2011 Archive

CARY, N.C. – Carolina RailHawks forward Etienne Barbara earned the NASL Golden Boot after leading the league in goals scored during the regular season.

Barbara’s 20 goals in 27 matches for the RailHawks were nearly twice as many as any other player in the league. Teammate Pablo Campos was second in the NASL with 12 goals. Barbara’s 20 goals marks just the sixth time in second division history that a player has reached that milestone, and it’s the first time since 2003.

“It’s amazing,” Barbara said. “I have to thank God for making it possible, for keeping me healthy and avoiding any long-term injuries. I also must thank my coaches and teammates. Without them, I could have never achieved it. It is never easy to lead a league with so many good players in scoring, but I worked hard throughout the whole season. I wish I could have scored more, but at the end of the day, I’m very happy.”

Barbara’s season-long scoring surge kicked off in earnest in the season opener on April 9. At WakeMed Soccer Park against Puerto Rico, he entered the match as a 79th-minute substitute – hours after completing a 15-hour journey back to the Triangle from his native Malta. He drew and then converted a penalty kick in the 86th minute to tie the match, and that goal kickstarted an eight-game goal-scoring streak and a 12-game point-scoring streak.

By the sixth game of the season, Barbara had nine goals to set a new RailHawks’ single-season goal-scoring record. And he did more than just score goals. His eight assists are tied for most in the league with teammate Jonny Steele. By season’s end, Barbara became the owner of six club records: most goals in a season, most assists in a season, most points in a season (48), most shots in a season (76), most goals in a career (28) and most points in a career (67).

He also had four multi-goal games, including the NASL’s first hat trick in a 4-2 win at Atlanta on Aug. 20. With 20 goals and eight assists., Barbara was a part of 56 percent of the RailHawks total goals scored this season (50).

Barbara and the Regular Season Champion RailHawks (17-3-8) begin the NASL Playoffs on Oct. 8, with the first leg of the semifinals. They’ll play the return leg on Oct. 15 at WakeMed Soccer Park at 7 p.m. As the No. 1 seed, the RailHawks will draw the lowest remaining seed after this weekend’s quarterfinal match-ups.

CARY, N.C. – Carolina RailHawks forward Etienne Barbara earned the NASL Golden Boot after leading the league in goals scored during the regular season.

Barbara’s 20 goals in 27 matches for the RailHawks were nearly twice as many as any other player in the league. Teammate Pablo Campos was second in the NASL with 12 goals. Barbara’s 20 goals marks just the sixth time in second division history that a player has reached that milestone, and it’s the first time since 2003.

“It’s amazing,” Barbara said. “I have to thank God for making it possible, for keeping me healthy and avoiding any long-term injuries. I also must thank my coaches and teammates. Without them, I could have never achieved it. It is never easy to lead a league with so many good players in scoring, but I worked hard throughout the whole season. I wish I could have scored more, but at the end of the day, I’m very happy.”

Barbara’s season-long scoring surge kicked off in earnest in the season opener on April 9. At WakeMed Soccer Park against Puerto Rico, he entered the match as a 79th-minute substitute – hours after completing a 15-hour journey back to the Triangle from his native Malta. He drew and then converted a penalty kick in the 86th minute to tie the match, and that goal kickstarted an eight-game goal-scoring streak and a 12-game point-scoring streak.

By the sixth game of the season, Barbara had nine goals to set a new RailHawks’ single-season goal-scoring record. And he did more than just score goals. His eight assists are tied for most in the league with teammate Jonny Steele. By season’s end, Barbara became the owner of six club records: most goals in a season, most assists in a season, most points in a season (48), most shots in a season (76), most goals in a career (28) and most points in a career (67).

He also had four multi-goal games, including the NASL’s first hat trick in a 4-2 win at Atlanta on Aug. 20. With 20 goals and eight assists., Barbara was a part of 56 percent of the RailHawks total goals scored this season (50).

Barbara and the Regular Season Champion RailHawks (17-3-8) begin the NASL Playoffs on Oct. 8, with the first leg of the semifinals. They’ll play the return leg on Oct. 15 at WakeMed Soccer Park at 7 p.m. As the No. 1 seed, the RailHawks will draw the lowest remaining seed after this weekend’s quarterfinal match-ups.

Before Saturday night’s regular-season finale at WakeMed Soccer Park, the RailHawks handed out their 2011 Team Awards in a pre-match ceremony.

Etienne Barbara was voted by his teammates as the RailHawks’ Offensive Player of the Year and Most Valuable Player. Barbara scored an NASL-leading 20 goals and his eight assists tied him with teammate Jonny Steele for tops on the NASL. By season’s end, Barbara became the owner of six club records: most goals in a season, most assists in a season, most points in a season (48), most shots in a season (76), most goals in a career (28) and most points in a career (67).

Goalkeeper Brad Knighton was named the RailHawks’ Defender of the Year. Knighton played every minute of the season in the RailHawks’ goal and is the only player to have appeared in every match this season. With a record of 17-3-8, he has 113 saves and posted eight shutouts and a 0.93 goals against average. His 17 wins and 113 saves are both single-season club records.

Captain Kupono Low received the Team Leadership Award. Low, in his fifth season with the RailHawks, became team captain in mid-July. He leads all RailHawks field players in minutes played this season (2,300) and he’s one of four players to have appeared in at least 25 matches. A rock at left back, he’s anchored the NASL’s leading defense all season.  

The WakeMed Health and Hospitals Unsung Hero Award went to midfielder Matt Watson. Watson, in his fourth season with the RailHawks, appeared in 24 matches this season and logged 2,031 minutes. He had three goals and two assists to his credit.

For the Fan Favorite Award, the RailHawks partnered with Triangle Soccer Fanatics to present the honor to forward Pablo Campos. Campos was second in the NASL with 12 goals this season. He appeared in 25 matches and logged 1,907 minutes in his first season with the RailHawks.

Finally, goalkeeper Sean O’Connor, midfielder Brian Farber and midfielder Nick Zimmerman were the recipients of the Summit Award, presented by Summit Hospitality. Summit Hospitality recognized the trio for their community service efforts during the course of the 2011 season. Each received a guest suite for two nights at the Homewood Suites Pinehurst, two rounds of golf at the Legacy Golf Course and Whispering Pines, lunch for two at Thai Basil and Dugan’s, and dinner for two a Nina’s and The Barn.

Before Saturday night’s regular-season finale at WakeMed Soccer Park, the RailHawks handed out their 2011 Team Awards in a pre-match ceremony.

