against an Ocean City side that have its fair share of Open Cup upsets throughout the years – including a 3-1 victory over the Charlotte Independence last week. In total, the Nor’easters have upset six professional sides in their history. Notably, Ocean City advanced to the third round of the competition in 2013, where the side eventually fell 2-1 to MLS opponent Philadelphia Union.
 
The 2018 Ocean City roster is highlighted by several local connections. NCFC Youth Academy product and former NCFC U-23 player Alex Rose currently plays for Ocean City. He’s joined with fellow UNC-Chapel Hill teammates Alex Smir (Greensboro, N.C. native) and Sam Jones. Additionally, Campbell’s Matt Barrow also features for Ocean City.
 
Last Time Out:
North Carolina FC’s five-game unbeaten run was halted with a 4-1 loss to FC Cincinnati over the weekend. Marios Lomis scored NCFC’s goal off an assist from Kyle Bekker. The strike moved Lomis to three goals between all competitions this season and his second in as many matches. Bekker’s assist was his fifth of the season and his third-straight game recording an assist.
 
Players To Watch:
No. 31 Steven Miller
Miller is a former member of Ocean City, featuring with the PDL side from 2008-09 when the team was known as the Ocean City Barons. He made 23 appearances and scored eight goals with the team. Miller, who has scored big Open Cup goals for NCFC in the past, will look to continue that trend against his former club. This season, Miller has already logged one goal and one assist, while featuring in all eight of NCFC’s league contests.
 
No. 16 Kyle Gurrieri
Gurrieri, a New Jersey native, has come through the United States pipeline, playing with the U-14, U-15, and U-17 national teams throughout his development. After completing his freshman season at Syracuse, Gurrieri began playing for Nordvarmland FF, a team in the Swedish second division. Gurrieri has been big for Ocean City in the Open Cup already. His two early goals were ultimately the difference in his team’s 3-1 win over the Charlotte Independence in its Open Cup tie on Wednesday night.
 
Coming Up Next:
North Carolina FC will remain at home for a USL match against Atlanta United 2, reigniting a soccer rivalry between the two cities that dates back to 1995. NCFC will face Atlanta on Friday, May 25 at 7 p.m. at WakeMed Soccer Park. Tickets are available online, over the phone at 919-459-8144 or in person at the Coastal Credit Union Box Office. The night will be Military Appreciation Night and feature exclusive merchandise and ticket packages. Click here for more details.

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CARY, N.C. (May 21, 2018) – North Carolina FC will look to keep it’s Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup run going against the Ocean City Nor’easters on Tuesday, May 22 at 7 p.m. at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. With both teams aiming to add to their respective Open Cup histories, the matchup presents another exciting game for NCFC.
 
A sound and professional 3-0 victory over Lansdowne Bhoys FC sent NCFC to the third round. Connor Tobin, who made his season debut, scored on his first touch of the game to put NCFC up 1-0. Marios Lomis and Bernhard Luxbacher also added goals for NCFC.
 
The home team will need to replicate that professional display against an Ocean City side that have its fair share of Open Cup upsets throughout the years – including a 3-1 victory over the Charlotte Independence last week. In total, the Nor’easters have upset six professional sides in their history. Notably, Ocean City advanced to the third round of the competition in 2013, where the side eventually fell 2-1 to MLS opponent Philadelphia Union.
 
The 2018 Ocean City roster is highlighted by several local connections. NCFC Youth Academy product and former NCFC U-23 player Alex Rose currently plays for Ocean City. He’s joined with fellow UNC-Chapel Hill teammates Alex Smir (Greensboro, N.C. native) and Sam Jones. Additionally, Campbell’s Matt Barrow also features for Ocean City.
 
Last Time Out:
North Carolina FC’s five-game unbeaten run was halted with a 4-1 loss to FC Cincinnati over the weekend. Marios Lomis scored NCFC’s goal off an assist from Kyle Bekker. The strike moved Lomis to three goals between all competitions this season and his second in as many matches. Bekker’s assist was his fifth of the season and his third-straight game recording an assist.
 
Players To Watch:
No. 31 Steven Miller
Miller is a former member of Ocean City, featuring with the PDL side from 2008-09 when the team was known as the Ocean City Barons. He made 23 appearances and scored eight goals with the team. Miller, who has scored big Open Cup goals for NCFC in the past, will look to continue that trend against his former club. This season, Miller has already logged one goal and one assist, while featuring in all eight of NCFC’s league contests.
 
No. 16 Kyle Gurrieri
Gurrieri, a New Jersey native, has come through the United States pipeline, playing with the U-14, U-15, and U-17 national teams throughout his development. After completing his freshman season at Syracuse, Gurrieri began playing for Nordvarmland FF, a team in the Swedish second division. Gurrieri has been big for Ocean City in the Open Cup already. His two early goals were ultimately the difference in his team’s 3-1 win over the Charlotte Independence in its Open Cup tie on Wednesday night.
 
Coming Up Next:
North Carolina FC will remain at home for a USL match against Atlanta United 2, reigniting a soccer rivalry between the two cities that dates back to 1995. NCFC will face Atlanta on Friday, May 25 at 7 p.m. at WakeMed Soccer Park. Tickets are available online, over the phone at 919-459-8144 or in person at the Coastal Credit Union Box Office. The night will be Military Appreciation Night and feature exclusive merchandise and ticket packages. Click here for more details.

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