Recent News

CARY, N.C. (Feb. 5, 2020) – Triangle native and Celtic F.C. winger Manny Perez has joined North Carolina FC on loan for a second consecutive season, the club announced Wednesday. The transaction is pending league and federation approval, and no further details were disclosed, per club policy. 

Perez, 20, spent the 2019 season at NCFC, recording five assists in 23 matches across all competitions. Perez, of Garner, is an alumnus of the NCFC Youth Academy and played two seasons at N.C. State. 

“I’m really pleased that we’re able to get Manny back for season two with the club,” NCFC head coach Dave Sarachan said. “I felt that Manny really grew from the very beginning of the year to the end as a professional. He had some injuries that sort of set him back, but I think he’ll have a much better starting point leading into our season compared to a year ago. He has a lot of ability that will hopefully come out.”

Perez signed with the 50-time Scottish champions in January 2019, inking a deal for three and a half years with Celtic before remaining close to home and contributing to a 2019 NCFC squad that won 16 matches and reached the USL Championship Playoffs.

Named the U.S. Development Academy Player of the Year in 2016 in the East Conference, Perez has 12 caps on the international stage with the U.S. at the U-18, U-20 and U-23 levels. In October 2019, Perez scored on his U-23 debut in a 6-1 win over El Salvador. 

With Perez back in the fold, NCFC’s 2020 roster includes 13 returnees from last year’s squad. NCFC begins the 2020 USL Championship season at home against Louisville City FC on Saturday, March 7 at 2:30 p.m. at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. 

CARY, N.C. (Feb. 5, 2020) – Triangle native and Celtic F.C. winger Manny Perez has joined North Carolina FC on loan for a second consecutive season, the club announced Wednesday. The transaction is pending league and federation approval, and no further details were disclosed, per club policy. 

Perez, 20, spent the 2019 season at NCFC, recording five assists in 23 matches across all competitions. Perez, of Garner, is an alumnus of the NCFC Youth Academy and played two seasons at N.C. State. 

“I’m really pleased that we’re able to get Manny back for season two with the club,” NCFC head coach Dave Sarachan said. “I felt that Manny really grew from the very beginning of the year to the end as a professional. He had some injuries that sort of set him back, but I think he’ll have a much better starting point leading into our season compared to a year ago. He has a lot of ability that will hopefully come out.”

Perez signed with the 50-time Scottish champions in January 2019, inking a deal for three and a half years with Celtic before remaining close to home and contributing to a 2019 NCFC squad that won 16 matches and reached the USL Championship Playoffs.

Named the U.S. Development Academy Player of the Year in 2016 in the East Conference, Perez has 12 caps on the international stage with the U.S. at the U-18, U-20 and U-23 levels. In October 2019, Perez scored on his U-23 debut in a 6-1 win over El Salvador. 

With Perez back in the fold, NCFC’s 2020 roster includes 13 returnees from last year’s squad. NCFC begins the 2020 USL Championship season at home against Louisville City FC on Saturday, March 7 at 2:30 p.m. at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. 

From improvements to the stadium to different ticket plans to fresh faces on the field, here’s a look at what’s new with North Carolina Football Club in 2020! 

A New Hashtag: #WeAreNC 

• Coinciding with the start of preseason training camp, we unveiled a new hashtag on Monday: #WeAreNC. Watch the linked video and make sure to include #WeAreNC in all of your social media posts about NCFC to follow the conversation on our club as we embark on an exciting 2020 season. 

Exciting Additions to Gameday Experience

• Making gamedays more interactive than ever before, NCFC is adding an in-stadium host and DJ to engage fans, bringing excitement from pregame to postgame. Interested in being our DJ? Apply now by emailing info@https://www.northcarolinafc.com. 

• The in-stadium host, DJ and supporters groups will be featured regularly on a new and improved video board presentation system, which will include more sophisticated graphics and video capabilities thanks to a newly completed video and audio control room. 

WakeMed Soccer Park Upgrades: Improved Drainage, In-Stadium WiFi On the Way

• Already a first-class pitch, the field at WakeMed will become even better with a comprehensive renovation of the drainage system. The improvements will more than double the amount of piping, reducing the effect adverse weather has on the playing surface. 

• A new irrigation system has been put into place, allowing for the field to be watered at a 180-degree angle. As a result, the groundskeeping crew will be able to tend to the field by watering it during halftime – not just pregame. As a result, the pitch will remain slick from the start of a match to its ending, allowing for the ball to move with ease. 

• New seats have been installed in sections 101-110 and 301-310, while retractable seats have been added to the outside areas in front of the North and South suites. 

• Both the North and South suites have been updated with new carpeting and counters, as patrons will be able to socialize while enjoying the match with unimpeded views. 

• Fans at WakeMed will soon find it easier to connect to the Internet, as newly enhanced, full-stadium WiFi will soon be accessible for all spectators. 

• Also new is the addition of the Near Post Patio, located behind sections 101-04 on the West Concourse. It gives fans the chance to enjoy the company of each other, food trucks, concession and beer stands. There are also TVs showing the game broadcast, standing tables, umbrellas and tents for shade. 

Adding Fresh Faces to an Experienced Squad 

• While this year’s NCFC squad features 14 returnees from last year’s 16-win team, there are multiple arrivals expected to make an immediate impact for head coach Dave Sarachan’s team. 

• Bolstering what was a talented group in 2019, NCFC has brought in four experienced USL Championship veterans: Fuquay-Varina native Conor Donovan, Brazilian midfielder Pecka, Guinea international Hadji Barry and former first-round MLS SuperDraft pick Akeem Ward. 

• Donovan, a center back, attended N.C. State and was a first-round pick in the 2015 MLS SuperDraft. The former NCFC Youth Academy product captained Rio Grande Valley Toros 18 times in 2019. 

• Pecka, a defensive midfielder, developed as a youngster at Brazilian megaclub Flamengo and has played in the U.S. since 2011. Like Donovan, Pecka has MLS experience and served as captain at his previous club, San Antonio FC. 

• Barry, a forward who can also play at winger, was a first-round pick by Orlando City SC in the 2016 MLS SuperDraft and has been prolific throughout his career in the USL Championship, scoring 39 goals in 79 league matches. 

• Ward, a 24-year-old defender, was picked in the first round of the 2019 MLS SuperDraft by D.C. United and also played for Loudoun United and Birmingham Legion FC in 2019. 

• Also added to the group are rookies Daniele Proch (striker, Duke), Paulo Pita (goalkeeper, Marshall) and Malick Mbaye (defender Clemson), each of whom are coming off stellar collegiate careers. 