Etienne Barbara was voted by his teammates as the RailHawks’ Offensive Player of the Year and Most Valuable Player. Barbara scored an NASL-leading 20 goals and his eight assists tied him with teammate Jonny Steele for tops on the NASL. By season’s end, Barbara became the owner of six club records: most goals in a season, most assists in a season, most points in a season (48), most shots in a season (76), most goals in a career (28) and most points in a career (67).

Goalkeeper Brad Knighton was named the RailHawks’ Defender of the Year. Knighton played every minute of the season in the RailHawks’ goal and is the only player to have appeared in every match this season. With a record of 17-3-8, he has 113 saves and posted eight shutouts and a 0.93 goals against average. His 17 wins and 113 saves are both single-season club records.

Captain Kupono Low received the Team Leadership Award. Low, in his fifth season with the RailHawks, became team captain in mid-July. He leads all RailHawks field players in minutes played this season (2,300) and he’s one of four players to have appeared in at least 25 matches. A rock at left back, he’s anchored the NASL’s leading defense all season.  

The WakeMed Health and Hospitals Unsung Hero Award went to midfielder Matt Watson. Watson, in his fourth season with the RailHawks, appeared in 24 matches this season and logged 2,031 minutes. He had three goals and two assists to his credit.

For the Fan Favorite Award, the RailHawks partnered with Triangle Soccer Fanatics to present the honor to forward Pablo Campos. Campos was second in the NASL with 12 goals this season. He appeared in 25 matches and logged 1,907 minutes in his first season with the RailHawks.

Finally, goalkeeper Sean O’Connor, midfielder Brian Farber and midfielder Nick Zimmerman were the recipients of the Summit Award, presented by Summit Hospitality. Summit Hospitality recognized the trio for their community service efforts during the course of the 2011 season. Each received a guest suite for two nights at the Homewood Suites Pinehurst, two rounds of golf at the Legacy Golf Course and Whispering Pines, lunch for two at Thai Basil and Dugan’s, and dinner for two a Nina’s and The Barn.

Cary, N.C. – The Vancouver Whitecaps announced today the addition of Paul Ritchie to Martin Rennie’s coaching staff.  Ritchie originally joined the RailHawks organization in 2009 as a central defender in Martin Rennie’s first year in Carolina.  An injury sidelined him for much of the 2009 season and Ritchie eventually became Rennie’s top assistant for the 2010 and 2011 seasons.

Prior to his arrival in Carolina, Ritchie enjoyed a successful playing career in Europe, where he starred with Heart of Midlothian in the Scottish Premier League from 1992 – 2000.  His club playing career also included time with Rangers and Dundee United of the Scottish Premier League and Machester City, Bolton Wanderers, and Walsall in England.  From 1999 to 2004 Ritchie made seven appearances for the Scottish National Team, scoring one goal.      

“I loved my time at Carolina and it truly was a fantastic place to start my coaching career,” said Ritchie. “The facilities, the people and the supporters will live with me forever and make it difficult to leave.  I wish the organization, the players and the supporters all the best for the future.”

Ritchie used his previous experiences as a player to help lead the RailHawks to their most successful seasons, including an NASL Conference title and Championship Finalist finish in 2010 and a NASL Regular Season Championship in 2011.  This past season, the RailHawks had the stingiest defense in the North American Soccer League, only conceding 26 goals in 28 matches.

“Paul has been an integral part of the on-field success of the RailHawks over the past couple of years,” said RailHawks President, Curt Johnson.  “We wish him and his family well and thank him for the excellent work he has done while an assistant coach with the club.”

The search for the next head coach is ongoing as the RailHawks seek a replacement after Martin Rennie’s departure for the Vancouver Whitecaps of Major League Soccer.  More information on a head coaching announcement and press conference will be made in the coming weeks.

Cary, N.C. – The Vancouver Whitecaps announced today the addition of Paul Ritchie to Martin Rennie’s coaching staff.  Ritchie originally joined the RailHawks organization in 2009 as a central defender in Martin Rennie’s first year in Carolina.  An injury sidelined him for much of the 2009 season and Ritchie eventually became Rennie’s top assistant for the 2010 and 2011 seasons.

Prior to his arrival in Carolina, Ritchie enjoyed a successful playing career in Europe, where he starred with Heart of Midlothian in the Scottish Premier League from 1992 – 2000.  His club playing career also included time with Rangers and Dundee United of the Scottish Premier League and Machester City, Bolton Wanderers, and Walsall in England.  From 1999 to 2004 Ritchie made seven appearances for the Scottish National Team, scoring one goal.      

“I loved my time at Carolina and it truly was a fantastic place to start my coaching career,” said Ritchie. “The facilities, the people and the supporters will live with me forever and make it difficult to leave.  I wish the organization, the players and the supporters all the best for the future.”

Ritchie used his previous experiences as a player to help lead the RailHawks to their most successful seasons, including an NASL Conference title and Championship Finalist finish in 2010 and a NASL Regular Season Championship in 2011.  This past season, the RailHawks had the stingiest defense in the North American Soccer League, only conceding 26 goals in 28 matches.

“Paul has been an integral part of the on-field success of the RailHawks over the past couple of years,” said RailHawks President, Curt Johnson.  “We wish him and his family well and thank him for the excellent work he has done while an assistant coach with the club.”

The search for the next head coach is ongoing as the RailHawks seek a replacement after Martin Rennie’s departure for the Vancouver Whitecaps of Major League Soccer.  More information on a head coaching announcement and press conference will be made in the coming weeks.

FT. LAUDERALE, Fla. – The Carolina RailHawks clinched the NASL Regular Season Championship and the No. 1 seed in the NASL Playoffs Wednesday night. While they suffered a 1-0 loss at Ft. Lauderdale, they cemented their place at the top of the table by virtue of Puerto Rico’s 1-1 home tie against Montreal.

The RailHawks (17-4-4) are eight points clear and have a game in hand on Puerto Rico, which has two games remaining on its calendar.

“It’s a big, big achievement for us,” said RailHawks coach Martin Rennie. “It was a goal for the season and we’re satisfied we’ve achieved it. To be the top team in the NASL is something the club can build on and it’s a reward for everybody’s hard work and the quality the entire organization has produced this season.”

The RailHawks have been at the top of the table since late April, and they saw their lead balloon to as many as 16 points over the course of their landmark season. Clinching their first piece of silverware adds to the list of club records the RailHawks have already set or are closing in on as the regular season draws to a close.

