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NCFC U-23 to Host Open Tryouts

CARY, N.C. (April 16, 2018)– North Carolina FC U-23 (NCFC U-23) of the Premier Development League (PDL) will hold open tryouts on Wednesday, April 25 and Thursday, April 26 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. each night on Field 3 at WakeMed Soccer Park.

Tryouts are open to soccer players aged 18 to 23 years old. Head coach Dewan Bader and his staff will evaluate players in advance of the PDL season which begins in May.

Bader, who also serves as assistant coach for the North Carolina FC USL team, guided the U-23s to three consecutive Region III titles (2011-2013) and two National Championships (2011, 2013) while competing in the USASA U-23 Men’s Cup. Joining him will be longtime U-23 coaches Luis Satorra and Rick King, as well as Zack Schilawski.

Under Bader’s guidance, the U-23s have produced several standouts who went on to have successful professional careers including: current NCFC players Futty Danso and Cameron Steele, as well as, Michael Grella, Enzo Martinez, Ike Opara, Zack Schilawski, Brian Shriver, Billy Schuler, Akira Fitzgerald, Nazmi Albadawi, and Conor Donovan.

Registration is $125 and includes a ticket to the North Carolina FC match against Penn FC on Saturday, April 28 at 7 p.m. at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park.

Click here to register. (Once registered, please email webmaster@https://www.northcarolinafc.com to confirm your attendance.)

The PDL is a part of the United Soccer Leagues, which also operates the Division II USL, the new USL Division III and Super Y League and has served as the proven stepping-stone for aspiring professionals.

 

WHO: North Carolina FC U-23

WHAT: Open Tryouts

WHEN: Wednesday, April 25 and Thursday, April 26 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

WHERE: WakeMed Soccer Park, 101 Soccer Park Drive, Cary, NC 27511

REGISTRATION: $125 – Click Here

WHO CAN PARTICIPATE: Soccer players aged 18 to 23.

###

CARY, N.C. (April 16, 2018)– North Carolina FC U-23 (NCFC U-23) of the Premier Development League (PDL) will hold open tryouts on Wednesday, April 25 and Thursday, April 26 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. each night on Field 3 at WakeMed Soccer Park.

Tryouts are open to soccer players aged 18 to 23 years old. Head coach Dewan Bader and his staff will evaluate players in advance of the PDL season which begins in May.

Bader, who also serves as assistant coach for the North Carolina FC USL team, guided the U-23s to three consecutive Region III titles (2011-2013) and two National Championships (2011, 2013) while competing in the USASA U-23 Men’s Cup. Joining him will be longtime U-23 coaches Luis Satorra and Rick King, as well as Zack Schilawski.

Under Bader’s guidance, the U-23s have produced several standouts who went on to have successful professional careers including: current NCFC players Futty Danso and Cameron Steele, as well as, Michael Grella, Enzo Martinez, Ike Opara, Zack Schilawski, Brian Shriver, Billy Schuler, Akira Fitzgerald, Nazmi Albadawi, and Conor Donovan.

Registration is $125 and includes a ticket to the North Carolina FC match against Penn FC on Saturday, April 28 at 7 p.m. at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park.

Click here to register. (Once registered, please email webmaster@https://www.northcarolinafc.com to confirm your attendance.)

The PDL is a part of the United Soccer Leagues, which also operates the Division II USL, the new USL Division III and Super Y League and has served as the proven stepping-stone for aspiring professionals.

 

WHO: North Carolina FC U-23

WHAT: Open Tryouts

WHEN: Wednesday, April 25 and Thursday, April 26 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

WHERE: WakeMed Soccer Park, 101 Soccer Park Drive, Cary, NC 27511

REGISTRATION: $125 – Click Here

WHO CAN PARTICIPATE: Soccer players aged 18 to 23.

###

North Carolina native Ike Opara Called In to USMNT January Camp

With a focus on the future, acting U.S. Men’s National Team head coach Dave Sarachan has called 30 players for the USA’s annual January Camp. Players will report Jan. 10 to the National Training Center in Carson, California.

North Carolina native, Ike Opara, was included among the 30-player roster, marking his first senior national team call up. The defender played youth soccer with TFCA (now NCFC Youth) and featured for the club’s U-23 team from 2008-2009 while attending Wake Forest University.

The Durham, N.C., native wrapped up an impressive season with Sporting Kansas City where he earned MLS Best XI and 2017 MLS Defender of the Year honors. Opara has previously represented his country at the 2009 FIFA U-20 World Cup and the  2012 U-23 CONCACAF Olympic Qualifying Tournament.

“I’m very happy for Ike getting his first call in with the senior national team,” said NCFC Assistant Coach and NCFC U-23 Head Coach Dewan Bader. “It’s a great honor to represent the U.S. and be recognized as the MLS Defender of the Year, even more so after dealing with some adversity and injuries along the way.”

Some of the USA’s most promising young prospects are expected to be on display in the friendly against Bosnia and Herzegovina on Jan. 28 at the StubHub Center in Carson. Kickoff is set for 9:30 p.m. ET, and the match will be broadcast live on FS1 and UniMas. Fans can also follow U.S. Soccer’s official Facebook, Twitter (@ussoccer_mnt) and Instagram (@ussoccer_mnt) accounts.

“We’re excited about our 2018 January Camp roster. It’s all about the future and opportunity,” said Sarachan in a press release via U.S. Soccer. “We clearly feel that we want to have a look at these players that have the chance to be a part of the National Team for a number of years to come. It’s a long journey forward, but this is the first step starting in 2018 for the program and for these players to now get experience at this level.”

U.S. ROSTER BY POSITION (Club; Caps/Goals):

GOALKEEPERS (4): Alex Bono (Toronto FC/CAN; 0/0), Bill Hamid (Midtjylland/DEN; 4/0), Cody Cropper (New England Revolution; 0/0), Zack Steffen (Columbus Crew SC; 0/0)

DEFENDERS (9): Danny Acosta (Real Salt Lake; 0/0), Justen Glad (Real Salt Lake; 0/0), Nick Lima (San Jose Earthquakes; 0/0), Justin Morrow (Toronto FC/CAN; 3/0), Ike Opara (Sporting Kansas City; 0/0), Tim Parker (Vancouver Whitecaps FC/CAN; 0/0), Matt Polster (Chicago Fire; 0/0), Brandon Vincent (Chicago Fire; 1/0), Walker Zimmerman (Los Angeles Football Club; 1/0)

MIDFIELDERS (11): Tyler Adams (New York Red Bulls; 1/0), Paul Arriola (D.C. United; 15/2), Russell Canouse (D.C. United; 0/0), Marky Delgado (Toronto FC/CAN; 0/0), Marlon Hairston (Colorado Rapids; 0/0), Ian Harkes (D.C. United; 0/0), Brooks Lennon (Real Salt Lake; 0/0), Cristian Roldan (Seattle Sounders FC; 1/0), Kelyn Rowe (New England Revolution; 3/1), Wil Trapp (Columbus Crew SC; 2/0), Gyasi Zardes (LA Galaxy; 37/6)

FORWARDS (6): Juan Agudelo (New England Revolution; 27/3), Dom Dwyer (Orlando City SC; 4/2), Jordan Morris (Seattle Sounders FC; 24/5), Christian Ramirez (Minnesota United FC; 0/0), Rubio Rubin (Unattached; 4/0), CJ Sapong (Philadelphia Union; 3/0)

With a focus on the future, acting U.S. Men’s National Team head coach Dave Sarachan has called 30 players for the USA’s annual January Camp. Players will report Jan. 10 to the National Training Center in Carson, California.

North Carolina native, Ike Opara, was included among the 30-player roster, marking his first senior national team call up. The defender played youth soccer with TFCA (now NCFC Youth) and featured for the club’s U-23 team from 2008-2009 while attending Wake Forest University.

The Durham, N.C., native wrapped up an impressive season with Sporting Kansas City where he earned MLS Best XI and 2017 MLS Defender of the Year honors. Opara has previously represented his country at the 2009 FIFA U-20 World Cup and the  2012 U-23 CONCACAF Olympic Qualifying Tournament.

“I’m very happy for Ike getting his first call in with the senior national team,” said NCFC Assistant Coach and NCFC U-23 Head Coach Dewan Bader. “It’s a great honor to represent the U.S. and be recognized as the MLS Defender of the Year, even more so after dealing with some adversity and injuries along the way.”

Some of the USA’s most promising young prospects are expected to be on display in the friendly against Bosnia and Herzegovina on Jan. 28 at the StubHub Center in Carson. Kickoff is set for 9:30 p.m. ET, and the match will be broadcast live on FS1 and UniMas. Fans can also follow U.S. Soccer’s official Facebook, Twitter (@ussoccer_mnt) and Instagram (@ussoccer_mnt) accounts.

“We’re excited about our 2018 January Camp roster. It’s all about the future and opportunity,” said Sarachan in a press release via U.S. Soccer. “We clearly feel that we want to have a look at these players that have the chance to be a part of the National Team for a number of years to come. It’s a long journey forward, but this is the first step starting in 2018 for the program and for these players to now get experience at this level.”

