2016 Archive

Join North Carolina FC on our mission to bring Major League Soccer to the Triangle. 

Major League Soccer Commissioner Don Garber announced yesterday that 10 cities that are under consideration for four available MLS expansion spots, stating that teams 25 and 26 will be announced during the second or third quarter of 2017 and begin MLS play by 2020. Teams 27 and 28 will be announced at a later date. 

The 10 cities being considered for MLS expansion include: Charlotte, Cincinnati, Detroit, Nashville, Raleigh/Durham, Sacramento, St. Louis, San Antonio, San Diego and Tampa/St. Petersburg.

The following aspects are considered top priorities to MLS when reviewing candidates:

1. A committed local ownership group that has a passion for the sport, a deep belief in Major League Soccer and the resources to invest in the infrastructure to build the sport in their respective market.

2. A market that has a history of strong fan support for soccer matches and other sporting events, is located in a desirable geographic location and is attractive to corporate sponsors and television partners.

3. A comprehensive stadium plan that ensures the club will have a proper home for their fans and players while also serving as a destination for the sport in the community.

Click here for the full MLS release. 

North Carolina FC released this statement following the announcement on MLS expansion process and timeline.

"Major League Soccer announced that the Triangle is among one of the 10 communities being considered for expansion. North Carolina Football Club is excited about the next steps in this process set forth by MLS and is confident it will be able to meet the goal of bringing the highest level of men’s professional soccer to the Triangle (Raleigh, Durham and Chapel Hill)."

Now is the time for soccer enthusiasts, supporters, fans and corporations to help us achieve our goals. The best way to do so is to join The New State of Soccer by becoming season ticket members, sponsors and members of our organization.

Join North Carolina FC on our mission to bring Major League Soccer to the Triangle. 

Major League Soccer Commissioner Don Garber announced yesterday that 10 cities that are under consideration for four available MLS expansion spots, stating that teams 25 and 26 will be announced during the second or third quarter of 2017 and begin MLS play by 2020. Teams 27 and 28 will be announced at a later date. 

The 10 cities being considered for MLS expansion include: Charlotte, Cincinnati, Detroit, Nashville, Raleigh/Durham, Sacramento, St. Louis, San Antonio, San Diego and Tampa/St. Petersburg.

The following aspects are considered top priorities to MLS when reviewing candidates:

1. A committed local ownership group that has a passion for the sport, a deep belief in Major League Soccer and the resources to invest in the infrastructure to build the sport in their respective market.

2. A market that has a history of strong fan support for soccer matches and other sporting events, is located in a desirable geographic location and is attractive to corporate sponsors and television partners.

3. A comprehensive stadium plan that ensures the club will have a proper home for their fans and players while also serving as a destination for the sport in the community.

Click here for the full MLS release. 

North Carolina FC released this statement following the announcement on MLS expansion process and timeline.

“Major League Soccer announced that the Triangle is among one of the 10 communities being considered for expansion. North Carolina Football Club is excited about the next steps in this process set forth by MLS and is confident it will be able to meet the goal of bringing the highest level of men’s professional soccer to the Triangle (Raleigh, Durham and Chapel Hill).”

Now is the time for soccer enthusiasts, supporters, fans and corporations to help us achieve our goals. The best way to do so is to join The New State of Soccer by becoming season ticket members, sponsors and members of our organization.

How It All Began:

On July 19, 2006, the Carolina RailHawks were introduced as the state’s newest professional sports team at halftime of the USL First Division All-Star Game held at SAS Soccer Park in Cary, N.C. The name “RailHawks” was selected as part of a name-the-team contest, which was won by Cary resident Jarrett Campbell. A fictitious bird of prey, the RailHawk combines the speed and power of a locomotive with the aggressive and fierce nature of a hawk.

The team debuted at SAS Soccer Park, now WakeMed Soccer Park, in 2007. This soccer-specific stadium was the previous home of the Carolina Courage, a women’s professional team that was part of the WUSA until the league folded in 2003.