• On the coaching staff, Sarachan has tabbed the experienced Mike McGinty as an assistant coach. McGinty, a Wake Forest alumnus, has extensive experience with various U.S. youth national teams and also served as head coach at Saint Louis University from 2010-17.

Multiple Ways to Buy NCFC Tickets 

Getting tickets to NCFC matches has never been easier, and there are multiple options depending on what you are interested in. As always, call us at 919-459-8144 or email tickets@https://www.northcarolinafc.com for help in purchasing tickets. Additionally, we’re excited to announce the creation of a customer service manager position, which is expected to be filled soon to help improve your experience purchasing tickets from the club. 

• Season Ticket Membership: Ready for a season full of excitement? Secure your spot to all 17 home USL Championship matches by becoming a Season Ticket Member. Learn more here. 

• Spring Pack: Full of value and good deals, the Spring Pack allows you to pick four matches from our opening seven at home (March 7-May 30), with prices ranging from $60-112. 

• Single-Game Tickets: Do you have a certain game circled already? Visit www.NCFCtix.com to purchase tickets for a particular match through Ticketmaster. 

Changes Across the USL Championship 

• Over the offseason, Nashville SC joined MLS, while the rights to Ottawa Fury FC were sold to Miami FC, reuniting NCFC with its leaguemate from 2016-17. With those changes, the USL Championship Eastern Conference now has 17 clubs, which means NCFC will play a pair of opponents three times: Charlotte Independence and Loudoun United. 

• In the Western Conference, San Diego Loyal FC is preparing for its inaugural season under head coach Landon Donovan. 

 

From improvements to the stadium to different ticket plans to fresh faces on the field, here’s a look at what’s new with North Carolina Football Club in 2020! 

A New Hashtag: #WeAreNC 

• Coinciding with the start of preseason training camp, we unveiled a new hashtag on Monday: #WeAreNC. Watch the linked video and make sure to include #WeAreNC in all of your social media posts about NCFC to follow the conversation on our club as we embark on an exciting 2020 season. 

Exciting Additions to Gameday Experience

• Making gamedays more interactive than ever before, NCFC is adding an in-stadium host and DJ to engage fans, bringing excitement from pregame to postgame. Interested in being our DJ? Apply now by emailing info@https://www.northcarolinafc.com. 

• The in-stadium host, DJ and supporters groups will be featured regularly on a new and improved video board presentation system, which will include more sophisticated graphics and video capabilities thanks to a newly completed video and audio control room. 

WakeMed Soccer Park Upgrades: Improved Drainage, In-Stadium WiFi On the Way

• Already a first-class pitch, the field at WakeMed will become even better with a comprehensive renovation of the drainage system. The improvements will more than double the amount of piping, reducing the effect adverse weather has on the playing surface. 

• A new irrigation system has been put into place, allowing for the field to be watered at a 180-degree angle. As a result, the groundskeeping crew will be able to tend to the field by watering it during halftime – not just pregame. As a result, the pitch will remain slick from the start of a match to its ending, allowing for the ball to move with ease. 

• New seats have been installed in sections 101-110 and 301-310, while retractable seats have been added to the outside areas in front of the North and South suites. 

• Both the North and South suites have been updated with new carpeting and counters, as patrons will be able to socialize while enjoying the match with unimpeded views. 

• Fans at WakeMed will soon find it easier to connect to the Internet, as newly enhanced, full-stadium WiFi will soon be accessible for all spectators. 

• Also new is the addition of the Near Post Patio, located behind sections 101-04 on the West Concourse. It gives fans the chance to enjoy the company of each other, food trucks, concession and beer stands. There are also TVs showing the game broadcast, standing tables, umbrellas and tents for shade. 

Adding Fresh Faces to an Experienced Squad 

• While this year’s NCFC squad features 14 returnees from last year’s 16-win team, there are multiple arrivals expected to make an immediate impact for head coach Dave Sarachan’s team. 

• Bolstering what was a talented group in 2019, NCFC has brought in four experienced USL Championship veterans: Fuquay-Varina native Conor Donovan, Brazilian midfielder Pecka, Guinea international Hadji Barry and former first-round MLS SuperDraft pick Akeem Ward. 

• Donovan, a center back, attended N.C. State and was a first-round pick in the 2015 MLS SuperDraft. The former NCFC Youth Academy product captained Rio Grande Valley Toros 18 times in 2019. 

• Pecka, a defensive midfielder, developed as a youngster at Brazilian megaclub Flamengo and has played in the U.S. since 2011. Like Donovan, Pecka has MLS experience and served as captain at his previous club, San Antonio FC. 

• Barry, a forward who can also play at winger, was a first-round pick by Orlando City SC in the 2016 MLS SuperDraft and has been prolific throughout his career in the USL Championship, scoring 39 goals in 79 league matches. 

• Ward, a 24-year-old defender, was picked in the first round of the 2019 MLS SuperDraft by D.C. United and also played for Loudoun United and Birmingham Legion FC in 2019. 

• Also added to the group are rookies Daniele Proch (striker, Duke), Paulo Pita (goalkeeper, Marshall) and Malick Mbaye (defender Clemson), each of whom are coming off stellar collegiate careers. 

• On the coaching staff, Sarachan has tabbed the experienced Mike McGinty as an assistant coach. McGinty, a Wake Forest alumnus, has extensive experience with various U.S. youth national teams and also served as head coach at Saint Louis University from 2010-17.

Multiple Ways to Buy NCFC Tickets 

Getting tickets to NCFC matches has never been easier, and there are multiple options depending on what you are interested in. As always, call us at 919-459-8144 or email tickets@https://www.northcarolinafc.com for help in purchasing tickets. Additionally, we’re excited to announce the creation of a customer service manager position, which is expected to be filled soon to help improve your experience purchasing tickets from the club. 

• Season Ticket Membership: Ready for a season full of excitement? Secure your spot to all 17 home USL Championship matches by becoming a Season Ticket Member. Learn more here. 

• Spring Pack: Full of value and good deals, the Spring Pack allows you to pick four matches from our opening seven at home (March 7-May 30), with prices ranging from $60-112. 

• Single-Game Tickets: Do you have a certain game circled already? Visit www.NCFCtix.com to purchase tickets for a particular match through Ticketmaster. 

Changes Across the USL Championship 

• Over the offseason, Nashville SC joined MLS, while the rights to Ottawa Fury FC were sold to Miami FC, reuniting NCFC with its leaguemate from 2016-17. With those changes, the USL Championship Eastern Conference now has 17 clubs, which means NCFC will play a pair of opponents three times: Charlotte Independence and Loudoun United. 