“Now we have to be the team to finish strong and accomplish our other goal, which is to win in the playoffs,” said Rennie, whose team will begin postseason play with a bye to the semifinals.

Clinching the championship Wednesday softened the setback of having their three-match winning streak and four-match unbeaten run ended.

Simply put, the RailHawks just didn’t have it against the Strikers.

The RailHawks were held to one shot in the first half and finished the night with two, neither of which were on target. Ft. Lauderdale’s Matt Glaeser earned a clean sheet without making a save, and the result marked just the third time this season the RailHawks were held scoreless.

Brad Knighton was called on to make three saves for Carolina, which allowed only seven shots.

Ft. Lauderdale had the run of play for much of the evening, but a goal didn’t materialize until early in the second half. In the 52nd minute, Lance Laing snuck down the left flank, collected the ball near the edge of the area and spotted Abe Thompson open in front of the goal for the tap-in.

“I guess the quality wasn’t very high tonight, which is unusual for us,” Rennie said. “We worked hard and gave a strong effort, but we lost concentration for a split second and it cost us. When the quality is not there, you hope for a tie. Brad didn’t have to make many saves tonight, and we didn’t make Glaeser make any either. So we didn’t do well enough to make it happen. Well done to Fort Lauderdale. They beat us twice this season.”

Wednesday’s match kicked off a three-game road trip for the RailHawks. They’ll travel to Montreal for a Sunday matinee at Saputo Stadium, then head to Puerto Rico for the final regular-season road match on Sept. 17. They close out the regular season at WakeMed Soccer Park on Sept. 24 against Minnesota.

FT. LAUDERDALE 1, CAROLINA 0

LINEUPS

CAR: GK Brad Knighton, D Floyd Franks, D Kupono Low, D Gareth Evans, D Tyler Lassiter, M Tony McManus, M Matt Watson (Cory Elenio, 79), M Jonny Steele, F Pablo Campos, F Allan Russell (Stephen Glass, 75), F Nick Zimmerman (Brian Farber, 63)
FTL:GK Matt Glaeser, D Scott Gordon, D Martin Lancaster, D Toni Stahl, D Lance Laing, M Leopoldo Morales (Yoximar Granado, 89), M Bran Arguez, M Gerson Mayen, M Mike Palacio (Eduardo Coudet, 80), F Brian Shriver (Peka, 70), F Abe Thompson

SCORING SUMMARY

FTL: Abe Thompson (Lance Laing), 52

CAUTIONS

CAR: Tyler Lassiter, 23; Nick Zimmerman, 40;
FTL: Scott Gordon 21; Abe Thompson, 54

SHOTS

CAR: 2
FTL: 7 

FOULS

CAR: 16
FTL: 14

Attendance: 2,159

FT. LAUDERALE, Fla. – The Carolina RailHawks clinched the NASL Regular Season Championship and the No. 1 seed in the NASL Playoffs Wednesday night. While they suffered a 1-0 loss at Ft. Lauderdale, they cemented their place at the top of the table by virtue of Puerto Rico’s 1-1 home tie against Montreal.

The RailHawks (17-4-4) are eight points clear and have a game in hand on Puerto Rico, which has two games remaining on its calendar.

“It’s a big, big achievement for us,” said RailHawks coach Martin Rennie. “It was a goal for the season and we’re satisfied we’ve achieved it. To be the top team in the NASL is something the club can build on and it’s a reward for everybody’s hard work and the quality the entire organization has produced this season.”

The RailHawks have been at the top of the table since late April, and they saw their lead balloon to as many as 16 points over the course of their landmark season. Clinching their first piece of silverware adds to the list of club records the RailHawks have already set or are closing in on as the regular season draws to a close.

“Now we have to be the team to finish strong and accomplish our other goal, which is to win in the playoffs,” said Rennie, whose team will begin postseason play with a bye to the semifinals.

Clinching the championship Wednesday softened the setback of having their three-match winning streak and four-match unbeaten run ended.

Simply put, the RailHawks just didn’t have it against the Strikers.

The RailHawks were held to one shot in the first half and finished the night with two, neither of which were on target. Ft. Lauderdale’s Matt Glaeser earned a clean sheet without making a save, and the result marked just the third time this season the RailHawks were held scoreless.

Brad Knighton was called on to make three saves for Carolina, which allowed only seven shots.

Ft. Lauderdale had the run of play for much of the evening, but a goal didn’t materialize until early in the second half. In the 52nd minute, Lance Laing snuck down the left flank, collected the ball near the edge of the area and spotted Abe Thompson open in front of the goal for the tap-in.

“I guess the quality wasn’t very high tonight, which is unusual for us,” Rennie said. “We worked hard and gave a strong effort, but we lost concentration for a split second and it cost us. When the quality is not there, you hope for a tie. Brad didn’t have to make many saves tonight, and we didn’t make Glaeser make any either. So we didn’t do well enough to make it happen. Well done to Fort Lauderdale. They beat us twice this season.”

Wednesday’s match kicked off a three-game road trip for the RailHawks. They’ll travel to Montreal for a Sunday matinee at Saputo Stadium, then head to Puerto Rico for the final regular-season road match on Sept. 17. They close out the regular season at WakeMed Soccer Park on Sept. 24 against Minnesota.

FT. LAUDERDALE 1, CAROLINA 0

LINEUPS

CAR: GK Brad Knighton, D Floyd Franks, D Kupono Low, D Gareth Evans, D Tyler Lassiter, M Tony McManus, M Matt Watson (Cory Elenio, 79), M Jonny Steele, F Pablo Campos, F Allan Russell (Stephen Glass, 75), F Nick Zimmerman (Brian Farber, 63)
FTL:GK Matt Glaeser, D Scott Gordon, D Martin Lancaster, D Toni Stahl, D Lance Laing, M Leopoldo Morales (Yoximar Granado, 89), M Bran Arguez, M Gerson Mayen, M Mike Palacio (Eduardo Coudet, 80), F Brian Shriver (Peka, 70), F Abe Thompson

SCORING SUMMARY

FTL: Abe Thompson (Lance Laing), 52

CAUTIONS

CAR: Tyler Lassiter, 23; Nick Zimmerman, 40;
FTL: Scott Gordon 21; Abe Thompson, 54

SHOTS

CAR: 2
FTL: 7 

FOULS

CAR: 16
FTL: 14

Attendance: 2,159

Two Carolina RailHawks have been called up to their respective national teams and will step away from the club in order to participate in the second round of CONCACAF World Cup Qualifying, which begins this week.