Born in a state deep-rooted in soccer tradition, the club has become a stronghold of the NASL while capturing national and international attention in its ten years of existence. From defeating the LA Galaxy three times in the Lamar Hunt US Open Cup, to hosting the first-ever English Premier League team to visit the Triangle in 2016, North Carolina FC has established itself as a rising star in soccer that maintains focus on youth development and fan engagement.

2007: The Inaugural Season

The Carolina RailHawks launched their inaugural season on April 21, 2007 in front of 6,327 fans at SAS Soccer Park. The team drew 1-1 with the Minnesota Thunder in their first official regular season match.  Defender Kupono Low scored the first goal in franchise history when he blasted a 24-yard left-footed shot past Thunder keeper Joe Warren.

The club earned its first win on May 8, 2007 in an exhibition match against Chivas USA, where they defeated the MLS side 2-0. Head Coach Scott Schweitzer led the team to an eighth place finish in the USL First Division that year.

Nigerian striker Connally Edozien ended the season as the team’s leading scorer with eight goals and goalkeeper Chris McClellan set a club record with 12 shutouts in a single season, a record that is still in place today.

With a league record of 8W-12L-8D, the RailHawks made history in the Lamar Hunt US Open Cup as they surged past MLS side Chicago Fire and regional rival Richmond Kickers to make it to the semi-final match. Despite falling 2-1 in added time against the New England Revolution, the RailHawks’ 2007 Open Cup run would be their most successful to date.

The RailHawks continued to broaden their schedule when they welcomed Liga MX’s Cruz Azul to Cary in an international exhibition match on July 25. Despite losing 2-0, the team played in front of a record crowd of 6,505 at SAS Soccer Park.

In their inaugural season, the RailHawks won the Southern Derby Cup- a fan-based soccer cup between USL teams based in the South-Atlantic region of the country (North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Tennessee and Alabama). Carolina went 3W-OL-1D in the Southern Derby, securing the first championship in club history.

2008: Establishing Excellence

The second regular season was similar to the first, as the team finished the USL season once again in eighth place, winning one more game than the previous year. The RailHawks started out strong with a seven game unbeaten streak before falling 1-0 to the Atlantic Silverbacks on May 10, 2008.

The highlight of the year came in July when the club hosted Liga MX side Club de Fútbol Monterrey and held the Mexican team to 0-0 at the end of 90 minutes. The RailHawks fell 1-4 in penalty kicks, but the competitive game showed the team’s ability play at a high level.

In their second season, the RailHawks proved dominance as they became back-to-back champions, winning the Southern Derby Cup yet again.

Chris McClellan remained in goal for Carolina, posting six shutouts in his second season with the club. After Connally Edozien transferred to Miami FC during the 2008 season, it was Hamed Diallo who stepped in as the club’s leading scorer. The Ivorian striker netted seven goals in 26 appearances.

2009: The Rennie Era

2009 saw a coaching staff change as Martin Rennie replaced Scott Schweitzer as head coach in the club’s third USL season. On July 17, the RailHawks signed then free agent Greg Shields to the roster, who would go on to become an assistant coach for the team.  

Several big names came to Cary in 2009, including the Panama national team and Honduran Club Deportivo Olimpia.  

Yet again, the RailHawks performed in the Southern Derby for the third year in a row, co-championing with the Charleston Battery. 

The club showed its potential for greatness, finishing the regular season in second place with a 16W-7D-7L. They scored 43 goals, while conceding only 19. Sallieu Bundu and Gregory Richardson led the team in goals, with six each.

A new face was featured in goal as Caleb Patterson-Sewell took over, earning 10 clean sheets throughout the year.

The RailHawks made it to the second round of both the US Open Cup and the USL post-season, losing a close 1-0 game on September 24 to the Vancouver Whitecaps in chase of a Championship.

In 2009, the RailHawks also announced their intent to leave the USL in favor of being a co-founder of the North American Soccer League in 2010 along with eight other teams.

2010: First Place Position

The USL was reluctant to have teams exit the league for the NASL; therefore, the US Soccer Federation ordered the two leagues to work together. The solution saw the RailHawks play in a temporary league in 2010, the USSF Division II Professional League, which combined the NASL and the USL-1.