• In the Western Conference, San Diego Loyal FC is preparing for its inaugural season under head coach Landon Donovan. 

 

2019 was a big year for Raleigh native DJ Taylor, who just completed his third season with North Carolina FC, his hometown club. 

The former NCFC Youth Academy standout starred at right back in head coach Dave Sarachan's first season in charge, recording one goal and six assists as he was named the team's Defensive Player of the Year. This past season, Taylor played more minutes (3,123) than any other NCFC player and appeared in 35 of the team’s 37 competitive matches across all competitions. 

Having re-signed with NCFC, Taylor said the team has some "some unfinished business to attend to" in 2020. 

2019 was a big year for Raleigh native DJ Taylor, who just completed his third season with North Carolina FC, his hometown club. 

The former NCFC Youth Academy standout starred at right back in head coach Dave Sarachan’s first season in charge, recording one goal and six assists as he was named the team’s Defensive Player of the Year. This past season, Taylor played more minutes (3,123) than any other NCFC player and appeared in 35 of the team’s 37 competitive matches across all competitions. 

Having re-signed with NCFC, Taylor said the team has some “some unfinished business to attend to” in 2020. 

CARY, N.C. (Jan. 17, 2020) – A continuation of North Carolina FC’s youth-to-pro pipeline, NCFC announced on Friday the signings of teenagers Adam Armour, Trace Alphin and Luke Hille to academy contracts ahead of the 2020 USL Championship season, pending league and federation approval. As part of the deal, each player will be available to train and play in first-team matches while maintaining their college eligibility.

Each members of the NCFC Youth Academy U-18/19 squad, Armour, Alphin and Hille will link up with head coach Dave Sarachan’s NCFC squad for preseason training, which begins on Monday, Feb. 3. 

“Development in our system here at NCFC is about trying to push players to the highest level,” Sarachan said. “When a player gets the opportunity to jump in day in and day out with full-time professionals, everything gets faster in terms of technique and thinking. For young players to experience that within our club, it’s a fantastic opportunity.”

Armour and Alphin, both aged 17, are returning for their second season with the NCFC first team, having spent 2019 on academy contracts. Hille, 16, is the 19th player all-time to sign an academy contract with the NCFC first team. 

Armour, a Cary native, is among the most promising youth players in the U.S., having played in 19 matches at the international level with the U.S. U-17 National Team, including an appearance at the 2019 FIFA U-17 World Cup. The skillful left back, who is verbally committed to Duke University, made his first appearance for NCFC in the team’s 2-1 exhibition win over Necaxa of Liga MX in March 2019. 

“As Adam begins his second go-around with us, the comfort level of being with pros every day and the expectations of what’s demanded every day means his starting point will be quite high,” Sarachan said.

Continuing the NCFC Youth Academy’s tradition of producing top-tier goalkeepers, Alphin was named to Sarachan’s matchday squad three times in 2019, including NCFC’s U.S. Open Cup match against New York City FC of Major League Soccer. Like Armour, Alphin plans to play collegiately at an in-state ACC school, having verbally pledged to Wake Forest University. 

“By the end, Trace really adjusted well to the speed and the power that comes with professional soccer,” Sarachan said. “I think his starting point coming into this year will be way higher than it was last year – physically, mentally and tactically.”

Both Alphin and Armour also appeared for NCFC U-23 in USL League Two action in 2019, continuing their development under head coach Tom Harris. 

A versatile playmaker, Hille can play in both the midfield and at forward. The Cary native has scored six goals in 11 matches for the NCFC U 18/19 squad during the 2019-20 season, and also carries a reputation for his defensive work rate. 

“I had gotten to see Luke over the past year with some of the teams he’s been a part of with our academy,” Sarachan said. “He’s a pretty mature young man. He’s got a good head on his shoulders, and physically, he’ll be very capable right away to keep up with the pace. He has a strong mentality as well, and he’s just got the profile of a young guy I feel can succeed early on.”

In the last five years, the NCFC Youth Academy has had 33 players called into youth national team camps, nine sign professional contracts with MLS clubs and over 100 commit to play at the college level. Three players from the 2019 NCFC U-23 squad were recently selected in the 2020 MLS SuperDraft, including first-round selection Jeremy Kelly, a product of the NCFC Youth Academy and the NCFC first team. 

“This is a tremendously important piece of our overall club structure,” said John Bradford, NCFC Youth Academy director and NCFC assistant coach. “It’s just the accepted way of how we do player development. We always want our top players to have the opportunity to be with the first team, and we truly believe we’re producing players who have professional soccer in their futures. For us to ease them in and manage their progress is the ideal scenario.” 

With just over seven weeks remaining until the start of the regular season, NCFC’s current squad includes forwards Robert Kristo and Hadji Barry; midfielders Ben Speas, Nazmi Albadawi, Steven Miller, Graham Smith, Pecka and Luke Hille; defenders Sam Brotherton, Alex Comsia, Caleb Duvernay, Conor Donovan, DJ Taylor and Adam Armour; and goalkeepers Alex Tambakis and Trace Alphin

NCFC opens up its 2020 campaign at home against Louisville City FC on Saturday, March 7 at 2:30 p.m. at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. Single-game tickets for the 2020 season will go on sale on Feb. 3.

CARY, N.C. (Jan. 17, 2020) – A continuation of North Carolina FC’s youth-to-pro pipeline, NCFC announced on Friday the signings of teenagers Adam Armour, Trace Alphin and Luke Hille to academy contracts ahead of the 2020 USL Championship season, pending league and federation approval. As part of the deal, each player will be available to train and play in first-team matches while maintaining their college eligibility.

Each members of the NCFC Youth Academy U-18/19 squad, Armour, Alphin and Hille will link up with head coach Dave Sarachan’s NCFC squad for preseason training, which begins on Monday, Feb. 3. 

“Development in our system here at NCFC is about trying to push players to the highest level,” Sarachan said. “When a player gets the opportunity to jump in day in and day out with full-time professionals, everything gets faster in terms of technique and thinking. For young players to experience that within our club, it’s a fantastic opportunity.”

Armour and Alphin, both aged 17, are returning for their second season with the NCFC first team, having spent 2019 on academy contracts. Hille, 16, is the 19th player all-time to sign an academy contract with the NCFC first team. 