U.S. ROSTER BY POSITION (Club; Caps/Goals):

GOALKEEPERS (4): Alex Bono (Toronto FC/CAN; 0/0), Bill Hamid (Midtjylland/DEN; 4/0), Cody Cropper (New England Revolution; 0/0), Zack Steffen (Columbus Crew SC; 0/0)

DEFENDERS (9): Danny Acosta (Real Salt Lake; 0/0), Justen Glad (Real Salt Lake; 0/0), Nick Lima (San Jose Earthquakes; 0/0), Justin Morrow (Toronto FC/CAN; 3/0), Ike Opara (Sporting Kansas City; 0/0), Tim Parker (Vancouver Whitecaps FC/CAN; 0/0), Matt Polster (Chicago Fire; 0/0), Brandon Vincent (Chicago Fire; 1/0), Walker Zimmerman (Los Angeles Football Club; 1/0)

MIDFIELDERS (11): Tyler Adams (New York Red Bulls; 1/0), Paul Arriola (D.C. United; 15/2), Russell Canouse (D.C. United; 0/0), Marky Delgado (Toronto FC/CAN; 0/0), Marlon Hairston (Colorado Rapids; 0/0), Ian Harkes (D.C. United; 0/0), Brooks Lennon (Real Salt Lake; 0/0), Cristian Roldan (Seattle Sounders FC; 1/0), Kelyn Rowe (New England Revolution; 3/1), Wil Trapp (Columbus Crew SC; 2/0), Gyasi Zardes (LA Galaxy; 37/6)

FORWARDS (6): Juan Agudelo (New England Revolution; 27/3), Dom Dwyer (Orlando City SC; 4/2), Jordan Morris (Seattle Sounders FC; 24/5), Christian Ramirez (Minnesota United FC; 0/0), Rubio Rubin (Unattached; 4/0), CJ Sapong (Philadelphia Union; 3/0)

NORTH CAROLINA FC COLLEGE ROUND UP: NCAA SELECTIONS

The North Carolina Football Club has over 90 soccer players with ties to the club’s NCFC Youth Academy or North Carolina FC U23 team taking part in men’s college soccer this season. The conference tournaments have wrapped up and the NCAA has selected the final 48 teams in the D-I Men’s Tournament. Overall, seven college teams that have players from NCFC Youth Academy or NCFC U23 qualified for the tournament and will compete for a national title.

Wake Forest Claims No. 1 Overall Seed

Hank Gauger (NCFC Youth Academy) and the No. 1 Wake Forest Demon Deacons will enter the tournament as the No. 1 overall seed. The group has been the class of the NCAA this season, and claimed its first major trophy of the year by winning the ACC Championship on PKs over Virginia. Wake earned a first-round bye and will host a second-round match between the winner of William and Mary and Columbia. The match will take place on Sunday, Nov. 19 at 5 p.m. at Spry Soccer Stadium in Winston-Salem, N.C.

UNC Faces Second-Round Battle at WakeMed Soccer Park

UNC earned the No. 3 overall seed in the tournament after a stellar regular season. The Tar Heels will take on the winner between UNC Wilmington and Presbyterian. The second-round match will be played Sunday, Nov. 19 at 7 p.m. at WakeMed Soccer Park. NCFC’s venue will be home to plenty of postseason action this weekend, as the park will also host three matches in the NCAA Women’s Soccer Tournament.

Duke Readies for NCAA Second Round

Duke is back in the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 2011. The squad used a strong regular season to earn the No. 6 overall seed in the tournament. Duke will host the winner of FIU and Omaha in the second round on Sunday, Nov. 19 at 6 p.m. at Koskinen Stadium.

UNC Wilmington to Host Presbyterian in NCAA First Round

Boasting 10 Academy graduates on its roster, UNC Wilmington is set to host a first-round NCAA Tournament match against first-time qualifier Presbyterian. The Seahawks had a strong season to earn an at-large bid and the right to host a first-round match. UNCW will welcome Presbyterian to UNCW Soccer Stadium on Thursday, Nov. 16 at 7 p.m. The winner will advance to face UNC at WakeMed Soccer Park in Cary.

NC State Set for NCAA Journey

It was a long wait for Wolfpack fans watching the NCAA selection show, but it was well worth it when the last possible spot showed “NC State” on the screen. NC State is back in the NCAA Tournament for first time since 2009 and will face a visit to Old Dominion. The Wolfpack ended a seven-year NCAA drought and has proven to be a dangerous team with the ability to beat anyone. NC State will travel to Norfolk, Va., to face Old Dominion on Thursday, Nov. 16 at the ODU Soccer Complex.

Asefnia, UMass Qualify for NCAA Tournament

Bardia Asefnia (NCFC Youth Academy and NCFC U23) has helped lead UMass to the NCAA Tournament. The Minutemen picked up an automatic bid after winning the Atlantic 10 Tournament. Umass will host a first-round matchup against Colgate on Thursday, Nov. 16 at 1 p.m. at Rudd Field. The Raleigh native is having a great season between the posts, earning five shutouts while posting a 0.92 GAA.

Conger’s Georgetown Set for NCAA Second Round

Witt Conger (NCFC Youth Academy) is waiting patiently for his chance at Georgetown, and the true freshman seems to be inheriting a good system. The Hoyas had another successful season and earned the No. 14 overall seed in the tournament. Georgetown will face SMU or Central Arkansas in the second round on Nov. 19, at 1 p.m. at Shaw Field.

Additional Notes:

NCFC has several other Academy and U23 players competing in postseason tournaments across three other divisions of college soccer. Stay tuned to https://www.northcarolinafc.com for more information regarding how all our college athletes do in postseason play.

The North Carolina Football Club has over 90 soccer players with ties to the club’s NCFC Youth Academy or North Carolina FC U23 team taking part in men’s college soccer this season. The conference tournaments have wrapped up and the NCAA has selected the final 48 teams in the D-I Men’s Tournament. Overall, seven college teams that have players from NCFC Youth Academy or NCFC U23 qualified for the tournament and will compete for a national title.

Wake Forest Claims No. 1 Overall Seed

Hank Gauger (NCFC Youth Academy) and the No. 1 Wake Forest Demon Deacons will enter the tournament as the No. 1 overall seed. The group has been the class of the NCAA this season, and claimed its first major trophy of the year by winning the ACC Championship on PKs over Virginia. Wake earned a first-round bye and will host a second-round match between the winner of William and Mary and Columbia. The match will take place on Sunday, Nov. 19 at 5 p.m. at Spry Soccer Stadium in Winston-Salem, N.C.

UNC Faces Second-Round Battle at WakeMed Soccer Park

UNC earned the No. 3 overall seed in the tournament after a stellar regular season. The Tar Heels will take on the winner between UNC Wilmington and Presbyterian. The second-round match will be played Sunday, Nov. 19 at 7 p.m. at WakeMed Soccer Park. NCFC’s venue will be home to plenty of postseason action this weekend, as the park will also host three matches in the NCAA Women’s Soccer Tournament.

Duke Readies for NCAA Second Round

Duke is back in the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 2011. The squad used a strong regular season to earn the No. 6 overall seed in the tournament. Duke will host the winner of FIU and Omaha in the second round on Sunday, Nov. 19 at 6 p.m. at Koskinen Stadium.

UNC Wilmington to Host Presbyterian in NCAA First Round

Boasting 10 Academy graduates on its roster, UNC Wilmington is set to host a first-round NCAA Tournament match against first-time qualifier Presbyterian. The Seahawks had a strong season to earn an at-large bid and the right to host a first-round match. UNCW will welcome Presbyterian to UNCW Soccer Stadium on Thursday, Nov. 16 at 7 p.m. The winner will advance to face UNC at WakeMed Soccer Park in Cary.

NC State Set for NCAA Journey

It was a long wait for Wolfpack fans watching the NCAA selection show, but it was well worth it when the last possible spot showed “NC State” on the screen. NC State is back in the NCAA Tournament for first time since 2009 and will face a visit to Old Dominion. The Wolfpack ended a seven-year NCAA drought and has proven to be a dangerous team with the ability to beat anyone. NC State will travel to Norfolk, Va., to face Old Dominion on Thursday, Nov. 16 at the ODU Soccer Complex.

Asefnia, UMass Qualify for NCAA Tournament

Bardia Asefnia (NCFC Youth Academy and NCFC U23) has helped lead UMass to the NCAA Tournament. The Minutemen picked up an automatic bid after winning the Atlantic 10 Tournament. Umass will host a first-round matchup against Colgate on Thursday, Nov. 16 at 1 p.m. at Rudd Field. The Raleigh native is having a great season between the posts, earning five shutouts while posting a 0.92 GAA.

Conger’s Georgetown Set for NCAA Second Round

Witt Conger (NCFC Youth Academy) is waiting patiently for his chance at Georgetown, and the true freshman seems to be inheriting a good system. The Hoyas had another successful season and earned the No. 14 overall seed in the tournament. Georgetown will face SMU or Central Arkansas in the second round on Nov. 19, at 1 p.m. at Shaw Field.

Additional Notes:

NCFC has several other Academy and U23 players competing in postseason tournaments across three other divisions of college soccer. Stay tuned to https://www.northcarolinafc.com for more information regarding how all our college athletes do in postseason play.