The RailHawks finished in first place on the NASL side, earning them a spot in post-season contention with a 13W-8D-9L record with the help of a team-leading eight goals from Etienne Barbara.

Barbara played in front of Eric Reed in net, who held opponents scoreless six times throughout the season.

Midfielder Tiyi Shipalane joined the club in 2010, while a month-long loan saw Tommy Heinemann play for Carolina as well. A marquee signing from the club also came in the form of David Hayes, who began his professional career with D.C. United of MLS.

International visitors once again came to WakeMed Soccer Park, this year with appearances from Mexico’s U-21 team and Pumas Morelos, a Mexican team that played in the Segunda División.

Carolina made a great run in the league playoffs, reaching the final, where they fell to the Puerto Rico Islanders. The league’s playoffs format involved a two-game aggregate goal series.

The RailHawks lost the first game in Puerto Rico, 2-0, and tied the second game at WakeMed Soccer Park with a 1-1 draw. Heinemann provided Carolina’s goal in the 10th minute; however, it was not enough to overcome the Islander’s two-goal lead.

2011: Success Strikes Again

Only building on 2010’s success, the RailHawks won the NASL regular season in the league’s inaugural year with a 17W-3D-8L record.

Etienne Barbara again led the team in goals, scoring 20 over the course of the season. Those goals won him both the NASL Golden Ball and NASL Golden Boot, naming him the league’s MVP and top-scorer. The Malta national also added eight assists throughout the year.

Barbara wasn’t the only player with a great showing, as the RailHawks featured four players on the NASL’s Best XI, including Barbara, Matt Watson, Kupono Low and Brad Knighton.

The club scored 50 goals throughout the year, while only conceding 26.

New faces this season included Pablo Campos, from Real Salt Lake of MLS, Allan Russell, from Kilmarnock in Scotland, and Akira Fitzgerald after his graduation from Wake Forest University.

Despite the regular season’s dominancy, in which the RailHawks posted a 13 game unbeaten streak at their peak, the club fell to the NSC Minnesota Stars in the semifinals of the playoffs.

The Stars took the first game of the aggregate goal series with a 1-0 win on Oct. 8 and the RailHawks retaliated with a 4-3 win at WakeMed Soccer Park on Oct. 15. With even scoring, the game went to penalty kicks, with the Stars winning the contest.

The club announced on December 11 that Colin Clarke would be taking over at the helm in 2012 as the next Head Coach with Martin Rennie’s departure.

2012: Colin Clarke’s Creation

As the defending regular season champions, the RailHawks finished the 2012 season in fourth place with a 10W-10D-8L record under the first year of Colin Clarke’s guidance.

The club had an impressive US Open Cup run. Carolina handed PSA Elite of the USASA a brutal 6-0 loss and MLS club Los Angeles Galaxy a 2-1 loss to earn their spot in the fourth round. After an early goal from Los Angeles, Tiyi Shipalane scored a late equalizer in the 75th minute. The South African footballer picked up an assist in the 88th minute when Brian Shriver netted the ball, effectively pulling off the upset.

They advanced to the fourth round to challenge MLS side Chivas USA where they eventually fell in a close 2-1 match.

It was Shriver’s first year with the club after the University of North Carolina alum left for a brief stint with the Fort Lauderdale Strikers.

Nick Zimmerman led the team in scoring in 2012 with an impressive 15 goals, making the NASL Team of the Year, while Ray Burse found success in net with six clean sheets.

The RailHawks signed a pair of former Wake Forest Demon Deacons, Austin da Luz and Zack Schilawski. On April 4, da Luz came from the New York Red Bulls and D.C. United of MLS.

On April 27, Carolina also signed Cary, N.C. local Schilawski, who was coming from the New England Revolution of MLS. Schilawski was a RailHawks product, having also previously played with the RailHawks U23’s.

The RailHawks made it to the playoffs for the fourth year in a row where they eliminated the Fort Lauderdale Strikers on Sept. 29 in the Quarterfinals with a 3-1 win.

Carolina was then eliminated in the semifinals of the playoffs by one goal in the aggregate series, as the Tampa Bay Rowdies outscored the RailHawks, overall, with a 2-1 Rowdies win on Oct. 6 at WakeMed Soccer Park and a 3-3 draw in Florida on Oct. 13.