Armour, a Cary native, is among the most promising youth players in the U.S., having played in 19 matches at the international level with the U.S. U-17 National Team, including an appearance at the 2019 FIFA U-17 World Cup. The skillful left back, who is verbally committed to Duke University, made his first appearance for NCFC in the team’s 2-1 exhibition win over Necaxa of Liga MX in March 2019. 

“As Adam begins his second go-around with us, the comfort level of being with pros every day and the expectations of what’s demanded every day means his starting point will be quite high,” Sarachan said.

Continuing the NCFC Youth Academy’s tradition of producing top-tier goalkeepers, Alphin was named to Sarachan’s matchday squad three times in 2019, including NCFC’s U.S. Open Cup match against New York City FC of Major League Soccer. Like Armour, Alphin plans to play collegiately at an in-state ACC school, having verbally pledged to Wake Forest University. 

“By the end, Trace really adjusted well to the speed and the power that comes with professional soccer,” Sarachan said. “I think his starting point coming into this year will be way higher than it was last year – physically, mentally and tactically.”

Both Alphin and Armour also appeared for NCFC U-23 in USL League Two action in 2019, continuing their development under head coach Tom Harris. 

A versatile playmaker, Hille can play in both the midfield and at forward. The Cary native has scored six goals in 11 matches for the NCFC U 18/19 squad during the 2019-20 season, and also carries a reputation for his defensive work rate. 

“I had gotten to see Luke over the past year with some of the teams he’s been a part of with our academy,” Sarachan said. “He’s a pretty mature young man. He’s got a good head on his shoulders, and physically, he’ll be very capable right away to keep up with the pace. He has a strong mentality as well, and he’s just got the profile of a young guy I feel can succeed early on.”

In the last five years, the NCFC Youth Academy has had 33 players called into youth national team camps, nine sign professional contracts with MLS clubs and over 100 commit to play at the college level. Three players from the 2019 NCFC U-23 squad were recently selected in the 2020 MLS SuperDraft, including first-round selection Jeremy Kelly, a product of the NCFC Youth Academy and the NCFC first team. 

“This is a tremendously important piece of our overall club structure,” said John Bradford, NCFC Youth Academy director and NCFC assistant coach. “It’s just the accepted way of how we do player development. We always want our top players to have the opportunity to be with the first team, and we truly believe we’re producing players who have professional soccer in their futures. For us to ease them in and manage their progress is the ideal scenario.” 

With just over seven weeks remaining until the start of the regular season, NCFC’s current squad includes forwards Robert Kristo and Hadji Barry; midfielders Ben Speas, Nazmi Albadawi, Steven Miller, Graham Smith, Pecka and Luke Hille; defenders Sam Brotherton, Alex Comsia, Caleb Duvernay, Conor Donovan, DJ Taylor and Adam Armour; and goalkeepers Alex Tambakis and Trace Alphin

NCFC opens up its 2020 campaign at home against Louisville City FC on Saturday, March 7 at 2:30 p.m. at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. Single-game tickets for the 2020 season will go on sale on Feb. 3.

Download the 2020 North Carolina FC schedule to your calendar

CARY, N.C. (Jan. 9, 2020) – North Carolina FC unveiled the entirety of its 2020 USL Championship schedule on Thursday, as the club will play 34 games over the course of a regular season that spans 224 days from March through October. 

As previously announced, NCFC for the second consecutive season will begin its campaign with a home match against Louisville City FC, as head coach Dave Sarachan’s team will host the defending Eastern Conference champions on Saturday, March 7 at 2:30 p.m. at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. In last year’s season opener, NCFC defeated Lou City 4-1. 

The match is the first of 17 home games and one of two in the month of March, as NCFC will also host Philadelphia Union II on Saturday, March 14 at 2:30 p.m. 

NCFC’s first away game of the season comes on March 21, as it travels to face the Tampa Bay Rowdies at Al Lang Stadium, where it recorded a 3-1 win last season. 

As revealed on Wednesday, two NCFC matches will be broadcast nationally as part of the USL’s rights agreement with ESPN. On Friday, April 3, NCFC’s home game against rival Charlotte Independence will air on ESPN Deportes at 7 p.m. 

NCFC’s regular-season home finale, a Friday night tilt against the Charleston Battery on Oct. 2, will be televised on ESPNews with a 7 p.m. kickoff. The last time NCFC played on ESPNews, it defeated the Tampa Bay Rowdies 4-2 in August 2019.

Outside of its first two matches of the season and its two nationally televised games, start times for NCFC's other 30 matches are to be determined. 

With an odd number of teams in the Eastern Conference in 2020, NCFC will play two opponents three times: Charlotte Independence and Loudoun United. 

Two of NCFC’s three matches against Charlotte will be played at WakeMed Soccer Park, with the first coming on Friday, April 2, and the second on Saturday, Sept. 19. NCFC’s lone visit to Matthews comes on Friday, June 12. Since 2015, NCFC is 6W-1L-1D in competitive matches against Charlotte, with a 24-6 goal differential. 

Meanwhile, NCFC will face second-year USL Championship club Loudoun United on the road twice and once at home. NCFC’s first trip to the D.C. United-affiliated club comes on Wednesday, May 13. Sarachan’s team then hosts Loudoun United on Saturday, June 27, before once again visiting Loudoun on Sunday, Aug. 30. 

NCFC’s longest homestand of the season comes in late April and early May, as the team will host Birmingham Legion FC on April 25, Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC on May 2 and Memphis 901 FC on May 9. Additionally, four of NCFC’s five games between May 30-June 27 come at home (5/30 vs. New York Red Bulls II; 6/6 vs. Hartford Athletic; 6/20 vs. Saint Louis FC; and 6/27 vs. Loudoun United). 

Sarachan’s group has a pair of three-game road trips, with one coming in May (5/13 at Loudoun United; 5/16 at Charleston Battery; and 5/23 at Indy Eleven) and the other in July (7/4 at Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC; 7/11 at Memphis 901 FC; and 7/18 at Hartford Athletic). 

NCFC closes out the regular season with the reverse fixture of its opener, as it travels to take on Lou City in the newly completed Lynn Family Stadium on Oct. 17. 

Following the conclusion of the regular season, the top 10 teams from both the Eastern and Western Conferences will qualify for the 2020 USL Championship Playoffs, which will open with the Eastern and Western Conference Wild Card Round on Wednesday, October 21. The Eastern and Western Conference Quarterfinals will then be held between October 24-25, the Eastern and Western Conference Semifinals between October 30-November 1 and the Eastern and Western Conference Finals between November 6-8.

The 2020 USL Championship Final to conclude the league’s 10th anniversary season will be held between November 12-16 and aired on an ESPN broadcast network.