North Carolina FC College Round Up: Week 10

The North Carolina Football Club has over 90 soccer players with ties to the club’s NCFC Youth Academy or North Carolina FC U23 team taking part in men’s college soccer this season. The NCAA D-I teams are concluding conference tournaments and waiting for the NCAA Selection Show, while many teams from other divisions have already claimed conference tournament trophies and are getting set for their national tournaments this weekend.

Gauger, No. 1 Wake Forest Eye ACC Championship 

Before the top-ranked Wake Forest men’s soccer team begins its NCAA Tournament journey, it’s aiming to add some hardware to its trophy case with the ACC Championship. Wake Forest advanced to the final after a 1-0 victory over Clemson in the semifinal round. Wake will face Virginia in the final this weekend. NCFC Academy graduate, Hank Gauger, has seen his playing time increase as the season has gone on. Look for the Academy graduate to provide some key minutes in what is shaping up to be a special season for the Demon Deacons.

NCFC Ties Abound on ACC Awards

In the toughest conference in the country, six players who have played with either NCFC Youth Academy or NCFC U23 were honored by the Atlantic Coast Conference. NCFC Youth Academy product and current NC State star Manny Perez headlined the group as the ACC Freshman of the Year. Perez also appeared on the All-ACC Second Team and All-ACC Freshman Team.

UNC had three players honored, as Alan Winn (NCFC U23) made the first team, Alex Comsia (NCFC Youth Academy and NCFC U23) was selected to the third team and John Nelson (NCFC U23) was honored on the All-ACC Freshman Team. Duke had a pair of NCFC U23 players honored as well. Former U23 player Brian White made the second team, while Will Pulisic (NCFC U23) was selected to the third team and All-ACC Freshman Team.

Local Schools Set for NCAA Tournament

No. 6 UNC, No. 16 Duke and No. 28 NC State are getting primed for the NCAA Tournament. All three have seen big contributions from players with ties to NCFC and posted successful seasons. UNC closed out the regular season with another impressive campaign, losing only two matches during the regular season. The school enters the tournament as a likely favorite to return to the College Cup.

The Blue Devils had a solid year and enter the postseason with a record of 12W-4L-2D. Led by an outstanding team effort across the field, Duke certainly has the manpower and depth to make a deep NCAA run.

NC State recorded a breakout year behind first-year head coach George Keifer. The side knocked off two top-five opponents and only has one loss in its last eight matches. Look for the Wolfpack to make its first NCAA appearance since 2009, as the rejuvenated side has the potential to beat any team in the country.

CAA Schools to Conclude Conference Tournament this Week

Elon’s Elijah Agu (NCFC Youth Academy) provided a big goal for the Phoenix, netting the opening goal in the Colonial Athletic Association Championship quarterfinals. His goal, which was his team-leading fourth of the season, wasn’t enough to advance the Phoenix, as the College of Charleston picked up a 2-1 victory. Elon will wait for the NCAA Selection Show as it sits on the tournament bubble.

UNC Wilmington is still alive in the CAA Championships. After earning a first-round bye, the Seahawks will face College of Charleston in the semifinals with its sights on an automatic NCAA Tournament berth.

Charlotte Still Fighting in C-USA Championship

Charlotte added a key win over New Mexico in the C-USA quarterfinals to keep their postseason tournament hopes alive. The group is picking up steam and hasn’t lost in five matches. Charlotte will face FIU in the semifinals of the C-USA Championship on Friday.

McCartney Leads Emory to NCAA D-III Tournament

Jason McCartney (NCFC Youth Academy) has shouldered the attacking load for Emory for most of the season, leading the team with 11 goals and three assists. McCartney’s latest contribution came with an assist in Emory’s 3-2 win over Rochester in the regular season finale. Emory has qualified for the NCAA D-III Tournament and will face Dickinson College in the first round.

Additional Notes:

  • Bardia Asefnia and UMass captured the regular season Atlantic 10 title and are underway in their conference tournament. Asefnia picked up another shutout in goal with a 1-0 quarterfinal win over Saint Louis.
  • Brandon Millington (NCFC Youth Academy) closed out his junior season with UNC-Asheville with a goal in a 2-2 draw with Presbyterian. Brendan O’Dowd also picked up an assist in the draw.
  • Matthew Zinner (NCFC Youth Academy) and No. 3 Tufts University (NCAA D-III) rolled through their conference tournament to claim the NESCAC Championship. Zinner, a key member of the backline, helped extend Tufts’ shutout streak to 10 matches. The squad has a first-round bye in the NCAA Championship and will await it’s second-round opponent.
  • Gio Solis (NCFC Youth Academy) and Louisburg College (NJCAA) have won their last seven matches and claimed the Southeast District Championship. Louisburg will enter the NJCAA Men's Soccer National Tournament as the nine seed and face national powerhouses Tyler Junior College and Indian Hills Community College in pool play next week.
  • Josh Coan (NCFC Youth Academy and NCFC U23) and Pittsburgh concluded their season in the ACC Championship quarterfinals. Pittsburgh had its best season in recent history, setting numerous milestones along the way. Coan played 871 minutes across 14 matches and provided two assists on the season.
  • NCFC U23 teammates Baboucarr Njie and Sheriff Secka helped NC Wesleyan (NCAA D-III) win the USA South Tournament and book their spot in the NCAA Championship. Nije provided a goal and assist in a semifinal victory against Covenant before the team grinded out a 1-0 win in the final over Maryville. The Fighting Bishops will face Oglethorpe in the first round of the NCAA Championship this weekend.
  • Steeve Pouna and No. 5 Baker University have claimed an automatic bid to the NAIA National Championship Tournament after advancing to the Heart of America Athletic Conference Championship match. Pouna has scored five goals and recorded three assists with Baker this season.

The North Carolina Football Club has over 90 soccer players with ties to the club’s NCFC Youth Academy or North Carolina FC U23 team taking part in men’s college soccer this season. The NCAA D-I teams are concluding conference tournaments and waiting for the NCAA Selection Show, while many teams from other divisions have already claimed conference tournament trophies and are getting set for their national tournaments this weekend.

Gauger, No. 1 Wake Forest Eye ACC Championship 

Before the top-ranked Wake Forest men’s soccer team begins its NCAA Tournament journey, it’s aiming to add some hardware to its trophy case with the ACC Championship. Wake Forest advanced to the final after a 1-0 victory over Clemson in the semifinal round. Wake will face Virginia in the final this weekend. NCFC Academy graduate, Hank Gauger, has seen his playing time increase as the season has gone on. Look for the Academy graduate to provide some key minutes in what is shaping up to be a special season for the Demon Deacons.

NCFC Ties Abound on ACC Awards

In the toughest conference in the country, six players who have played with either NCFC Youth Academy or NCFC U23 were honored by the Atlantic Coast Conference. NCFC Youth Academy product and current NC State star Manny Perez headlined the group as the ACC Freshman of the Year. Perez also appeared on the All-ACC Second Team and All-ACC Freshman Team.

UNC had three players honored, as Alan Winn (NCFC U23) made the first team, Alex Comsia (NCFC Youth Academy and NCFC U23) was selected to the third team and John Nelson (NCFC U23) was honored on the All-ACC Freshman Team. Duke had a pair of NCFC U23 players honored as well. Former U23 player Brian White made the second team, while Will Pulisic (NCFC U23) was selected to the third team and All-ACC Freshman Team.

Local Schools Set for NCAA Tournament

No. 6 UNC, No. 16 Duke and No. 28 NC State are getting primed for the NCAA Tournament. All three have seen big contributions from players with ties to NCFC and posted successful seasons. UNC closed out the regular season with another impressive campaign, losing only two matches during the regular season. The school enters the tournament as a likely favorite to return to the College Cup.

The Blue Devils had a solid year and enter the postseason with a record of 12W-4L-2D. Led by an outstanding team effort across the field, Duke certainly has the manpower and depth to make a deep NCAA run.

NC State recorded a breakout year behind first-year head coach George Keifer. The side knocked off two top-five opponents and only has one loss in its last eight matches. Look for the Wolfpack to make its first NCAA appearance since 2009, as the rejuvenated side has the potential to beat any team in the country.

CAA Schools to Conclude Conference Tournament this Week

Elon’s Elijah Agu (NCFC Youth Academy) provided a big goal for the Phoenix, netting the opening goal in the Colonial Athletic Association Championship quarterfinals. His goal, which was his team-leading fourth of the season, wasn’t enough to advance the Phoenix, as the College of Charleston picked up a 2-1 victory. Elon will wait for the NCAA Selection Show as it sits on the tournament bubble.

UNC Wilmington is still alive in the CAA Championships. After earning a first-round bye, the Seahawks will face College of Charleston in the semifinals with its sights on an automatic NCAA Tournament berth.

Charlotte Still Fighting in C-USA Championship

Charlotte added a key win over New Mexico in the C-USA quarterfinals to keep their postseason tournament hopes alive. The group is picking up steam and hasn’t lost in five matches. Charlotte will face FIU in the semifinals of the C-USA Championship on Friday.