2013: Akira Fitzgerald Takes Hold

The RailHawks finished in second place in both the Spring and Fall Seasons with a 12W-12D-7L record, however, NASL format did not include the playoffs this year.

No stranger to a deep Open Cup run, the RailHawks made another appearance in the Quarterfinals. Carolina upset two MLS teams on the way, both LA Galaxy and Chivas USA.

In the May 29 win over Los Angeles, the RailHawks blanked the Galaxy at WakeMed Soccer Park in front of 8,121 fans, with a 2-0 win thanks to goals from Tiyi Shipalane and Austin da Luz.

The RailHawks then knocked off Chivas USA at WakeMed Soccer Park on June 12 with a 3-1 win, as Shipalane tallied another Open Cup goal, and Brian Ackley and César Elizondo added on.

Carolina’s elimination came on June 26 with an away loss to Real Salt Lake of MLS, the eventual runner-up of the competition.

Akira Fitzgerald took his position as the club’s starting goalkeeper, leading the team in shutouts.

Brian Shriver led the league with 15 goals, earning himself a spot on the 2013 NASL Team of the Year and winning the NASL Golden Boot for scoring the most goals in the league.

2014: Upset Artists

The NASL introduced The Championship playoff format this year, with the Spring Season and Fall Season winners earning a spot, as well as the following two clubs with the best combined record. With a 11W-5D-11L record, the RailHawks finished the year in 5th place in the combined standings.

Though Carolina did not participate in the playoffs, the club made it to the Quarterfinals of the Open Cup again, eliminating the Charlotte Eagles, and both the LA Galaxy and Chivas USA for a third and second time respectively.

The club also won its two exhibition matches, serving both the United States U-20 team and Mexican team Puebla F.C. 2-1 losses at WakeMed Soccer Park.

Zack Schilawski, who joined the club in 2012, led the team with 11 goals and Akira Fitzgerald remained staunch in net, leading the team in shutouts.

Midfielder Nazmi Albadawi joined the RailHawks this season after graduating from North Carolina State University. He netted his first goal in the club’s 2-0 win over the Charlotte Eagles in the second round of the Open Cup. Albadawi was named NASL Player of the Week for his goal and assist in the RailHawks’ 3-1 win over the San Antonio Scorpions.

Staunch defender Connor Tobin also joined the team this year from Minnesota United FC. The RailHawks bolstered their offesne by signing the Spanish Nacho Novo.

2015: The End of an Era

The RailHawks finished the Spring Season in 3rd place, putting themselves in good position for the Fall Season; however, a 7th place Fall Season finish landed the club a 6th place overall spot in the standings. Carolina played to a 9W-8D-13L record.

Nacho Novo led the team in offensive production with 11 goals and Akira Fitzgerald once again led the club’s goalkeeping, with four clean sheets.

WakeMed Soccer Park was visited by a new club, as Seoul E-Land FC visited from South Korea for an exhibition match. The RailHawks picked up an exciting win via a 5-4 advantage in penalties.

The RailHawks did not perform as per usual in the Open Cup, as they suffered a 1-0 loss to the Charlotte Independence in the Third Round.

The club saw a change in ownership this year as local owner Steve Malik took over the team from Traffic Sports.

2016: New Faces

Current owner Steve Malik seized the opportunity to transform the club and pursue a vision for the future of soccer in the state of North Carolina.

During a press conference on October 30, 2015, the ambitious local owner said, “Our goal is to take the RailHawks to the highest level through additional investment in marketing, players and staffing. We are excited to lead our community in working together to give the Triangle a world-class soccer team.”

Malik stuck to his word and completely revamped the RailHawks game-day experience with the addition of the Far Post Beer Garden, the Fan Bus, the Duck Donuts Family Fun Zone and Matchday Swoopstakes.

New faces in the front office were matched with the new faces on the field. The RailHawks had a big year with the addition of forwards Omar Bravo and Matt Fondy. 