Defender John Krause has been called into camp with Puerto Rico, and midfielder Chris Nurse will represent Guyana.  Both players have already departed RailHawks camp and joined their respective national teams.

“John and Chris have had excellent seasons this year,” said Head Coach Martin Rennie.  “Both will be missed and are expected to be major contributors for their respective national teams.  It’s very exciting and an honor for both individuals and the RailHawks organization.”

Krause has been capped by Puerto Rico five times.  He made his international debut on Oct. 2, 2010, and scored his first goal in a Caribbean Championship match two days later.

In his first season with the RailHawks, Krause has appeared in 20 matches, played 1,768 minutes, scored one goal and anchored the NASL’s best defense (0.91 goals against average).

“It’s an exciting opportunity and a great feeling to be able to represent a country,” said Krause.  “I spent a number of years in Puerto Rico and I am proud to be able to represent the people of Puerto Rico.  The ability to participate in World Cup qualifying is a great accomplishment and look forward to competing on the international level.”

Nurse has seven caps to his credit for Guyana.  He made his international debut in November 2008 at the Caribbean Championships, and he last appeared for Guyana on Nov. 17, 2010 in a friendly against Guatemala.

Nurse, also in his first season with the RailHawks, has appeared in 18 matches, logged 1,171 minutes and scored one goal and three assists.

“Any time you get called up to represent a country it’s a great achievement,” said Nurse.  “This will be my eighth cap for Guyana and they have a new manager that has been really successful in Trinidad.  It’s going to be very exciting and we have a good chance of qualifying.”

In this round of World Cup Qualifying, teams are placed into groups and will play a round-robin format.  The winner of each group advances on to the next stage of qualifying.

Puerto Rico is paired with St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia and Canada in Group D.  Puerto Rico will face Saint Kitts and Nevis on Friday in Basseterre, St. Kitts and Nevis, and Canada on Sept. 6 in Bayamon, Puerto Rico. 

Guyana is grouped with Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados and Bermuda. Guyana begins play in Group B on Friday against Barbados, and the Golden Jaguars will also face Bermuda on Sept. 6. Both matches will be played in Providence, Guyana.

The RailHawks, meanwhile, will look to extend their lead at the top of the NASL table on Saturday, when they face Tampa Bay at WakeMed Soccer Park at 7 p.m. The RailHawks, winners of their last two matches, are six points clear at the top of the NASL table with five games remaining.

Two Carolina RailHawks have been called up to their respective national teams and will step away from the club in order to participate in the second round of CONCACAF World Cup Qualifying, which begins this week.

Defender John Krause has been called into camp with Puerto Rico, and midfielder Chris Nurse will represent Guyana.  Both players have already departed RailHawks camp and joined their respective national teams.

“John and Chris have had excellent seasons this year,” said Head Coach Martin Rennie.  “Both will be missed and are expected to be major contributors for their respective national teams.  It’s very exciting and an honor for both individuals and the RailHawks organization.”

Krause has been capped by Puerto Rico five times.  He made his international debut on Oct. 2, 2010, and scored his first goal in a Caribbean Championship match two days later.

In his first season with the RailHawks, Krause has appeared in 20 matches, played 1,768 minutes, scored one goal and anchored the NASL’s best defense (0.91 goals against average).

“It’s an exciting opportunity and a great feeling to be able to represent a country,” said Krause.  “I spent a number of years in Puerto Rico and I am proud to be able to represent the people of Puerto Rico.  The ability to participate in World Cup qualifying is a great accomplishment and look forward to competing on the international level.”

Nurse has seven caps to his credit for Guyana.  He made his international debut in November 2008 at the Caribbean Championships, and he last appeared for Guyana on Nov. 17, 2010 in a friendly against Guatemala.

Nurse, also in his first season with the RailHawks, has appeared in 18 matches, logged 1,171 minutes and scored one goal and three assists.

“Any time you get called up to represent a country it’s a great achievement,” said Nurse.  “This will be my eighth cap for Guyana and they have a new manager that has been really successful in Trinidad.  It’s going to be very exciting and we have a good chance of qualifying.”

In this round of World Cup Qualifying, teams are placed into groups and will play a round-robin format.  The winner of each group advances on to the next stage of qualifying.

Puerto Rico is paired with St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia and Canada in Group D.  Puerto Rico will face Saint Kitts and Nevis on Friday in Basseterre, St. Kitts and Nevis, and Canada on Sept. 6 in Bayamon, Puerto Rico. 

Guyana is grouped with Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados and Bermuda. Guyana begins play in Group B on Friday against Barbados, and the Golden Jaguars will also face Bermuda on Sept. 6. Both matches will be played in Providence, Guyana.

The RailHawks, meanwhile, will look to extend their lead at the top of the NASL table on Saturday, when they face Tampa Bay at WakeMed Soccer Park at 7 p.m. The RailHawks, winners of their last two matches, are six points clear at the top of the NASL table with five games remaining.

CARY, N.C. – After three immensely successful seasons with the Carolina RailHawks, head coach Martin Rennie will move on to Major League Soccer.

Rennie was unveiled as the new head coach of Major League Soccer’s Vancouver Whitecaps FC in a press conference in Vancouver on Tuesday. Rennie will remain with the RailHawks through the end of the 2011 NASL season before moving on to Vancouver.

“It’s an exciting opportunity to coach in Major League Soccer,” said RailHawks Head Coach Martin Rennie.  “It is difficult to leave after three great years in Carolina.  I have had the opportunity to work with excellent people and enjoyed my time becoming part of the community.  Great strides have been made and there is a strong foundation in place for the next coach to come in and be successful.” 

With the RailHawks, Rennie has 52 wins, 26 ties and 22 losses in all competitions since taking over the team in 2009. His RailHawks teams have been marked by prolific offenses and air-tight defenses. The RailHawks have scored 127 goals in 79 matches under Rennie, while posting 31 shutouts and a cumulative 0.85 goals against average. This season, the team’s 40 goals scored are tied for the most in all of U.S. professional soccer. Last year, their 44 goals were tied for the third most in the nation.

The RailHawks are in the midst of their best season under Rennie. They’ve compiled a 14-2-3 record and lead the NASL by 12 points with nine games remaining in the regular season. They have already qualified for the playoffs. After falling in their season opener, the RailHawks went unbeaten over their next 13 matches (12-0-1), which also included a 10-match winning streak.