With just under two months remaining until the season kicks off, NCFC continues to build its roster. The team’s current squad includes forwards Robert Kristo and Hadji Barry; midfielders Ben Speas, Nazmi Albadawi, Steven Miller, Graham Smith and Pecka; defenders Sam Brotherton, Alex Comsia, Caleb Duvernay and Conor Donovan; and goalkeeper Alex Tambakis. 

Season tickets for North Carolina FC’s 2020 season are on sale now. Click here to learn more about season tickets or call the Coastal Credit Union Box Office at 919-459-8144 to speak with a ticket representative.

North Carolina FC 2020 USL Championship Schedule 

Saturday, March 7, 2:30 p.m. – Louisville City FC 
Saturday, March 14, 2:30 p.m. – Philadelphia Union II 
Saturday, March 21, TBD – @ Tampa Bay Rowdies 

Friday, April 3, 7 p.m. – Charlotte Independence 
Saturday, April 11, TBD – @ Atlanta United 2 
Wednesday, April 15, TBD – @ Sporting Kansas City II 
Saturday, April 25, TBD – Birmingham Legion FC 

Saturday, May 2, TBD – Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC 
Saturday, May 9, TBD – Memphis 901 FC 
Wednesday, May 13, TBD – @ Loudoun United 
Saturday, May 16, TBD – @ Charleston Battery
Saturday, May 23, TBD – @ Indy Eleven 
Saturday, May 30, TBD – New York Red Bulls II

Saturday, June 6, TBD – Hartford Athletic 
Friday, June 12, TBD – @  Charlotte Independence 
Saturday, June 20, TBD – Saint Louis FC 
Saturday, June 27, TBD – Loudoun United 

Saturday, July 4, TBD – @ Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC 
Saturday, July 11, TBD – @ Memphis 901 FC 
Saturday, July 18, TBD – @ Hartford Athletic 
Saturday, July 25, TBD – Tampa Bay Rowdies 

Sunday, Aug. 2, TBD – @ New York Red Bulls II 
Thursday, Aug. 6, TBD – Indy Eleven 
Saturday, Aug. 15, TBD – Sporting Kansas City II 
Sunday, Aug. 23, TBD – @ Philadelphia Union II 
Sunday, Aug. 30, TBD – @ Loudoun United 

Saturday, Sept. 5, TBD – Atlanta United 2 
Friday, Sept. 11, TBD – @ Miami FC 
Saturday, Sept. 19, TBD – Charlotte Independence 
Wednesday, Sept. 23, TBD – Miami FC 
Saturday, Sept. 26, TBD – @ Saint Louis FC 

Friday, Oct. 2, 7 p.m. – Charleston Battery 
Saturday, Oct. 10, TBD – @ Birmingham Legion FC 
Saturday, Oct. 17, TBD – @Louisville City FC

Download the 2020 North Carolina FC schedule to your calendar

CARY, N.C. (Jan. 9, 2020) – North Carolina FC unveiled the entirety of its 2020 USL Championship schedule on Thursday, as the club will play 34 games over the course of a regular season that spans 224 days from March through October. 

As previously announced, NCFC for the second consecutive season will begin its campaign with a home match against Louisville City FC, as head coach Dave Sarachan’s team will host the defending Eastern Conference champions on Saturday, March 7 at 2:30 p.m. at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. In last year’s season opener, NCFC defeated Lou City 4-1. 

The match is the first of 17 home games and one of two in the month of March, as NCFC will also host Philadelphia Union II on Saturday, March 14 at 2:30 p.m. 

NCFC’s first away game of the season comes on March 21, as it travels to face the Tampa Bay Rowdies at Al Lang Stadium, where it recorded a 3-1 win last season. 

As revealed on Wednesday, two NCFC matches will be broadcast nationally as part of the USL’s rights agreement with ESPN. On Friday, April 3, NCFC’s home game against rival Charlotte Independence will air on ESPN Deportes at 7 p.m. 

NCFC’s regular-season home finale, a Friday night tilt against the Charleston Battery on Oct. 2, will be televised on ESPNews with a 7 p.m. kickoff. The last time NCFC played on ESPNews, it defeated the Tampa Bay Rowdies 4-2 in August 2019.

Outside of its first two matches of the season and its two nationally televised games, start times for NCFC’s other 30 matches are to be determined. 

With an odd number of teams in the Eastern Conference in 2020, NCFC will play two opponents three times: Charlotte Independence and Loudoun United. 

Two of NCFC’s three matches against Charlotte will be played at WakeMed Soccer Park, with the first coming on Friday, April 2, and the second on Saturday, Sept. 19. NCFC’s lone visit to Matthews comes on Friday, June 12. Since 2015, NCFC is 6W-1L-1D in competitive matches against Charlotte, with a 24-6 goal differential. 

Meanwhile, NCFC will face second-year USL Championship club Loudoun United on the road twice and once at home. NCFC’s first trip to the D.C. United-affiliated club comes on Wednesday, May 13. Sarachan’s team then hosts Loudoun United on Saturday, June 27, before once again visiting Loudoun on Sunday, Aug. 30. 

NCFC’s longest homestand of the season comes in late April and early May, as the team will host Birmingham Legion FC on April 25, Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC on May 2 and Memphis 901 FC on May 9. Additionally, four of NCFC’s five games between May 30-June 27 come at home (5/30 vs. New York Red Bulls II; 6/6 vs. Hartford Athletic; 6/20 vs. Saint Louis FC; and 6/27 vs. Loudoun United). 

Sarachan’s group has a pair of three-game road trips, with one coming in May (5/13 at Loudoun United; 5/16 at Charleston Battery; and 5/23 at Indy Eleven) and the other in July (7/4 at Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC; 7/11 at Memphis 901 FC; and 7/18 at Hartford Athletic). 

NCFC closes out the regular season with the reverse fixture of its opener, as it travels to take on Lou City in the newly completed Lynn Family Stadium on Oct. 17. 

Following the conclusion of the regular season, the top 10 teams from both the Eastern and Western Conferences will qualify for the 2020 USL Championship Playoffs, which will open with the Eastern and Western Conference Wild Card Round on Wednesday, October 21. The Eastern and Western Conference Quarterfinals will then be held between October 24-25, the Eastern and Western Conference Semifinals between October 30-November 1 and the Eastern and Western Conference Finals between November 6-8.

The 2020 USL Championship Final to conclude the league’s 10th anniversary season will be held between November 12-16 and aired on an ESPN broadcast network.