McCartney Leads Emory to NCAA D-III Tournament

Jason McCartney (NCFC Youth Academy) has shouldered the attacking load for Emory for most of the season, leading the team with 11 goals and three assists. McCartney’s latest contribution came with an assist in Emory’s 3-2 win over Rochester in the regular season finale. Emory has qualified for the NCAA D-III Tournament and will face Dickinson College in the first round.

Additional Notes:

  • Bardia Asefnia and UMass captured the regular season Atlantic 10 title and are underway in their conference tournament. Asefnia picked up another shutout in goal with a 1-0 quarterfinal win over Saint Louis.
  • Brandon Millington (NCFC Youth Academy) closed out his junior season with UNC-Asheville with a goal in a 2-2 draw with Presbyterian. Brendan O’Dowd also picked up an assist in the draw.
  • Matthew Zinner (NCFC Youth Academy) and No. 3 Tufts University (NCAA D-III) rolled through their conference tournament to claim the NESCAC Championship. Zinner, a key member of the backline, helped extend Tufts’ shutout streak to 10 matches. The squad has a first-round bye in the NCAA Championship and will await it’s second-round opponent.
  • Gio Solis (NCFC Youth Academy) and Louisburg College (NJCAA) have won their last seven matches and claimed the Southeast District Championship. Louisburg will enter the NJCAA Men’s Soccer National Tournament as the nine seed and face national powerhouses Tyler Junior College and Indian Hills Community College in pool play next week.
  • Josh Coan (NCFC Youth Academy and NCFC U23) and Pittsburgh concluded their season in the ACC Championship quarterfinals. Pittsburgh had its best season in recent history, setting numerous milestones along the way. Coan played 871 minutes across 14 matches and provided two assists on the season.
  • NCFC U23 teammates Baboucarr Njie and Sheriff Secka helped NC Wesleyan (NCAA D-III) win the USA South Tournament and book their spot in the NCAA Championship. Nije provided a goal and assist in a semifinal victory against Covenant before the team grinded out a 1-0 win in the final over Maryville. The Fighting Bishops will face Oglethorpe in the first round of the NCAA Championship this weekend.
  • Steeve Pouna and No. 5 Baker University have claimed an automatic bid to the NAIA National Championship Tournament after advancing to the Heart of America Athletic Conference Championship match. Pouna has scored five goals and recorded three assists with Baker this season.

NORTH CAROLINA FC COLLEGE ROUND UP: WEEK 9

The North Carolina Football Club has over 90 soccer players with ties to the club’s NCFC Youth Academy or North Carolina FC U23 team taking part in men’s college soccer this season. Most college teams have concluded their regular seasons and are set to begin postseason play.

No. 1 Wake Forest Moves to Top of College Rankings

Wake Forest will enter the postseason ranked as the No. 1 team in the country. Following locking up an ACC Atlantic Division regular season title and going undefeated in conference play, the Demon Deacons will shift their attention towards the postseason. Wake is on a 13-match unbeaten streak and will face the winner between NC State and Virginia Tech in the ACC Tournament quarterfinal. NCFC Youth Academy Product Hank Gauger has picked up playing time as the season has gone on and has recorded two goals in 2017.

No. 3 UNC Blanks Virginia Tech, Notre Dame

UNC added two solid wins to round out its regular season, defeating Virginia Tech 4-0 and Notre Dame 3-0. NCFC Youth Academy graduate Lucas del Rosario continued his impressive freshman season and added an assist in UNC’s win over Notre Dame. Former NCFC U23 member Alan Winn also scored in the win over Notre Dame, increasing his season total to nine goals.

No. 11 Duke Goes Undefeated in Final Week of Regular Season

The Duke men’s soccer team added some hard-earned results to its resume this past week. NCFC U23 man Will Pulisic led his team to a 0-0 draw at Notre Dame. Pulisic made seven saves including a penalty kick save in overtime to help the Blue Devils lock up the result. Brian White (NCFC U23) added an assist in the team’s 2-1 win over Delaware. The Blue Devils closed out the regular season with a 1-0 victory over Virginia.

NC State Enters Postseason with Momentum

NC State is undefeated in its last seven matches and has locked up a massive win ahead of the ACC Tournament. NCFC Youth Academy graduate Manny Perez led the Wolfpack to an upset win over then No. 5 Louisville, scoring twice and adding an assist on another goal. The freshman is leading the team with five goals and four assists. Former NCFC U23 man Clayton Sparks added the other goal in NC State’s win over Louisville. NC State will host Virginia Tech in the first round of the ACC Tournament at Dail Soccer Stadium on Wednesday, Nov. 1 at 7 p.m.

UNCW Rebounds in Win over Northeastern

After a tough run of form, UNCW is aiming to pick up its play with the postseason quickly approaching. The Seahawks defeated Northeastern 1-0 to close out the regular season. The team will look ahead to the Colonial Athletic Association Championships, which is set to begin this weekend.

Rutherford’s Game-Winner Leads Charlotte Past Georgia State

NCFC U23’s Dean Rutherford fired Charlotte to a 4-3 victory over Georgia State, netting the game-winning goal in overtime. NCFC Youth Academy and NCFC U23 player Ryan Spaulding also picked up an assist in the win. Charlotte will close out the regular season against Kentucky on Wednesday.

Elon Closes Out Regular Season with Three-Straight Wins

NCFC Youth Academy products John Walden and Elijah Agu continue to provide Elon with offensive production. Walden provided the assist on Agu’s game-winning goal over Drexel. The Phoenix then rolled to a 2-1 win against Davidson and a 1-0 victory over Delaware to close out the season. Elon will begin its postseason journey with the Colonial Athletic Association Championships this weekend.

Additional Notes:

  • Jason McCartney continued his impressive season and added two goals in Emory’s 4-0 win over Berry. McCartney is up to 11 goals this season.
  • Matthew Zinner and No. 4 Tufts University (NCAA D-III) didn’t allow a goal during the month of October. The group is 13W-1L-2D this season and is heading to the NESCAC semifinals after a win over Bates.
  • Two NCFC Youth Academy graduates scored for UNC-Asheville last week, as Brendan O’Dowd tallied a goal against Longwood and Colin Daughtry scored the game-winning goal in a victory over Winthrop for the Bulldogs.
  • NCFC U23 members and NC Wesleyan (NCAA-D-III) teammates Baboucarr Njie and Sheriff Secka continue to shine. The Fighting Bishops are on a 12-match winning streak. Njie has scored once and added two assists, while Secka has scored twice for NC Wesleyan in its last three matches.
  • Chase Rhode (NCFC U23) and UC Davis closed out the regular season with three-straight wins. Rhode picked up an assist in UC Davis’ 2-1 victory over Cal Poly.

The North Carolina Football Club has over 90 soccer players with ties to the club’s NCFC Youth Academy or North Carolina FC U23 team taking part in men’s college soccer this season. Most college teams have concluded their regular seasons and are set to begin postseason play.

No. 1 Wake Forest Moves to Top of College Rankings

Wake Forest will enter the postseason ranked as the No. 1 team in the country. Following locking up an ACC Atlantic Division regular season title and going undefeated in conference play, the Demon Deacons will shift their attention towards the postseason. Wake is on a 13-match unbeaten streak and will face the winner between NC State and Virginia Tech in the ACC Tournament quarterfinal. NCFC Youth Academy Product Hank Gauger has picked up playing time as the season has gone on and has recorded two goals in 2017.

No. 3 UNC Blanks Virginia Tech, Notre Dame

UNC added two solid wins to round out its regular season, defeating Virginia Tech 4-0 and Notre Dame 3-0. NCFC Youth Academy graduate Lucas del Rosario continued his impressive freshman season and added an assist in UNC’s win over Notre Dame. Former NCFC U23 member Alan Winn also scored in the win over Notre Dame, increasing his season total to nine goals.

No. 11 Duke Goes Undefeated in Final Week of Regular Season

The Duke men’s soccer team added some hard-earned results to its resume this past week. NCFC U23 man Will Pulisic led his team to a 0-0 draw at Notre Dame. Pulisic made seven saves including a penalty kick save in overtime to help the Blue Devils lock up the result. Brian White (NCFC U23) added an assist in the team’s 2-1 win over Delaware. The Blue Devils closed out the regular season with a 1-0 victory over Virginia.

NC State Enters Postseason with Momentum

NC State is undefeated in its last seven matches and has locked up a massive win ahead of the ACC Tournament. NCFC Youth Academy graduate Manny Perez led the Wolfpack to an upset win over then No. 5 Louisville, scoring twice and adding an assist on another goal. The freshman is leading the team with five goals and four assists. Former NCFC U23 man Clayton Sparks added the other goal in NC State’s win over Louisville. NC State will host Virginia Tech in the first round of the ACC Tournament at Dail Soccer Stadium on Wednesday, Nov. 1 at 7 p.m.

UNCW Rebounds in Win over Northeastern

After a tough run of form, UNCW is aiming to pick up its play with the postseason quickly approaching. The Seahawks defeated Northeastern 1-0 to close out the regular season. The team will look ahead to the Colonial Athletic Association Championships, which is set to begin this weekend.