“On behalf of the entire RailHawks organization and our owners, Traffic Sports, I want to congratulate Martin,” said RailHawks President Curt Johnson.  “This is a well deserved opportunity.  Vancouver is getting a talented, driven coach and someone who will represent their organization with a high level of professionalism.  The RailHawks organization is in a unique position as we move toward the end of the regular season and the playoffs.  I know Martin and our players are very focused on performing at their best in this big moment.  When the time comes after our season we will celebrate with Martin and wish him well.”

In 2009, his first season with Carolina, Rennie guided the RailHawks to a 16-7-7 regular-season record, a runner-up finish in the USL First Division and a berth in the USL-1 quarterfinals. In just one season under Rennie, the RailHawks established new team records for wins, points, shutouts, goals scored, goals allowed and longest winning streak, among more than three dozen others.

In 2010, Rennie guided the RailHawks to the NASL Conference championship during the regular season. And after winning their first-ever playoff series in the quarterfinals, the RailHawks went on to the championship finals.

Prior to joining the RailHawks, Rennie coached the USL-2's Cleveland City Stars in 2007-08. In two seasons, he compiled a 23-5-16 record and won the 2008 USL Second Division championship. He was twice named the USL-2 coach of the year.

Rennie began his coaching career in 2005 with the Cascade Surge of the USL’s Premier Development League. The Surge placed sixth (12-2-2, 38 points) in the 54-team PDL. They won their division and the league's Fair Play award and qualified for the U.S. Open Cup for the only time in the club’s history.

Rennie and the RailHawks resume their season on Saturday, when they travel to Puerto Rico to meet the Islanders at 7:30 p.m.  Rennie will be available to discuss his new appointment after training on Thursday at 12p.m.

CARY, N.C. – After three immensely successful seasons with the Carolina RailHawks, head coach Martin Rennie will move on to Major League Soccer.

Rennie was unveiled as the new head coach of Major League Soccer’s Vancouver Whitecaps FC in a press conference in Vancouver on Tuesday. Rennie will remain with the RailHawks through the end of the 2011 NASL season before moving on to Vancouver.

“It’s an exciting opportunity to coach in Major League Soccer,” said RailHawks Head Coach Martin Rennie.  “It is difficult to leave after three great years in Carolina.  I have had the opportunity to work with excellent people and enjoyed my time becoming part of the community.  Great strides have been made and there is a strong foundation in place for the next coach to come in and be successful.” 

With the RailHawks, Rennie has 52 wins, 26 ties and 22 losses in all competitions since taking over the team in 2009. His RailHawks teams have been marked by prolific offenses and air-tight defenses. The RailHawks have scored 127 goals in 79 matches under Rennie, while posting 31 shutouts and a cumulative 0.85 goals against average. This season, the team’s 40 goals scored are tied for the most in all of U.S. professional soccer. Last year, their 44 goals were tied for the third most in the nation.

The RailHawks are in the midst of their best season under Rennie. They’ve compiled a 14-2-3 record and lead the NASL by 12 points with nine games remaining in the regular season. They have already qualified for the playoffs. After falling in their season opener, the RailHawks went unbeaten over their next 13 matches (12-0-1), which also included a 10-match winning streak.

“On behalf of the entire RailHawks organization and our owners, Traffic Sports, I want to congratulate Martin,” said RailHawks President Curt Johnson.  “This is a well deserved opportunity.  Vancouver is getting a talented, driven coach and someone who will represent their organization with a high level of professionalism.  The RailHawks organization is in a unique position as we move toward the end of the regular season and the playoffs.  I know Martin and our players are very focused on performing at their best in this big moment.  When the time comes after our season we will celebrate with Martin and wish him well.”

In 2009, his first season with Carolina, Rennie guided the RailHawks to a 16-7-7 regular-season record, a runner-up finish in the USL First Division and a berth in the USL-1 quarterfinals. In just one season under Rennie, the RailHawks established new team records for wins, points, shutouts, goals scored, goals allowed and longest winning streak, among more than three dozen others.

In 2010, Rennie guided the RailHawks to the NASL Conference championship during the regular season. And after winning their first-ever playoff series in the quarterfinals, the RailHawks went on to the championship finals.

Prior to joining the RailHawks, Rennie coached the USL-2’s Cleveland City Stars in 2007-08. In two seasons, he compiled a 23-5-16 record and won the 2008 USL Second Division championship. He was twice named the USL-2 coach of the year.

Rennie began his coaching career in 2005 with the Cascade Surge of the USL’s Premier Development League. The Surge placed sixth (12-2-2, 38 points) in the 54-team PDL. They won their division and the league’s Fair Play award and qualified for the U.S. Open Cup for the only time in the club’s history.

Rennie and the RailHawks resume their season on Saturday, when they travel to Puerto Rico to meet the Islanders at 7:30 p.m.  Rennie will be available to discuss his new appointment after training on Thursday at 12p.m.

CARY, N.C. – As a result of a new initiative in 2011, the Carolina RailHawks were able to give more than 3,000 children and their families the opportunity to attend the RailHawks’ 1-0 win over Atlanta last Saturday at WakeMed Soccer Park. 

More than 30 Triangle businesses and individuals made a tax deductible donation to the RailHawks Kicks for Kids program, and the donations went toward purchasing tickets to enable children and their families who might not otherwise be able to attend the opportunity to see the NASL’s first-place team.

Lulu, Performance Automall, Wal-Mart, Eye Care Center, Color Graphic, Progress Energy, Alfred Williams & Company, Dreamsports Center, Eurosport, Playbook Management International and Staker Chiropractic Center, Regions Bank, Cricket Wireless, Challa Law Offices, Doe & Ingalls, Glass Doctor, Stanley Dentistry, CEI, eTix, KIX 102.9 FM, Ink Waves and Carolantic Realty were among the leading contributors toward this new effort.

“The RailHawks’ organization wants to thank the 30-plus businesses and individuals that supported our 2011 Kicks for Kids Program,” said RailHawks president Curt Johnson. “We are thrilled that more than 3,000 children and family members that would not normally have had the opportunity to see a professional sporting event in person had the opportunity as a result of our partners’ generosity.” 

The NASL-leading RailHawks (14-2-2) play their next two games on the road – Saturday at Ft. Lauderdale and Aug. 13 at Puerto Rico – before returning to WakeMed Soccer Park to face Minnesota on Aug. 17 at 7 p.m.

CARY, N.C. – As a result of a new initiative in 2011, the Carolina RailHawks were able to give more than 3,000 children and their families the opportunity to attend the RailHawks’ 1-0 win over Atlanta last Saturday at WakeMed Soccer Park. 