With just under two months remaining until the season kicks off, NCFC continues to build its roster. The team’s current squad includes forwards Robert Kristo and Hadji Barry; midfielders Ben Speas, Nazmi Albadawi, Steven Miller, Graham Smith and Pecka; defenders Sam Brotherton, Alex Comsia, Caleb Duvernay and Conor Donovan; and goalkeeper Alex Tambakis. 

Season tickets for North Carolina FC’s 2020 season are on sale now. Click here to learn more about season tickets or call the Coastal Credit Union Box Office at 919-459-8144 to speak with a ticket representative.

North Carolina FC 2020 USL Championship Schedule 

Saturday, March 7, 2:30 p.m. – Louisville City FC 
Saturday, March 14, 2:30 p.m. – Philadelphia Union II 
Saturday, March 21, TBD – @ Tampa Bay Rowdies 

Friday, April 3, 7 p.m. – Charlotte Independence 
Saturday, April 11, TBD – @ Atlanta United 2 
Wednesday, April 15, TBD – @ Sporting Kansas City II 
Saturday, April 25, TBD – Birmingham Legion FC 

Saturday, May 2, TBD – Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC 
Saturday, May 9, TBD – Memphis 901 FC 
Wednesday, May 13, TBD – @ Loudoun United 
Saturday, May 16, TBD – @ Charleston Battery
Saturday, May 23, TBD – @ Indy Eleven 
Saturday, May 30, TBD – New York Red Bulls II

Saturday, June 6, TBD – Hartford Athletic 
Friday, June 12, TBD – @  Charlotte Independence 
Saturday, June 20, TBD – Saint Louis FC 
Saturday, June 27, TBD – Loudoun United 

Saturday, July 4, TBD – @ Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC 
Saturday, July 11, TBD – @ Memphis 901 FC 
Saturday, July 18, TBD – @ Hartford Athletic 
Saturday, July 25, TBD – Tampa Bay Rowdies 

Sunday, Aug. 2, TBD – @ New York Red Bulls II 
Thursday, Aug. 6, TBD – Indy Eleven 
Saturday, Aug. 15, TBD – Sporting Kansas City II 
Sunday, Aug. 23, TBD – @ Philadelphia Union II 
Sunday, Aug. 30, TBD – @ Loudoun United 

Saturday, Sept. 5, TBD – Atlanta United 2 
Friday, Sept. 11, TBD – @ Miami FC 
Saturday, Sept. 19, TBD – Charlotte Independence 
Wednesday, Sept. 23, TBD – Miami FC 
Saturday, Sept. 26, TBD – @ Saint Louis FC 

Friday, Oct. 2, 7 p.m. – Charleston Battery 
Saturday, Oct. 10, TBD – @ Birmingham Legion FC 
Saturday, Oct. 17, TBD – @Louisville City FC

CARY, N.C. (Jan. 8, 2020)- The North Carolina Football Club is holding auditions for National Anthem singers for the North Carolina FC and North Carolina Courage 2020 season. The National Anthem is sung before each home match at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. Solo acts or groups are encouraged to audition.

All ages are welcome to submit an application. Instrumentalists can also apply. The audition order will be determined on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Those interested in the opportunity can apply by emailing a video or audio clip singing the National Anthem to info@https://www.northcarolinafc.com. Applications will be accepted through February 1st. Further instruction will be provided once the audition clip has been received.

###

CARY, N.C. (Jan. 8, 2020)- The North Carolina Football Club is holding auditions for National Anthem singers for the North Carolina FC and North Carolina Courage 2020 season. The National Anthem is sung before each home match at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. Solo acts or groups are encouraged to audition.

All ages are welcome to submit an application. Instrumentalists can also apply. The audition order will be determined on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Those interested in the opportunity can apply by emailing a video or audio clip singing the National Anthem to info@https://www.northcarolinafc.com. Applications will be accepted through February 1st. Further instruction will be provided once the audition clip has been received.

###

CARY, N.C. (Jan. 8, 2020) – Two of North Carolina FC’s matches against Southern Derby opponents will be broadcast nationally in 2020, as announced by the USL Championship on Wednesday. 

On Friday, April 3, NCFC’s home game against rival Charlotte Independence will air on ESPN Deportes at 7 p.m. The match is one of 10 USL Championship games to be broadcast on the Spanish-language network in 2020, as part of the USL’s new rights agreement with ESPN. 

NCFC’s final home game of the regular season, a Friday night tilt against the Charleston Battery on Oct. 2, will be televised on ESPNews with a 7 p.m. kickoff. The last time NCFC played on ESPNews, it defeated the Tampa Bay Rowdies 4-2 in August 2019.

Overall, 19 USL Championship regular-season matches will be broadcast on the ESPN family of networks, while more than 590 league matches will air on ESPN+, the industry-leading direct-to-consumer sports streaming platform. Additionally, the USL Championship Final will be televised on ESPN2. 

NCFC’s 2020 regular season begins on March 7, as the team hosts Louisville City FC. Season tickets are on sale now. Click here to learn more about season tickets or call the Coastal Credit Union Box Office at 919-459-8144 to speak with a ticket representative.

About USL
The United Soccer League (USL) is the largest professional soccer organization in North America, possessing nearly a decade of experience in bringing the world’s game to communities across the United States and Canada. Overseeing the USL Championship, USL League One, and USL League Two, the organization is built on a proven and recognized model in international football and counts more than 100 clubs in its membership.
 
Based in Tampa, Fla., the USL has grown over the past decade into a model organization with strong corporate partnerships, stable organizational leadership, and a dedicated staff that provides outstanding support to member clubs and outside partners. Sanctioned by the U.S. Soccer Federation and Canadian Soccer Association, the USL is #UnitedForSoccer, moving the game forward in the United States and Canada.
 
About ESPN
ESPN, the world’s leading sports entertainment enterprise, features more than 50 assets – eight  U.S. television networks, direct-to-consumer ESPN+, ESPN Radio, ESPN.com, ESPN International, ESPN The Magazine and more. ESPN is 80 percent owned by ABC, Inc. (an indirect subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company) and 20 percent by Hearst.

About ESPN+
ESPN+ is the leading direct-to-consumer sports streaming service from Disney’s Direct-to-Consumer and International (DTCI) segment and ESPN. Launched in April 2018, ESPN+ has grown quickly to 3.5 million subscribers in 18 months, offering fans thousands of live events, original programming not available on ESPN’s linear TV or digital networks, as well as premium editorial content. 
 