Rutherford’s Game-Winner Leads Charlotte Past Georgia State

NCFC U23’s Dean Rutherford fired Charlotte to a 4-3 victory over Georgia State, netting the game-winning goal in overtime. NCFC Youth Academy and NCFC U23 player Ryan Spaulding also picked up an assist in the win. Charlotte will close out the regular season against Kentucky on Wednesday.

Elon Closes Out Regular Season with Three-Straight Wins

NCFC Youth Academy products John Walden and Elijah Agu continue to provide Elon with offensive production. Walden provided the assist on Agu’s game-winning goal over Drexel. The Phoenix then rolled to a 2-1 win against Davidson and a 1-0 victory over Delaware to close out the season. Elon will begin its postseason journey with the Colonial Athletic Association Championships this weekend.

Additional Notes:

  • Jason McCartney continued his impressive season and added two goals in Emory’s 4-0 win over Berry. McCartney is up to 11 goals this season.
  • Matthew Zinner and No. 4 Tufts University (NCAA D-III) didn’t allow a goal during the month of October. The group is 13W-1L-2D this season and is heading to the NESCAC semifinals after a win over Bates.
  • Two NCFC Youth Academy graduates scored for UNC-Asheville last week, as Brendan O’Dowd tallied a goal against Longwood and Colin Daughtry scored the game-winning goal in a victory over Winthrop for the Bulldogs.
  • NCFC U23 members and NC Wesleyan (NCAA-D-III) teammates Baboucarr Njie and Sheriff Secka continue to shine. The Fighting Bishops are on a 12-match winning streak. Njie has scored once and added two assists, while Secka has scored twice for NC Wesleyan in its last three matches.
  • Chase Rhode (NCFC U23) and UC Davis closed out the regular season with three-straight wins. Rhode picked up an assist in UC Davis’ 2-1 victory over Cal Poly.

NORTH CAROLINA FOOTBALL CLUB MENS COLLEGE SOCCER ROUND UP WEEK 6

The North Carolina Football Club has over 90 soccer players with ties to the club’s NCFC Youth Academy or North Carolina FC U23 team taking part in men’s college soccer this season. This week, the former players led their schools to a variety of achievements, including a ninth-straight win for one local school.

No. 4 North Carolina Blanks NC State, JMU

UNC Chapel Hill continued to roll through the college season, earning a 1-0 victory over NC State and a 6-0 victory over JMU this week. The Tar Heels defeated Triangle-rival NC State via a penalty kick in the 40thminute. The match featured a combined 24 Academy and U23 players on the rosters. In the match against JMU, former U23 player Alan Winn recorded his eighth goal of the season, while former Academy player Lucas del Rosario picked up an assist. UNC has won nine matches in a row heading into its showdown with No. 2 Wake Forest.

No. 16 UNCW, No. 19 Duke and NC State Rebound in Midweek Games

After all three in-state schools narrowly fell in conference matches over the weekend, UNC Wilmington, Duke and NC State got back into the win column with midweek victories. The Seahawks topped Coastal Carolina with a 3-1 result. Two former Academy players provided offense for UNCW. Kalvin Kromer scored and Ben Fisher notched an assist. Duke powered past Elon with a 1-0 result, as Will Pulisic (NCFC U23) earned another shutout in goal. NC State added a clinical 3-0 victory over Belmont. Former NCFC U23 player Ade Taiwo got on the scoresheet with a goal for the Wolfpack, and Caleb Duvernay (NCFC Youth Academy & NCFC U23) picked up an assist.

Additional Notes:

  • Josh Coan (NCFC Youth Academy & NCFC U23) helped lead Pittsburgh to a historic victory, as the Panthers defeated No. 21 Syracuse. The local product added an assist on the game-winning goal, giving Pitt its first ACC win ever. The Panthers followed up that victory with a second win over a top-25 opponent, knocking off No. 14 Columbia 1-0.
  • A brace from Jason McCartney led to a 5-2 victory for Emory over Piedmont, bringing the Eagles to 8W-2L-0D on the season. McCartney has totaled a team-high seven goals for Emory in 2017.
  • Kenneth Perkinson (NCFC Youth Academy) totaled four saves and a shutout in Winthrop’s 1-0 victory over Longwood.
  • NC Wesleyan has won four straight matches and NCFC U23 teammates Baboucarr Njie and Sheriff Secka are leading the offense for the Fighting Bishops. During the week, NC Wesleyan defeated Greensboro 4-1, while Nije contributed two assists in the win. The squad followed that victory up with a 3-2 win over Ferrum that included two goals from Secka and an assist from Njie.

The North Carolina Football Club has over 90 soccer players with ties to the club’s NCFC Youth Academy or North Carolina FC U23 team taking part in men’s college soccer this season. This week, the former players led their schools to a variety of achievements, including a ninth-straight win for one local school.

No. 4 North Carolina Blanks NC State, JMU

UNC Chapel Hill continued to roll through the college season, earning a 1-0 victory over NC State and a 6-0 victory over JMU this week. The Tar Heels defeated Triangle-rival NC State via a penalty kick in the 40thminute. The match featured a combined 24 Academy and U23 players on the rosters. In the match against JMU, former U23 player Alan Winn recorded his eighth goal of the season, while former Academy player Lucas del Rosario picked up an assist. UNC has won nine matches in a row heading into its showdown with No. 2 Wake Forest.

No. 16 UNCW, No. 19 Duke and NC State Rebound in Midweek Games

After all three in-state schools narrowly fell in conference matches over the weekend, UNC Wilmington, Duke and NC State got back into the win column with midweek victories. The Seahawks topped Coastal Carolina with a 3-1 result. Two former Academy players provided offense for UNCW. Kalvin Kromer scored and Ben Fisher notched an assist. Duke powered past Elon with a 1-0 result, as Will Pulisic (NCFC U23) earned another shutout in goal. NC State added a clinical 3-0 victory over Belmont. Former NCFC U23 player Ade Taiwo got on the scoresheet with a goal for the Wolfpack, and Caleb Duvernay (NCFC Youth Academy & NCFC U23) picked up an assist.

Additional Notes:

  • Josh Coan (NCFC Youth Academy & NCFC U23) helped lead Pittsburgh to a historic victory, as the Panthers defeated No. 21 Syracuse. The local product added an assist on the game-winning goal, giving Pitt its first ACC win ever. The Panthers followed up that victory with a second win over a top-25 opponent, knocking off No. 14 Columbia 1-0.
  • A brace from Jason McCartney led to a 5-2 victory for Emory over Piedmont, bringing the Eagles to 8W-2L-0D on the season. McCartney has totaled a team-high seven goals for Emory in 2017.
  • Kenneth Perkinson (NCFC Youth Academy) totaled four saves and a shutout in Winthrop’s 1-0 victory over Longwood.
  • NC Wesleyan has won four straight matches and NCFC U23 teammates Baboucarr Njie and Sheriff Secka are leading the offense for the Fighting Bishops. During the week, NC Wesleyan defeated Greensboro 4-1, while Nije contributed two assists in the win. The squad followed that victory up with a 3-2 win over Ferrum that included two goals from Secka and an assist from Njie.

CARRANZA, PEREZ, TAITAGUE CALLED UP FOR U.S. U-18 MNT

CHICAGO (Oct. 2, 2017) –  U.S. Under-18 Men’s National Team head coach Omid Namazi has named a 20-player roster for the team’s fourth gathering of 2017, an international camp in Marbella, Spain from Oct. 1 to 10. It will be the final camp of the U-18 cycle before the group moves up to the U-20 level in 2018.
 
During camp the USA will take on Belgium on Oct. 5 and Russia on Oct. 9.
 
“I feel we have a very strong roster going into this camp. We are looking to end the U-18 player cycle, players born in 1999, on a good note,” Namazi said. “Our goal is to continue to establish our style of play and also gets results against some formidable opponents. With Belgium, they possess the ball, so it’s going to be important for us to make sure that we can put pressure on the ball and battle to get into a rhythm, because if not, it’s going to be difficult. With Russia, they are a little bit different. They’ll give you some ground to play, but they sit back, absorb the pressure and they are very quick on the counter.”
 
Jose Carranza, Manny Perez and Nick Taitague, who all have ties to North Carolina FC were included in the latest call up and will report to the U18 MNT camp. The trio of emerging stars are regulars in the national team system and have earned previous call ups to represent the national team before.
 
Jose Carranza is part of NCFC’s first team and recently inked his first professional contract with the club on Aug. 1. The midfielder has played 488 minutes and has logged one assist in NASL play.
 
Perez, who is currently playing college soccer with NC State, came through the NCFC Youth Academy system. He’s also been included in the first team and earned valuable minutes in international exhibitions for the club – most recently appearing in NCFC’s match against Swansea City on July 22.
 
Taitague played with North Carolina FC in 2016 before signing his first professional deal with FC Schalke 04. Taitague currently plays for Schalke’s U-19 squad and has also seen first-team action in preseason friendlies for the top-flight German Bundesliga club.
 
U.S. U18 Men’s National Team Roster 
 
Goalkeepers (2): Eric Lopez (LA Galaxy; Los Angeles, Calif.), Brady Scott (FC Koln; Petaluma, Calif.)
 