Bravo, the biggest signing in club history, provided senior leadership and immense experience to the team, as he left C.D. Guadalajara as the team’s all-time leading scorer. In 14 games played with the RailHawks, he scored four goals and added one assist.

Fondy supplemented Bravo’s offensive spark with seven goals and two assists of his own, making him the leading-scorer of the season.

In addition, captain Nazmi Albadawi set a modern NASL single-season record with his 10 assists. The midfielder was nominated for the NASL Golden Ball, given to the league’s most valuable player.

Though the RailHawks missed the playoffs again, with a 7W-5D-10L record, they again made an impressive Open Cup run, reaching the fourth round where they lost a tight 1-0 game to the New England Revolution of MLS.

In the third round, the RailHawks eliminated the Charlotte Independence with a 5-0 win that saw Carolina score five extra-time goals in the thrilling match. The score set a US Open Cup record for the most goals scored by a single team in extra time.

West Ham United became the first Premier League team to visit the Triangle region of North Carolina when they came to WakeMed Soccer Park on July 12.

In the exciting 2-2 draw, the RailHawks showed their abilities to keep up with the top-team with an own-goal on West Ham’s end and a goal from Marvin Ceballos in the 67th minute, his first with the RailHawks. The match took place in front of a record 10,125 fans.

2017: A New State of Soccer 

North Carolina FC turned over a new leaf in 2017 as the first year under a new name and mission. The club reached new heights with its #919toMLS campaign and made big strides in its youth-to-pro pipeline development. The club announced a collaboration with CASL and TFCA to form NCFC Youth and create the largest youth-to-pro organization in the country. The club also unveiled new plans for a downtown MLS stadium, met with plenty of fanfare and interest from the Triangle community.

On the field, NCFC finished third in the NASL combined table and qualified for the playoffs for the first time since 2013. The club would bow out to eventual NASL Champions the San Francisco Deltas in the semifinals. Local product and team captain Nazmi Albadawi had another breakout season and was named to the NASL Best XI along with teammate Connor Tobin.

In the Open Cup, NCFC knocked out the Carolina Dynamo with a 6-1 result before taking down the Charlotte Independence for the second-straight year. In the fourth round, NCFC welcomed the MLS’ Houston Dynamo to Cary, but fell 3-2 in extra time.

Following the season, NCFC announced a move to the USL, effective immediately.

2018: New League, Same Excellence

A new-look North Carolina FC squad took the field in the USL with 16 new players joining the team for 2018. After a slow start, North Carolina rounded into form through the middle of the season. A late-season push saw the club nearly qualify for the 2018 USL Cup playoffs, but the team would miss the mark by just two points, finishing the season with a 13W-13L-8D USL record.

Despite missing postseason play, the club had successful moments to highlight, including the capturing the Southern Derby Cup for the fourth time in club history. NCFC, Charleston and Charlotte competed for the Cup, and NCFC won the competition with a record of 2W-1L-1D. Individually, Daniel Rios scored 20 goals and was named to the USL All-League First Team. On loan from Chivas Guadalajara, the striker tied the club record for most goals in a regular season. Kyle Bekker also set a club record with most regular-season assists with 13. He also added seven goals and earned USL All-League Second Team honors. 

In the Open Cup, NCFC took down Lansdowne Bhoys F.C. and the Ocean City Nor’Easters in the early rounds. NCFC went blow-for-blow with D.C. United in the fourth round, but the MLS side prevailed on penalties to advance.

Following the season, the club opted not to renew Colin Clarke’s contract.

 

How It All Began:

On July 19, 2006, the Carolina RailHawks were introduced as the state’s newest professional sports team at halftime of the USL First Division All-Star Game held at SAS Soccer Park in Cary, N.C. The name “RailHawks” was selected as part of a name-the-team contest, which was won by Cary resident Jarrett Campbell. A fictitious bird of prey, the RailHawk combines the speed and power of a locomotive with the aggressive and fierce nature of a hawk.

The team debuted at SAS Soccer Park, now WakeMed Soccer Park, in 2007. This soccer-specific stadium was the previous home of the Carolina Courage, a women’s professional team that was part of the WUSA until the league folded in 2003.