More than 30 Triangle businesses and individuals made a tax deductible donation to the RailHawks Kicks for Kids program, and the donations went toward purchasing tickets to enable children and their families who might not otherwise be able to attend the opportunity to see the NASL’s first-place team.

Lulu, Performance Automall, Wal-Mart, Eye Care Center, Color Graphic, Progress Energy, Alfred Williams & Company, Dreamsports Center, Eurosport, Playbook Management International and Staker Chiropractic Center, Regions Bank, Cricket Wireless, Challa Law Offices, Doe & Ingalls, Glass Doctor, Stanley Dentistry, CEI, eTix, KIX 102.9 FM, Ink Waves and Carolantic Realty were among the leading contributors toward this new effort.

“The RailHawks’ organization wants to thank the 30-plus businesses and individuals that supported our 2011 Kicks for Kids Program,” said RailHawks president Curt Johnson. “We are thrilled that more than 3,000 children and family members that would not normally have had the opportunity to see a professional sporting event in person had the opportunity as a result of our partners’ generosity.” 

The NASL-leading RailHawks (14-2-2) play their next two games on the road – Saturday at Ft. Lauderdale and Aug. 13 at Puerto Rico – before returning to WakeMed Soccer Park to face Minnesota on Aug. 17 at 7 p.m.

Game Tickets Now on Sale at WakeMed Soccer Park Box Office
CD Guadalajara and Juventus FC Rosters Below

 

CARY, N.C. (July 20, 2011) – The Carolina RailHawks, in conjunction with the Herbalife World Football Challenge, and the Town of Cary will host the CD Guadalajara (Chivas) and Juventus FC training sessions on Wednesday, July 27 at WakeMed Soccer Park.  Juventus FC will train from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and Chivas will train from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. local time.

 To gain entrance into both training sessions, all individuals must bring their July 28 Chivas – Juventus FC match ticket.  Match tickets will also be available for purchase onsite at the WakeMed Soccer Park Box Office.  Tickets prices range from $25 to $150 and all price levels will be on sale at WakeMed Soccer Park from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 21 and Friday, July 22; noon to 8:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 23; and 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday of the following week.

 “The RailHawks are thrilled to be able to host Chivas and Juventus here at WakeMed Soccer Park,” said RailHawks President Curt Johnson.  This training session will bring fans and media attention from all over the world to the Triangle.  This is a can’t miss opportunity for fans to see some of the world’s biggest stars.”

 Chivas, the 11-time Mexican national champions, and Juventus FC, the 27-time Italian national champions, are set to meet at Carter-Finley Stadium on Thursday, July 28, at 8:00 p.m. as a part of the Herbalife World Football Challenge.  The Herbalife World Football Challenge runs from July 13 through August 6 in major cities through North America and includes teams from England, Spain, Mexico, Italy, Portugal, and Major League Soccer.

 The match between Chivas and Juventus FC is the latest high-level, world-class soccer match to come to the Triangle and WakeMed Soccer Park in 2011. The U.S. Men’s National Team twice came to the area during the spring in preparation for a friendly against Argentina and the CONCACAF Gold Cup. On May 18, the U.S. Women’s National Team squared-off against Japan in what proved to be a preview of the World Cup Final.

 The Triangle’s own professional soccer team, the Carolina RailHawks, resumes its NASL season on Saturday at WakeMed Soccer Park, when they will meet FC Edmonton at 7:00 p.m. The RailHawks (12-2-2) remain on top of the NASL table by 12 points with 14 games remaining in the regular season.

 For tickets and information, call the box office at 919-459-8144 or visit CarolinaRailHawks.com.

  

Rosters:

 

CD Guadalajara Roster                                           Juventus FC

Name                                                                          Name                                     

Mario De Luna                                                          Andrea Barzagli
Arturo Ledesma                                                       Leonardo Bonucci
Hector Reynoso                                                       Gianluigi Buffon
Patricio Aravjo                                                           Giorgio Chiellini
Omar Esparza                                                          Paolo De Ceglie
Luis Michel                                                                Alessandro Del Piero
Marco Fabian                                                            Elio De Silvestro
Omar Arellano                                                          Manuel Giandonato
Alberto Medina                                                         Zdenek Grygera
Julio Nava                                                                 Ciro Immobile
Miguel Ponce                                                           Milos Krasic
Jesus Sanchez                                                        Stephan Lichtsteiner
Xavier Baez                                                               Alexander Manninger
Jonny Magallon                                                        Claudio Marchisio
Edgar Mejia                                                               Luca Marrone
Hugo Hernandez                                                      Jorge Andres Martinez
Jorge Mora                                                                 Alessandro Matri
Antonio Gallardo                                                       Marco Motta
Antonio Salazar                                                         Cristian Pasquato
Juan Orozco                                                               Michele Pazienza
Carlos Fierro                                                              Simone Pepe
Luis Solorio                                                                Andrea Pirlo
Giovanni Casillas                                                      Fabio Quagliarella
Jose Pablo Totado                                                    Frederic Sorensen
                                                                                      Marco Storari
                                                                                      Luca Toni
                                                                                      Reto Pirmin Ziegler

Game Tickets Now on Sale at WakeMed Soccer Park Box Office
CD Guadalajara and Juventus FC Rosters Below

 

CARY, N.C. (July 20, 2011) – The Carolina RailHawks, in conjunction with the Herbalife World Football Challenge, and the Town of Cary will host the CD Guadalajara (Chivas) and Juventus FC training sessions on Wednesday, July 27 at WakeMed Soccer Park.  Juventus FC will train from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and Chivas will train from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. local time.

 To gain entrance into both training sessions, all individuals must bring their July 28 Chivas – Juventus FC match ticket.  Match tickets will also be available for purchase onsite at the WakeMed Soccer Park Box Office.  Tickets prices range from $25 to $150 and all price levels will be on sale at WakeMed Soccer Park from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 21 and Friday, July 22; noon to 8:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 23; and 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday of the following week.

 “The RailHawks are thrilled to be able to host Chivas and Juventus here at WakeMed Soccer Park,” said RailHawks President Curt Johnson.  This training session will bring fans and media attention from all over the world to the Triangle.  This is a can’t miss opportunity for fans to see some of the world’s biggest stars.”

 Chivas, the 11-time Mexican national champions, and Juventus FC, the 27-time Italian national champions, are set to meet at Carter-Finley Stadium on Thursday, July 28, at 8:00 p.m. as a part of the Herbalife World Football Challenge.  The Herbalife World Football Challenge runs from July 13 through August 6 in major cities through North America and includes teams from England, Spain, Mexico, Italy, Portugal, and Major League Soccer.