Defenders (6): Julian Araujo (Barca Academy; Lompoc, Calif.), Mark McKenzie (Wake Forest; Bear, Delaware), Matthew Real (Philadelphia Union; Drexel Hill, Pa.), Aedan Stanley (St. Louis FC; Columbia, Ill.) Angel Uribe (Club Tijuana; San Diego, Calif.), Carson Vom Steeg (Stanford; Santa Barbara, Calif.)
 
Midfielders (7): Christian Cappis (FC Dallas; Katy, Texas), Jose Carranza (North Carolina FC; Manassas, Va.), Jonathan Gonzalez (C.F. Monterrey; Santa Rosa, Calif.), Paxton Pomykal (FC Dallas; Highland Village, Texas), Brandon Servania (Wake Forest; Birmingham, Ala.), Juan Pablo Torres (Sporting Lokoren; Lilburn, Ga.), Sam Vines (Charlotte Independence; Charlotte, N.C.)
 
Forwards (5): Shaft Brewer (RB Leipzig; Sacramento, Calif.), Griff Dorsey (Indiana; Evergreen, Colo.), Emmanuel Perez (NC State; Garner, N.C.), Nebiyou Perry (AIK; New York, NY), Nicholas Taitague (FC Schalke; Midlothian, Va.)


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CHICAGO (Oct. 2, 2017) –  U.S. Under-18 Men’s National Team head coach Omid Namazi has named a 20-player roster for the team’s fourth gathering of 2017, an international camp in Marbella, Spain from Oct. 1 to 10. It will be the final camp of the U-18 cycle before the group moves up to the U-20 level in 2018.
 
During camp the USA will take on Belgium on Oct. 5 and Russia on Oct. 9.
 
“I feel we have a very strong roster going into this camp. We are looking to end the U-18 player cycle, players born in 1999, on a good note,” Namazi said. “Our goal is to continue to establish our style of play and also gets results against some formidable opponents. With Belgium, they possess the ball, so it’s going to be important for us to make sure that we can put pressure on the ball and battle to get into a rhythm, because if not, it’s going to be difficult. With Russia, they are a little bit different. They’ll give you some ground to play, but they sit back, absorb the pressure and they are very quick on the counter.”
 
Jose Carranza, Manny Perez and Nick Taitague, who all have ties to North Carolina FC were included in the latest call up and will report to the U18 MNT camp. The trio of emerging stars are regulars in the national team system and have earned previous call ups to represent the national team before.
 
Jose Carranza is part of NCFC’s first team and recently inked his first professional contract with the club on Aug. 1. The midfielder has played 488 minutes and has logged one assist in NASL play.
 
Perez, who is currently playing college soccer with NC State, came through the NCFC Youth Academy system. He’s also been included in the first team and earned valuable minutes in international exhibitions for the club – most recently appearing in NCFC’s match against Swansea City on July 22.
 
Taitague played with North Carolina FC in 2016 before signing his first professional deal with FC Schalke 04. Taitague currently plays for Schalke’s U-19 squad and has also seen first-team action in preseason friendlies for the top-flight German Bundesliga club.
 
U.S. U18 Men’s National Team Roster 
 
Goalkeepers (2): Eric Lopez (LA Galaxy; Los Angeles, Calif.), Brady Scott (FC Koln; Petaluma, Calif.)
 
Defenders (6): Julian Araujo (Barca Academy; Lompoc, Calif.), Mark McKenzie (Wake Forest; Bear, Delaware), Matthew Real (Philadelphia Union; Drexel Hill, Pa.), Aedan Stanley (St. Louis FC; Columbia, Ill.) Angel Uribe (Club Tijuana; San Diego, Calif.), Carson Vom Steeg (Stanford; Santa Barbara, Calif.)
 
Midfielders (7): Christian Cappis (FC Dallas; Katy, Texas), Jose Carranza (North Carolina FC; Manassas, Va.), Jonathan Gonzalez (C.F. Monterrey; Santa Rosa, Calif.), Paxton Pomykal (FC Dallas; Highland Village, Texas), Brandon Servania (Wake Forest; Birmingham, Ala.), Juan Pablo Torres (Sporting Lokoren; Lilburn, Ga.), Sam Vines (Charlotte Independence; Charlotte, N.C.)
 
Forwards (5): Shaft Brewer (RB Leipzig; Sacramento, Calif.), Griff Dorsey (Indiana; Evergreen, Colo.), Emmanuel Perez (NC State; Garner, N.C.), Nebiyou Perry (AIK; New York, NY), Nicholas Taitague (FC Schalke; Midlothian, Va.)


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NORTH CAROLINA FOOTBALL CLUB MENS COLLEGE SOCCER ROUNDUP WEEK 5

The North Carolina Football Club has over 90 soccer players with ties to the club’s NCFC Youth Academy or North Carolina FC U23 team taking part in men’s college soccer this season. This week, seven college teams in the state of North Carolina are ranked or receiving votes in the latest United Soccer Division I Coaches Poll.

No. 5 UNC Builds Momentum

The No. 5 UNC Chapel Hill men’s soccer team posted a pair of victories, downing No. 10 Virginia and Winthrop during the week to extends its winning streak to seven matches. The Tar Heels took down Virginia on the road with a golden goal in overtime. Former NCFC U23 member Alan Winn scored his seventh goal of the year in the victory and was highlighted as the Top Drawer Soccer National Player of the Week for his play. The squad then rolled to a decisive 4-0 victory over Winthrop, as Lucas del Rosario (NCFC Youth Academy) netted a goal and an assist. Alex Comsia (NCFC Youth Academy and NCFC U23), John Nelson (NCFC U23) and Jeremy Kelly (NCFC Youth Academy) have all been features in the lineup during the unbeaten run. NCAA Division I top-10 saves leader Kenneth Perkinson started in goal for Winthrop.

No. 15 UNCW Continues to Climb in National Rankings

UNC Wilmington is up to No. 15 in the latest poll. The squad most recently grinded out a 2-1 victory over William & Mary. Dylan Chain was the latest Academy graduate to get in on the action. He played in his first match of the season and helped lead the Seahawks to an important conference victory, adding an assist. In total, eight former Academy products have earned playing time for the Seahawks this year.

No. 19 Duke Upsets Syracuse, Shuts Out App. State

The No. 19 Duke men’s soccer team continues to earn big victories. The Blue Devils locked up a 2-1 win over then No. 11 Syracuse over the weekend before adding a 1-0 victory over Appalachian State this week. Former NCFC U23 player Brian White scored in both matches, while Cody Brinkman (NCFC Youth Academy and NCFC U23), Colby Agu (NCFC Youth Academy) and Will Pulisic (NCFC U23) all played during the week. The Mountaineers’ lineup featured NCFC U23’s Ian Bennett.

NC State Cruises Past UNC Asheville

NC State rebounded after a midweek loss to No. 7 Notre Dame with a decisive 3-0 victory over UNC Asheville. Manny Perez (NCFC Youth Academy) recorded an assist in the win. In total, seven different players with ties to the club earned playing time. On the other side of the pitch, NCFC Academy graduates Brendan O’Dowd and Brandon Millington started for the Bulldogs.

Elon Remains Undefeated, Receives Vote in Top-25 Poll

John Walden was the only Academy product to feature last week in Elon’s 0-0 draw with James Madison. The Phoenix have earned two-consecutive 0-0 draws to extended its undefeated record to 3W-0L-5D. Additionally, Elon became the seventh college team from North Carolina to earn a vote in the national poll.

Additional Notes:

  • Hank Gauger (NCFC Youth Academy) and his Wake Forest side have moved up to No. 2 in the latest poll. Wake has won six in a row and are heading into a critical part of the season, as they face No. 6 Clemson and No. 5 UNC in the next week of play.
  • Charlotte’s Ryan Spaulding (NCFC Youth Academy and NCFC U23) and Dean Rutherford (NCFC U23) continue to earn playing time for the 49ers. The side fought to a 2-2 draw with FIU this week and is still receiving votes in the national poll.
  • Bardia Asefnia earned his third shutout of the year, as UMass took down Hartford 3-0.
  • Jason McCartney had a big week with Emory, leading the Eagles with a game-winning goal in over Maryville (Tenn.) and then adding a goal and an assist in Emory’s 3-0 victory over Carthage. McCartney leads his roster with five goals and an assist through eight matches this season.
  • Nacho Miras (NCFC U23) earned his first shutout of the season with Valparaiso in a 1-0 victory over IUPUI.
  • Cooper Duplantis (NCFC U23) picked up an assist in VMI’s match against Howard.
  • NCFC U23 members Sheriff Secka and Baboucarr Njie ignited NC Wesleyan’s attack in 7-0 and 3-0 victories over the weekend. Secka scored a brace and Njie added a goal in a 7-0 win over Huntingdon and Nije added a goal and an assist and Secka recorded a goal in a 3-0 win over Brevard.
  • Steeve Pouna added another goal to his season tally with the game-winning goal for No. 7 Baker University (NAIA) over Graceland University.

*All rankings based on Sep. 26 United Soccer Coaches Poll

The North Carolina Football Club has over 90 soccer players with ties to the club’s NCFC Youth Academy or North Carolina FC U23 team taking part in men’s college soccer this season. This week, seven college teams in the state of North Carolina are ranked or receiving votes in the latest United Soccer Division I Coaches Poll.