Programming on ESPN+ includes exclusive UFC and Top Rank boxing events, thousands of college sports events (including football and basketball) from more than a dozen sports at 20 conferences, hundreds of MLB and NHL games, top domestic and international soccer (Serie A, MLS, FA Cup, Bundesliga – beginning in 2020, EFL Championship and Carabao Cup, Eredivisie), Grand Slam tennis, international and domestic rugby and cricket, exclusive ESPN+ Original series, acclaimed studio shows and the full library of ESPN’s award-winning 30 for 30 films.
 
Fans subscribe to ESPN+ for just $4.99 a month (or $49.99 per year) through the ESPN App, (on mobile and connected devices), ESPN.com or ESPNplus.com. It is also available as part of a bundle offer that gives subscribers access to Disney+, Hulu (ad-supported), and ESPN+ — all for just $12.99/month.

CARY, N.C. (Jan. 8, 2020) – Two of North Carolina FC’s matches against Southern Derby opponents will be broadcast nationally in 2020, as announced by the USL Championship on Wednesday. 

On Friday, April 3, NCFC’s home game against rival Charlotte Independence will air on ESPN Deportes at 7 p.m. The match is one of 10 USL Championship games to be broadcast on the Spanish-language network in 2020, as part of the USL’s new rights agreement with ESPN. 

NCFC’s final home game of the regular season, a Friday night tilt against the Charleston Battery on Oct. 2, will be televised on ESPNews with a 7 p.m. kickoff. The last time NCFC played on ESPNews, it defeated the Tampa Bay Rowdies 4-2 in August 2019.

Overall, 19 USL Championship regular-season matches will be broadcast on the ESPN family of networks, while more than 590 league matches will air on ESPN+, the industry-leading direct-to-consumer sports streaming platform. Additionally, the USL Championship Final will be televised on ESPN2. 

NCFC’s 2020 regular season begins on March 7, as the team hosts Louisville City FC. Season tickets are on sale now. Click here to learn more about season tickets or call the Coastal Credit Union Box Office at 919-459-8144 to speak with a ticket representative.

About USL
The United Soccer League (USL) is the largest professional soccer organization in North America, possessing nearly a decade of experience in bringing the world’s game to communities across the United States and Canada. Overseeing the USL Championship, USL League One, and USL League Two, the organization is built on a proven and recognized model in international football and counts more than 100 clubs in its membership.
 
Based in Tampa, Fla., the USL has grown over the past decade into a model organization with strong corporate partnerships, stable organizational leadership, and a dedicated staff that provides outstanding support to member clubs and outside partners. Sanctioned by the U.S. Soccer Federation and Canadian Soccer Association, the USL is #UnitedForSoccer, moving the game forward in the United States and Canada.
 
About ESPN
ESPN, the world’s leading sports entertainment enterprise, features more than 50 assets – eight  U.S. television networks, direct-to-consumer ESPN+, ESPN Radio, ESPN.com, ESPN International, ESPN The Magazine and more. ESPN is 80 percent owned by ABC, Inc. (an indirect subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company) and 20 percent by Hearst.

About ESPN+
ESPN+ is the leading direct-to-consumer sports streaming service from Disney’s Direct-to-Consumer and International (DTCI) segment and ESPN. Launched in April 2018, ESPN+ has grown quickly to 3.5 million subscribers in 18 months, offering fans thousands of live events, original programming not available on ESPN’s linear TV or digital networks, as well as premium editorial content. 
 
Programming on ESPN+ includes exclusive UFC and Top Rank boxing events, thousands of college sports events (including football and basketball) from more than a dozen sports at 20 conferences, hundreds of MLB and NHL games, top domestic and international soccer (Serie A, MLS, FA Cup, Bundesliga – beginning in 2020, EFL Championship and Carabao Cup, Eredivisie), Grand Slam tennis, international and domestic rugby and cricket, exclusive ESPN+ Original series, acclaimed studio shows and the full library of ESPN’s award-winning 30 for 30 films.
 
Fans subscribe to ESPN+ for just $4.99 a month (or $49.99 per year) through the ESPN App, (on mobile and connected devices), ESPN.com or ESPNplus.com. It is also available as part of a bundle offer that gives subscribers access to Disney+, Hulu (ad-supported), and ESPN+ — all for just $12.99/month.

CARY, N.C. (Jan. 6, 2020) – For the second straight season, North Carolina FC will open its USL Championship campaign with a home match against Louisville City FC, as head coach Dave Sarachan’s team is set to host the defending Eastern Conference champions on Saturday, March 7, at 2:30 p.m. at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. 

Last year, NCFC kicked off the 2019 season with a 4-1 victory over Lou City in Sarachan’s first game as head coach. NCFC split the regular-season series with Lou City a season ago, with the home team winning each game. 

All time, NCFC is a stellar 8W-2L-3D in home openers. A season ago, NCFC matched a club record with 11 regular-season home wins, as the team finished with the third-best home form in the USL Championship (11W-1L-5D, 38 points). 

The entirety of NCFC's schedule will be released later this week. The 2020 season will be the 10th in USL Championship history. For more information on the league's full slate of home openers, visit www.USLChampionship.com

With just over two months remaining until the season kicks off, NCFC continues to build its roster. The team’s current squad includes forwards Robert Kristo and Hadji Barry; midfielders Ben Speas, Nazmi Albadawi, Steven Miller, Graham Smith and Pecka; defenders Sam Brotherton, Alex Comsia, Caleb Duvernay and Conor Donovan; and goalkeeper Alex Tambakis. 

Season tickets for North Carolina FC’s 2020 season are on sale now. Click here to learn more about season tickets or call the Coastal Credit Union Box Office at 919-459-8144 to speak with a ticket representative.

CARY, N.C. (Jan. 6, 2020) – For the second straight season, North Carolina FC will open its USL Championship campaign with a home match against Louisville City FC, as head coach Dave Sarachan’s team is set to host the defending Eastern Conference champions on Saturday, March 7, at 2:30 p.m. at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. 

Last year, NCFC kicked off the 2019 season with a 4-1 victory over Lou City in Sarachan’s first game as head coach. NCFC split the regular-season series with Lou City a season ago, with the home team winning each game. 

All time, NCFC is a stellar 8W-2L-3D in home openers. A season ago, NCFC matched a club record with 11 regular-season home wins, as the team finished with the third-best home form in the USL Championship (11W-1L-5D, 38 points). 

The entirety of NCFC’s schedule will be released later this week. The 2020 season will be the 10th in USL Championship history. For more information on the league’s full slate of home openers, visit www.USLChampionship.com

With just over two months remaining until the season kicks off, NCFC continues to build its roster. The team’s current squad includes forwards Robert Kristo and Hadji Barry; midfielders Ben Speas, Nazmi Albadawi, Steven Miller, Graham Smith and Pecka; defenders Sam Brotherton, Alex Comsia, Caleb Duvernay and Conor Donovan; and goalkeeper Alex Tambakis. 