 The match between Chivas and Juventus FC is the latest high-level, world-class soccer match to come to the Triangle and WakeMed Soccer Park in 2011. The U.S. Men’s National Team twice came to the area during the spring in preparation for a friendly against Argentina and the CONCACAF Gold Cup. On May 18, the U.S. Women’s National Team squared-off against Japan in what proved to be a preview of the World Cup Final.

 The Triangle’s own professional soccer team, the Carolina RailHawks, resumes its NASL season on Saturday at WakeMed Soccer Park, when they will meet FC Edmonton at 7:00 p.m. The RailHawks (12-2-2) remain on top of the NASL table by 12 points with 14 games remaining in the regular season.

 For tickets and information, call the box office at 919-459-8144 or visit CarolinaRailHawks.com.

  

Rosters:

 

CD Guadalajara Roster                                           Juventus FC

Name                                                                          Name                                     

Mario De Luna                                                          Andrea Barzagli
Arturo Ledesma                                                       Leonardo Bonucci
Hector Reynoso                                                       Gianluigi Buffon
Patricio Aravjo                                                           Giorgio Chiellini
Omar Esparza                                                          Paolo De Ceglie
Luis Michel                                                                Alessandro Del Piero
Marco Fabian                                                            Elio De Silvestro
Omar Arellano                                                          Manuel Giandonato
Alberto Medina                                                         Zdenek Grygera
Julio Nava                                                                 Ciro Immobile
Miguel Ponce                                                           Milos Krasic
Jesus Sanchez                                                        Stephan Lichtsteiner
Xavier Baez                                                               Alexander Manninger
Jonny Magallon                                                        Claudio Marchisio
Edgar Mejia                                                               Luca Marrone
Hugo Hernandez                                                      Jorge Andres Martinez
Jorge Mora                                                                 Alessandro Matri
Antonio Gallardo                                                       Marco Motta
Antonio Salazar                                                         Cristian Pasquato
Juan Orozco                                                               Michele Pazienza
Carlos Fierro                                                              Simone Pepe
Luis Solorio                                                                Andrea Pirlo
Giovanni Casillas                                                      Fabio Quagliarella
Jose Pablo Totado                                                    Frederic Sorensen
                                                                                      Marco Storari
                                                                                      Luca Toni
                                                                                      Reto Pirmin Ziegler

The Carolina RailHawks U-23’s won the USASA U-23 National Cup Championship after a 4 – 0 victory over Scott Gallagher of St. Louis on Sunday morning in Bowling Green, Kentucky.  The RailHawks were victorious in the semifinal round on Friday night with a 6 – 2 result against Lazio of Utah.

TJ Beaulieu and Billy Schuler led the RailHawks U-23’s with four and three goals, respectively.  Beailieu scored two in each match and Schuler recorded a hat-trick in the semifinal game.  Adrian Ortiz, Gabe Latigue, and Ferrety Sousa each tallied one goal as the RailHawks U-23’s finished the tournament with a +8 goal differential.

The RailHawks are led by Head Coach Dewan Bader and assistants Henry Gutierrez and Rick King.  The RailHawks U-23’s program is sponsored JRW Associates (www.jrwassoc.com), a United Benefit Advisors firm that covers over 10 million members.

The Carolina RailHawks U-23’s won the USASA U-23 National Cup Championship after a 4 – 0 victory over Scott Gallagher of St. Louis on Sunday morning in Bowling Green, Kentucky.  The RailHawks were victorious in the semifinal round on Friday night with a 6 – 2 result against Lazio of Utah.

TJ Beaulieu and Billy Schuler led the RailHawks U-23’s with four and three goals, respectively.  Beailieu scored two in each match and Schuler recorded a hat-trick in the semifinal game.  Adrian Ortiz, Gabe Latigue, and Ferrety Sousa each tallied one goal as the RailHawks U-23’s finished the tournament with a +8 goal differential.

The RailHawks are led by Head Coach Dewan Bader and assistants Henry Gutierrez and Rick King.  The RailHawks U-23’s program is sponsored JRW Associates (www.jrwassoc.com), a United Benefit Advisors firm that covers over 10 million members.

CARY, N.C. – Carolina RailHawks captain Brad Rusin will transfer to HB Køge of the Danish Superliga (Denmark’s top league), pending the finalization of his player registration and international transfer clearance.

Per team policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Rusin, a 6-foot-4-inch defender, spent two-plus seasons with the RailHawks. He appeared in a total of 54 matches and played 4,005 minutes and scored two goals.

“We are thrilled for Brad and appreciative of the job he has done on and off the field for the RailHawks organization,” said Carolina President Curt Johnson. “This is a fantastic opportunity for him and we wish him all the best. Developing players is an important part of our on-field success and our business model. Selling them is a difficult but necessary part of the process at times. We are more committed than ever to bringing an NASL championship to the Triangle, and I am confident our players and coaches are up for the challenge that lies ahead in the second half of the season.”

Rusin was in the midst of a tremendous season with the RailHawks in 2011. Named team captain in the offseason, he appeared in 12 matches, played 1,080 minutes and scored one goal. His presence in the middle of the backline helped the RailHawks post a league-leading 0.786 goals against average and five shutouts, and he was named the league’s Defensive Player of the Week three times.

“Over the last few seasons, Brad developed a lot as a player,” said RailHawks coach Martin Rennie. “The potential he showed when he first joined our club is about to come to fruition. He’s going to play in one of the top leagues in Europe, and we’re looking forward to watching his career progress from afar. I’m excited to see where he’ll go. We wish him all the best and expect him to do quite well.”

HB Køge pursued Rusin last summer but a deal could not be reached before the end of the international transfer window in August. HB Køge’s loss proved to be a big gain for the RailHawks. Rusin played all but two minutes of the RailHawks six-game postseason run to the championship series, and he scored the first goal of his professional career in the second leg of the semifinals against Montreal.

“Over the last two and a half years I have grown tremendously as a player and have gained valuable experience,” said Rusin, who began his professional career with the RailHawks in 2009 after a standout collegiate career at UCLA. “I would like to thank all of my teammates and coaches, past and present, for making this opportunity a reality. Without them this would not be possible.  Last but not least, I want to thank the fans for such quality support throughout my time in Carolina. You guys deserve nothing less than a championship this year and I know the guys will get it done.”