No. 5 UNC Builds Momentum

The No. 5 UNC Chapel Hill men’s soccer team posted a pair of victories, downing No. 10 Virginia and Winthrop during the week to extends its winning streak to seven matches. The Tar Heels took down Virginia on the road with a golden goal in overtime. Former NCFC U23 member Alan Winn scored his seventh goal of the year in the victory and was highlighted as the Top Drawer Soccer National Player of the Week for his play. The squad then rolled to a decisive 4-0 victory over Winthrop, as Lucas del Rosario (NCFC Youth Academy) netted a goal and an assist. Alex Comsia (NCFC Youth Academy and NCFC U23), John Nelson (NCFC U23) and Jeremy Kelly (NCFC Youth Academy) have all been features in the lineup during the unbeaten run. NCAA Division I top-10 saves leader Kenneth Perkinson started in goal for Winthrop.

No. 15 UNCW Continues to Climb in National Rankings

UNC Wilmington is up to No. 15 in the latest poll. The squad most recently grinded out a 2-1 victory over William & Mary. Dylan Chain was the latest Academy graduate to get in on the action. He played in his first match of the season and helped lead the Seahawks to an important conference victory, adding an assist. In total, eight former Academy products have earned playing time for the Seahawks this year.

No. 19 Duke Upsets Syracuse, Shuts Out App. State

The No. 19 Duke men’s soccer team continues to earn big victories. The Blue Devils locked up a 2-1 win over then No. 11 Syracuse over the weekend before adding a 1-0 victory over Appalachian State this week. Former NCFC U23 player Brian White scored in both matches, while Cody Brinkman (NCFC Youth Academy and NCFC U23), Colby Agu (NCFC Youth Academy) and Will Pulisic (NCFC U23) all played during the week. The Mountaineers’ lineup featured NCFC U23’s Ian Bennett.

NC State Cruises Past UNC Asheville

NC State rebounded after a midweek loss to No. 7 Notre Dame with a decisive 3-0 victory over UNC Asheville. Manny Perez (NCFC Youth Academy) recorded an assist in the win. In total, seven different players with ties to the club earned playing time. On the other side of the pitch, NCFC Academy graduates Brendan O’Dowd and Brandon Millington started for the Bulldogs.

Elon Remains Undefeated, Receives Vote in Top-25 Poll

John Walden was the only Academy product to feature last week in Elon’s 0-0 draw with James Madison. The Phoenix have earned two-consecutive 0-0 draws to extended its undefeated record to 3W-0L-5D. Additionally, Elon became the seventh college team from North Carolina to earn a vote in the national poll.

Additional Notes:

  • Hank Gauger (NCFC Youth Academy) and his Wake Forest side have moved up to No. 2 in the latest poll. Wake has won six in a row and are heading into a critical part of the season, as they face No. 6 Clemson and No. 5 UNC in the next week of play.
  • Charlotte’s Ryan Spaulding (NCFC Youth Academy and NCFC U23) and Dean Rutherford (NCFC U23) continue to earn playing time for the 49ers. The side fought to a 2-2 draw with FIU this week and is still receiving votes in the national poll.
  • Bardia Asefnia earned his third shutout of the year, as UMass took down Hartford 3-0.
  • Jason McCartney had a big week with Emory, leading the Eagles with a game-winning goal in over Maryville (Tenn.) and then adding a goal and an assist in Emory’s 3-0 victory over Carthage. McCartney leads his roster with five goals and an assist through eight matches this season.
  • Nacho Miras (NCFC U23) earned his first shutout of the season with Valparaiso in a 1-0 victory over IUPUI.
  • Cooper Duplantis (NCFC U23) picked up an assist in VMI’s match against Howard.
  • NCFC U23 members Sheriff Secka and Baboucarr Njie ignited NC Wesleyan’s attack in 7-0 and 3-0 victories over the weekend. Secka scored a brace and Njie added a goal in a 7-0 win over Huntingdon and Nije added a goal and an assist and Secka recorded a goal in a 3-0 win over Brevard.
  • Steeve Pouna added another goal to his season tally with the game-winning goal for No. 7 Baker University (NAIA) over Graceland University.

*All rankings based on Sep. 26 United Soccer Coaches Poll

ACOSTA TO REPRESENT UNITED STATES AT FIFA U-17 WORLD CUP

CHICAGO (Sep. 21, 2017) – U.S. Under-17 Men’s National Team head coach John Hackworth has named a 21-player roster for the 2017 FIFA U-17 World Cup in India, which runs from Oct. 6-28.

George Acosta, who played the final half of the 2017 Premier Development League (PDL) season with NCFC U-23 and appeared in the first team’s exhibition against Swansea City, is among the 21 players selected to represent the United States.

“This cycle of players is unique in terms of the quality, depth and work ethic of the group,” Hackworth said. “The biggest challenge in selecting this roster was the competition for spots at almost every position. Our team is looking forward to this opportunity to compete for the U-17 World Cup and are motivated to prove themselves on the world stage.”

The group departs Sep. 24 for training in Dubai, where the remaining players will join the camp prior to arrival in India.

The USA was drawn into Group A with Colombia, Ghana and India. The team opens group play vs. India on Oct. 6 (10:30 a.m. ET), followed by matches against Ghana on Oct. 9 (7:30 a.m. ET) and Colombia on Oct. 12 (10:30 a.m. ET). The first two games will be played at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi, while the final group game will be played at Dr. DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai. All of the U.S.’s group matches will be broadcast live on FS2 and UNIVERSO. 

The World Cup will be played in six cities across India: Kochi, Goa, Navi Mumbai, New Delhi, Guwahati, and Kolkata. A total of 24 countries participate in the tournament with the top two teams from each of the six groups, as well as the four best third-place teams, advance to the Round of 16 on October 16, 17, and 18. The championship and third-place matches take place Saturday, Oct. 28, at the 66,600-capacity Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan Stadium in Kolkata.

U.S. 2017 FIFA U-17 World Cup Roster by Position:

GOALKEEPERS (3): Alex Budnik (Sockers FC; Arlington Heights, Ill.), Carlos Joaquim Dos Santos (S.L. Benfica; Philadelphia, Penn.), Justin Garces (Atlanta United FC; Miami, Fla.)

DEFENDERS (6): Sergiño Dest (Ajax; Almere-stad, Netherlands), Christopher Gloster (New York Red Bulls; Montclair, N.J.), Jaylin Lindsey (Sporting Kansas City; Charlotte, N.C.), James Sands (New York City FC; Rye, N.Y.), Tyler Shaver (New York City FC; Greenwich, Conn.), Akil Watts (Portland Timbers, Fort Wayne, Ind.)

MIDFIELDERS (6): George Acosta (North Carolina FC; Hollywood, Fla.), Taylor Booth (Real Salt Lake; Eden, Utah), Christopher Durkin (D.C. United; Glen Allen, Va.), Blaine Ferri (Solar Soccer Club; Southlake, Texas), Chris Goslin (Atlanta United FC; Locust Grove, Ga.), Indiana Vassilev (Unattached; Savannah, Ga.)

FORWARDS (6): Ayo Akinola (Toronto FC; Brampton Ont.), Andrew Carleton (Atlanta United FC; Powder Springs, Ga.), Jacobo Reyes (C.F. Monterrey; Houston, Texas), Bryan Reynolds (FC Dallas; Little Elm, Texas), Joshua Sargent (St. Louis Scott Gallagher Missouri; O'Fallon, Mo.), Tim Weah (Paris Saint-Germain F.C., Rosedale, N.Y.)

CHICAGO (Sep. 21, 2017) – U.S. Under-17 Men’s National Team head coach John Hackworth has named a 21-player roster for the 2017 FIFA U-17 World Cup in India, which runs from Oct. 6-28.

George Acosta, who played the final half of the 2017 Premier Development League (PDL) season with NCFC U-23 and appeared in the first team’s exhibition against Swansea City, is among the 21 players selected to represent the United States.

“This cycle of players is unique in terms of the quality, depth and work ethic of the group,” Hackworth said. “The biggest challenge in selecting this roster was the competition for spots at almost every position. Our team is looking forward to this opportunity to compete for the U-17 World Cup and are motivated to prove themselves on the world stage.”

The group departs Sep. 24 for training in Dubai, where the remaining players will join the camp prior to arrival in India.

The USA was drawn into Group A with Colombia, Ghana and India. The team opens group play vs. India on Oct. 6 (10:30 a.m. ET), followed by matches against Ghana on Oct. 9 (7:30 a.m. ET) and Colombia on Oct. 12 (10:30 a.m. ET). The first two games will be played at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi, while the final group game will be played at Dr. DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai. All of the U.S.’s group matches will be broadcast live on FS2 and UNIVERSO. 

The World Cup will be played in six cities across India: Kochi, Goa, Navi Mumbai, New Delhi, Guwahati, and Kolkata. A total of 24 countries participate in the tournament with the top two teams from each of the six groups, as well as the four best third-place teams, advance to the Round of 16 on October 16, 17, and 18. The championship and third-place matches take place Saturday, Oct. 28, at the 66,600-capacity Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan Stadium in Kolkata.