Season tickets for North Carolina FC’s 2020 season are on sale now. Click here to learn more about season tickets or call the Coastal Credit Union Box Office at 919-459-8144 to speak with a ticket representative.

CARY, N.C. (Jan. 6, 2020) – DJ Taylor, a Raleigh native and product of the North Carolina FC Youth Academy, has signed a new contract to return for his fourth consecutive season with NCFC, the club announced Monday. The transaction is pending league and federation approval, and no further details were disclosed, per club policy. 

Taylor, 22, is entering his fifth season at the pro ranks and is coming off a career season in 2019 at right back under NCFC head coach Dave Sarachan. Named NCFC’s Defensive Player of the Year, Taylor led the team in minutes played, logging 3,123 minutes across all competitions as he made 37 appearances and 35 starts, scored one goal and recorded six assists in 2019. 

“We’re very pleased to have DJ returning to us,” Sarachan said. “He amassed the most minutes of anybody on our team, which tells you a lot about him – not only from a soccer sense but from a physical sense in terms of how he prepares and takes care of himself. DJ showed a lot of progress in terms of being more aggressive getting forward and understanding the relationships he’s built with other defenders on our backline. He’s becoming more of a complete player.”

The athletic and quick-thinking Taylor proved to be a versatile weapon for Sarachan’s team last season, as he made substantial contributions both offensively and defensively. Taylor’s 33 chances created ranked fourth on NCFC and were the most by a defender, while he led the team in tackles (59) and tackles won (39) while finishing second in interceptions (33) to help NCFC record its best defensive record (1.09 goals allowed per match) since 2011. 

A leading example of NCFC’s youth-to-pro movement, Taylor signed an academy contract with the NCFC first team in 2015 at the age of 17, becoming the second player from the NCFC Academy to do so. 

After playing abroad with CF Torre Levante of the Tercera Division in Spain from 2015-2016, Taylor returned to the club he grew up with in 2017. Following an impressive showing in NCFC’s midseason friendly against Swansea City AFC of the English Premier League, Taylor signed a contract through the 2017 season and appeared in two matches. 

The 2018 season saw Taylor become a mainstay in the NCFC lineup, as he played in 32 USL Championship matches for 2,742 minutes, making 31 starts. Under Sarachan, Taylor became one of NCFC’s most reliable players in 2019, appearing in 37 of the team’s 38 competitive matches. As part of Taylor’s evolution as a player, the 5’9” outside back became increasingly involved in NCFC’s attack and notched his first professional goal in the group’s 1-0 win over the Florida Soccer Soldiers in the third round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. 

Across all competitions, Taylor has played in 74 matches, made 71 starts, scored one goal and recorded six assists over 6,225 minutes of action for NCFC since 2017. 

Taylor joins Steven Miller, Ben Speas, Nazmi Albadawi, Sam Brotherton, Alex Comsia, Caleb Duvernay, Robert Kristo, Graham Smith, Conor Donovan, Pecka, Hadji Barry and Alex Tambakis on the list of players confirmed for the 2020 season, as the club continues to negotiate with additional players.

Season tickets for North Carolina FC’s 2020 season are on sale now. Click here to learn more about season tickets or call the Coastal Credit Union Box Office at 919-459-8144 to speak with a ticket representative.

CARY, N.C. (Jan. 6, 2020) – DJ Taylor, a Raleigh native and product of the North Carolina FC Youth Academy, has signed a new contract to return for his fourth consecutive season with NCFC, the club announced Monday. The transaction is pending league and federation approval, and no further details were disclosed, per club policy. 

Taylor, 22, is entering his fifth season at the pro ranks and is coming off a career season in 2019 at right back under NCFC head coach Dave Sarachan. Named NCFC’s Defensive Player of the Year, Taylor led the team in minutes played, logging 3,123 minutes across all competitions as he made 37 appearances and 35 starts, scored one goal and recorded six assists in 2019. 

“We’re very pleased to have DJ returning to us,” Sarachan said. “He amassed the most minutes of anybody on our team, which tells you a lot about him – not only from a soccer sense but from a physical sense in terms of how he prepares and takes care of himself. DJ showed a lot of progress in terms of being more aggressive getting forward and understanding the relationships he’s built with other defenders on our backline. He’s becoming more of a complete player.”

The athletic and quick-thinking Taylor proved to be a versatile weapon for Sarachan’s team last season, as he made substantial contributions both offensively and defensively. Taylor’s 33 chances created ranked fourth on NCFC and were the most by a defender, while he led the team in tackles (59) and tackles won (39) while finishing second in interceptions (33) to help NCFC record its best defensive record (1.09 goals allowed per match) since 2011. 

A leading example of NCFC’s youth-to-pro movement, Taylor signed an academy contract with the NCFC first team in 2015 at the age of 17, becoming the second player from the NCFC Academy to do so. 

After playing abroad with CF Torre Levante of the Tercera Division in Spain from 2015-2016, Taylor returned to the club he grew up with in 2017. Following an impressive showing in NCFC’s midseason friendly against Swansea City AFC of the English Premier League, Taylor signed a contract through the 2017 season and appeared in two matches. 

The 2018 season saw Taylor become a mainstay in the NCFC lineup, as he played in 32 USL Championship matches for 2,742 minutes, making 31 starts. Under Sarachan, Taylor became one of NCFC’s most reliable players in 2019, appearing in 37 of the team’s 38 competitive matches. As part of Taylor’s evolution as a player, the 5’9” outside back became increasingly involved in NCFC’s attack and notched his first professional goal in the group’s 1-0 win over the Florida Soccer Soldiers in the third round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. 

Across all competitions, Taylor has played in 74 matches, made 71 starts, scored one goal and recorded six assists over 6,225 minutes of action for NCFC since 2017. 

Taylor joins Steven Miller, Ben Speas, Nazmi Albadawi, Sam Brotherton, Alex Comsia, Caleb Duvernay, Robert Kristo, Graham Smith, Conor Donovan, Pecka, Hadji Barry and Alex Tambakis on the list of players confirmed for the 2020 season, as the club continues to negotiate with additional players.

Season tickets for North Carolina FC’s 2020 season are on sale now. Click here to learn more about season tickets or call the Coastal Credit Union Box Office at 919-459-8144 to speak with a ticket representative.