HB Køge spent the 2010-11 season in Denmark’s second tier. After a runner-up finish in the table, they were promoted to Denmark’s top flight. Rusin will be one of  six American-born players who will play in Denmark in the upcoming European season, and one of five who will play in the Superliga.

RailHawks goalkeeper Caleb Patterson is also on his way to Europe. He has will transfer to Atlético Clube de Portugal, which plays in Portugal’s second division, pending the finalization of his player registration and international transfer clearance.

Patterson did not see any time with the RailHawks in 2011. However, he enjoyed his best season as a professional with Carolina in 2009. That season, he went 7-3-5 in league play and posted a 0.53 goals against average, which still stands as a club record. He also had 10 shutouts. He spent the 2010 season with Miami FC.

“It was great to have the opportunity to return to Carolina this season, and I want to thank the team and all the fans for their exceptional support,” Patterson said. “I’m thrilled to have this opportunity in Portugal, but I will always be grateful for my time with the RailHawks.”

Patterson has spent his professional career in the United States, but he’s no stranger to Europe. In 2004, he played for the Belgian club Anderlecht’s reserve squad. And he also spent time in the youth academies at England’s Sheffield Wednesday and Liverpool.

AC Portugal pursued Patterson last summer, but like Rusin, a deal could not be reached before the end of the international transfer window.

“Caleb is an excellent young goalkeeper and his future is very bright,” Rennie said. “He was excellent to have in the squad, and he did a lot of work in the community, too. We look forward to following his success overseas in the years to come.”

With Patterson’s exit, the RailHawks have signed former Wake Forest goalkeeper Akira Fitzgerald. Fitzgerald played for the Demon Deacons from 2007-10 and was a part of their 2007 national championship team. The starter during his final three years, Fitzgerald finished his career with a record of 46-15-7, a 0.83 goals against average and 26 shutouts.

Halfway through the 2011 season, the RailHawks are 12-1-1 and lead the NASL table by 13 points. They kick off the second half of the season on Saturday in Blaine, Minn., against Minnesota at 8:30 p.m. EST. The RailHawks return to WakeMed Soccer Park on July 23, when they meet FC Edmonton at 7 p.m.

CARY, N.C. – Carolina RailHawks captain Brad Rusin will transfer to HB Køge of the Danish Superliga (Denmark’s top league), pending the finalization of his player registration and international transfer clearance.

Per team policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Rusin, a 6-foot-4-inch defender, spent two-plus seasons with the RailHawks. He appeared in a total of 54 matches and played 4,005 minutes and scored two goals.

“We are thrilled for Brad and appreciative of the job he has done on and off the field for the RailHawks organization,” said Carolina President Curt Johnson. “This is a fantastic opportunity for him and we wish him all the best. Developing players is an important part of our on-field success and our business model. Selling them is a difficult but necessary part of the process at times. We are more committed than ever to bringing an NASL championship to the Triangle, and I am confident our players and coaches are up for the challenge that lies ahead in the second half of the season.”

Rusin was in the midst of a tremendous season with the RailHawks in 2011. Named team captain in the offseason, he appeared in 12 matches, played 1,080 minutes and scored one goal. His presence in the middle of the backline helped the RailHawks post a league-leading 0.786 goals against average and five shutouts, and he was named the league’s Defensive Player of the Week three times.

“Over the last few seasons, Brad developed a lot as a player,” said RailHawks coach Martin Rennie. “The potential he showed when he first joined our club is about to come to fruition. He’s going to play in one of the top leagues in Europe, and we’re looking forward to watching his career progress from afar. I’m excited to see where he’ll go. We wish him all the best and expect him to do quite well.”

HB Køge pursued Rusin last summer but a deal could not be reached before the end of the international transfer window in August. HB Køge’s loss proved to be a big gain for the RailHawks. Rusin played all but two minutes of the RailHawks six-game postseason run to the championship series, and he scored the first goal of his professional career in the second leg of the semifinals against Montreal.

“Over the last two and a half years I have grown tremendously as a player and have gained valuable experience,” said Rusin, who began his professional career with the RailHawks in 2009 after a standout collegiate career at UCLA. “I would like to thank all of my teammates and coaches, past and present, for making this opportunity a reality. Without them this would not be possible.  Last but not least, I want to thank the fans for such quality support throughout my time in Carolina. You guys deserve nothing less than a championship this year and I know the guys will get it done.”

HB Køge spent the 2010-11 season in Denmark’s second tier. After a runner-up finish in the table, they were promoted to Denmark’s top flight. Rusin will be one of  six American-born players who will play in Denmark in the upcoming European season, and one of five who will play in the Superliga.

RailHawks goalkeeper Caleb Patterson is also on his way to Europe. He has will transfer to Atlético Clube de Portugal, which plays in Portugal’s second division, pending the finalization of his player registration and international transfer clearance.

Patterson did not see any time with the RailHawks in 2011. However, he enjoyed his best season as a professional with Carolina in 2009. That season, he went 7-3-5 in league play and posted a 0.53 goals against average, which still stands as a club record. He also had 10 shutouts. He spent the 2010 season with Miami FC.

“It was great to have the opportunity to return to Carolina this season, and I want to thank the team and all the fans for their exceptional support,” Patterson said. “I’m thrilled to have this opportunity in Portugal, but I will always be grateful for my time with the RailHawks.”

Patterson has spent his professional career in the United States, but he’s no stranger to Europe. In 2004, he played for the Belgian club Anderlecht’s reserve squad. And he also spent time in the youth academies at England’s Sheffield Wednesday and Liverpool.

AC Portugal pursued Patterson last summer, but like Rusin, a deal could not be reached before the end of the international transfer window.

“Caleb is an excellent young goalkeeper and his future is very bright,” Rennie said. “He was excellent to have in the squad, and he did a lot of work in the community, too. We look forward to following his success overseas in the years to come.”

With Patterson’s exit, the RailHawks have signed former Wake Forest goalkeeper Akira Fitzgerald. Fitzgerald played for the Demon Deacons from 2007-10 and was a part of their 2007 national championship team. The starter during his final three years, Fitzgerald finished his career with a record of 46-15-7, a 0.83 goals against average and 26 shutouts.

Halfway through the 2011 season, the RailHawks are 12-1-1 and lead the NASL table by 13 points. They kick off the second half of the season on Saturday in Blaine, Minn., against Minnesota at 8:30 p.m. EST. The RailHawks return to WakeMed Soccer Park on July 23, when they meet FC Edmonton at 7 p.m.