U.S. 2017 FIFA U-17 World Cup Roster by Position:

GOALKEEPERS (3): Alex Budnik (Sockers FC; Arlington Heights, Ill.), Carlos Joaquim Dos Santos (S.L. Benfica; Philadelphia, Penn.), Justin Garces (Atlanta United FC; Miami, Fla.)

DEFENDERS (6): Sergiño Dest (Ajax; Almere-stad, Netherlands), Christopher Gloster (New York Red Bulls; Montclair, N.J.), Jaylin Lindsey (Sporting Kansas City; Charlotte, N.C.), James Sands (New York City FC; Rye, N.Y.), Tyler Shaver (New York City FC; Greenwich, Conn.), Akil Watts (Portland Timbers, Fort Wayne, Ind.)

MIDFIELDERS (6): George Acosta (North Carolina FC; Hollywood, Fla.), Taylor Booth (Real Salt Lake; Eden, Utah), Christopher Durkin (D.C. United; Glen Allen, Va.), Blaine Ferri (Solar Soccer Club; Southlake, Texas), Chris Goslin (Atlanta United FC; Locust Grove, Ga.), Indiana Vassilev (Unattached; Savannah, Ga.)

FORWARDS (6): Ayo Akinola (Toronto FC; Brampton Ont.), Andrew Carleton (Atlanta United FC; Powder Springs, Ga.), Jacobo Reyes (C.F. Monterrey; Houston, Texas), Bryan Reynolds (FC Dallas; Little Elm, Texas), Joshua Sargent (St. Louis Scott Gallagher Missouri; O’Fallon, Mo.), Tim Weah (Paris Saint-Germain F.C., Rosedale, N.Y.)

NORTH CAROLINA FOOTBALL CLUB MENS COLLEGE SOCCER ROUNDUP WEEK 4

The North Carolina Football Club has over 90 soccer players with ties to the club’s NCFC Youth Academy or North Carolina FC U23 team taking part in men’s college soccer this season. This week, six teams from North Carolina – all of which have players with ties to the club – are included in the latest United Soccer Coaches Poll. The week in review included the UNC/Duke Derby as well as important results for many teams attempting to improve on their NCAA Tournament resumes.

No. 7 UNC Wins Battle of the Blues Over Duke

No. 7 UNC Chapel Hill will have bragging rights over Duke after holding out for a 2-1 victory over their rivals in a neutral site matchup at MacPhearson Stadium over the weekend. A combined 17 players that have either played for NCFC Youth Academy or NCFC U23 were on the rosters for the local squads. Alan Winn (NCFC U23) scored the opening goal for UNC to help lead the Tar Heels to victory.

Following the weekend match, UNC and Duke both picked up midweek victories. UNC downed George Washington 4-1. Winn added two goals to his season tally – bringing him to six on the year, while Jeremy Kelly also scored for the Tar Heels.

Duke rebounded for a thrilling 4-3 victory over Wisconsin that saw both sides reduced to 10 men before the final whistle. NCFC U23 member Will Pulisic made four saves and logged an assist to help the Blue Devils clinch the victory.

NC State, Elon Battle to Scoreless Draw

Elon remained undefeated with a 0-0 draw against NC State in a midweek tilt. The Phoenix and Wolfpack entered the match with a combined 14 players with ties to the club. Both teams recorded eight shots each in 110 minutes of action, but neither team could find the back of the net and settled for a draw.

No. 18 UNCW Downs Delaware in Extra Time

No. 18 UNC Wilmington posted another shutout with a 1-0 (OT) victory over Delaware. The Seahawks’ backline helped former NCFC Youth Academy goalkeeper Ryan Cretens earned his fourth shutout of the season, while former Academy members Matt Gianfortone, Spencer Saunders, Huntley Munn, Ben Fisher and Jamil Gracia all saw time on the field.  

Mullins Earns Shutout for Charlotte

Austin Mullins (NCFC Youth Academy) is off to a good start between the posts for Charlotte. After a brief cameo in Charlotte’s 1-1 draw with Elon, Mullins earned the first shutout of his college career in the team’s 1-0 victory over Jacksonville. Mullins had a relatively quiet night and faced only one shot on frame to clinch the shutout.

Additional Notes:

  • Six schools from the North Carolina are included in the latest United Soccer Coaches Poll. Wake Forest leads the way at No. 4, UNC Chapel Hill is ranked No. 7 and UNC Wilmington checks in at No. 18, while Duke, NC State and Charlotte are all receiving votes and on the verge of cracking into the poll’s top-25 list.
  • Kenneth Perkinson ranks fifth in the NCAA in total saves with 40 in seven matches. The Winthrop goalkeeper has also picked up an assist in a 3-0 victory over Wofford.
  • Jason McCartney (NCFC Youth Academy) scored his team-leading third goal of the year in Emory’s 3-2 victory over Sewanee.
  • Matthew Zinner (NCFC Youth Academy) provided an assist in No. 3 Tufts University’s 2-0 victory over Trinity (Conn.).
  • Baboucarr Njie (NCFC U23) powered NC Wesleyan to victory with a hat trick in his team’s 4-0 victory over Covenant.
  • Steeve Pouna scored a goal in Baker University’s 2-0 win over Clarke University and added an assist in the team’s 2-0 victory over reigning NAIA National Champions Hasting College. Baker University has moved to No. 7 in the NAIA National rankings, while Pouna has scored two goals and provided two assists this season.
     

*All rankings based on Sep. 19 United Soccer Coaches Poll

Photo by Jeffery A. Camarati

The North Carolina Football Club has over 90 soccer players with ties to the club’s NCFC Youth Academy or North Carolina FC U23 team taking part in men’s college soccer this season. This week, six teams from North Carolina – all of which have players with ties to the club – are included in the latest United Soccer Coaches Poll. The week in review included the UNC/Duke Derby as well as important results for many teams attempting to improve on their NCAA Tournament resumes.

No. 7 UNC Wins Battle of the Blues Over Duke

No. 7 UNC Chapel Hill will have bragging rights over Duke after holding out for a 2-1 victory over their rivals in a neutral site matchup at MacPhearson Stadium over the weekend. A combined 17 players that have either played for NCFC Youth Academy or NCFC U23 were on the rosters for the local squads. Alan Winn (NCFC U23) scored the opening goal for UNC to help lead the Tar Heels to victory.

Following the weekend match, UNC and Duke both picked up midweek victories. UNC downed George Washington 4-1. Winn added two goals to his season tally – bringing him to six on the year, while Jeremy Kelly also scored for the Tar Heels.

Duke rebounded for a thrilling 4-3 victory over Wisconsin that saw both sides reduced to 10 men before the final whistle. NCFC U23 member Will Pulisic made four saves and logged an assist to help the Blue Devils clinch the victory.

NC State, Elon Battle to Scoreless Draw

Elon remained undefeated with a 0-0 draw against NC State in a midweek tilt. The Phoenix and Wolfpack entered the match with a combined 14 players with ties to the club. Both teams recorded eight shots each in 110 minutes of action, but neither team could find the back of the net and settled for a draw.

No. 18 UNCW Downs Delaware in Extra Time

No. 18 UNC Wilmington posted another shutout with a 1-0 (OT) victory over Delaware. The Seahawks’ backline helped former NCFC Youth Academy goalkeeper Ryan Cretens earned his fourth shutout of the season, while former Academy members Matt Gianfortone, Spencer Saunders, Huntley Munn, Ben Fisher and Jamil Gracia all saw time on the field.  

Mullins Earns Shutout for Charlotte

Austin Mullins (NCFC Youth Academy) is off to a good start between the posts for Charlotte. After a brief cameo in Charlotte’s 1-1 draw with Elon, Mullins earned the first shutout of his college career in the team’s 1-0 victory over Jacksonville. Mullins had a relatively quiet night and faced only one shot on frame to clinch the shutout.

Additional Notes:

  • Six schools from the North Carolina are included in the latest United Soccer Coaches Poll. Wake Forest leads the way at No. 4, UNC Chapel Hill is ranked No. 7 and UNC Wilmington checks in at No. 18, while Duke, NC State and Charlotte are all receiving votes and on the verge of cracking into the poll’s top-25 list.
  • Kenneth Perkinson ranks fifth in the NCAA in total saves with 40 in seven matches. The Winthrop goalkeeper has also picked up an assist in a 3-0 victory over Wofford.
  • Jason McCartney (NCFC Youth Academy) scored his team-leading third goal of the year in Emory’s 3-2 victory over Sewanee.
  • Matthew Zinner (NCFC Youth Academy) provided an assist in No. 3 Tufts University’s 2-0 victory over Trinity (Conn.).
  • Baboucarr Njie (NCFC U23) powered NC Wesleyan to victory with a hat trick in his team’s 4-0 victory over Covenant.
  • Steeve Pouna scored a goal in Baker University’s 2-0 win over Clarke University and added an assist in the team’s 2-0 victory over reigning NAIA National Champions Hasting College. Baker University has moved to No. 7 in the NAIA National rankings, while Pouna has scored two goals and provided two assists this season.
     

*All rankings based on Sep. 19 United Soccer Coaches Poll

Photo by Jeffery A. Camarati