Born in a state deep-rooted in soccer tradition, the club has become a stronghold of the NASL while capturing national and international attention in its ten years of existence. From defeating the LA Galaxy three times in the Lamar Hunt US Open Cup, to hosting the first-ever English Premier League team to visit the Triangle in 2016, North Carolina FC has established itself as a rising star in soccer that maintains focus on youth development and fan engagement.

2007: The Inaugural Season

The Carolina RailHawks launched their inaugural season on April 21, 2007 in front of 6,327 fans at SAS Soccer Park. The team drew 1-1 with the Minnesota Thunder in their first official regular season match.  Defender Kupono Low scored the first goal in franchise history when he blasted a 24-yard left-footed shot past Thunder keeper Joe Warren.

The club earned its first win on May 8, 2007 in an exhibition match against Chivas USA, where they defeated the MLS side 2-0. Head Coach Scott Schweitzer led the team to an eighth place finish in the USL First Division that year.

Nigerian striker Connally Edozien ended the season as the team’s leading scorer with eight goals and goalkeeper Chris McClellan set a club record with 12 shutouts in a single season, a record that is still in place today.

With a league record of 8W-12L-8D, the RailHawks made history in the Lamar Hunt US Open Cup as they surged past MLS side Chicago Fire and regional rival Richmond Kickers to make it to the semi-final match. Despite falling 2-1 in added time against the New England Revolution, the RailHawks’ 2007 Open Cup run would be their most successful to date.

The RailHawks continued to broaden their schedule when they welcomed Liga MX’s Cruz Azul to Cary in an international exhibition match on July 25. Despite losing 2-0, the team played in front of a record crowd of 6,505 at SAS Soccer Park.

In their inaugural season, the RailHawks won the Southern Derby Cup- a fan-based soccer cup between USL teams based in the South-Atlantic region of the country (North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Tennessee and Alabama). Carolina went 3W-OL-1D in the Southern Derby, securing the first championship in club history.

2008: Establishing Excellence

The second regular season was similar to the first, as the team finished the USL season once again in eighth place, winning one more game than the previous year. The RailHawks started out strong with a seven game unbeaten streak before falling 1-0 to the Atlantic Silverbacks on May 10, 2008.

The highlight of the year came in July when the club hosted Liga MX side Club de Fútbol Monterrey and held the Mexican team to 0-0 at the end of 90 minutes. The RailHawks fell 1-4 in penalty kicks, but the competitive game showed the team’s ability play at a high level.

In their second season, the RailHawks proved dominance as they became back-to-back champions, winning the Southern Derby Cup yet again.

Chris McClellan remained in goal for Carolina, posting six shutouts in his second season with the club. After Connally Edozien transferred to Miami FC during the 2008 season, it was Hamed Diallo who stepped in as the club’s leading scorer. The Ivorian striker netted seven goals in 26 appearances.

2009: The Rennie Era

2009 saw a coaching staff change as Martin Rennie replaced Scott Schweitzer as head coach in the club’s third USL season. On July 17, the RailHawks signed then free agent Greg Shields to the roster, who would go on to become an assistant coach for the team.  

Several big names came to Cary in 2009, including the Panama national team and Honduran Club Deportivo Olimpia.  

Yet again, the RailHawks performed in the Southern Derby for the third year in a row, co-championing with the Charleston Battery. 

The club showed its potential for greatness, finishing the regular season in second place with a 16W-7D-7L. They scored 43 goals, while conceding only 19. Sallieu Bundu and Gregory Richardson led the team in goals, with six each.

A new face was featured in goal as Caleb Patterson-Sewell took over, earning 10 clean sheets throughout the year.

The RailHawks made it to the second round of both the US Open Cup and the USL post-season, losing a close 1-0 game on September 24 to the Vancouver Whitecaps in chase of a Championship.

In 2009, the RailHawks also announced their intent to leave the USL in favor of being a co-founder of the North American Soccer League in 2010 along with eight other teams.

2010: First Place Position

The USL was reluctant to have teams exit the league for the NASL; therefore, the US Soccer Federation ordered the two leagues to work together. The solution saw the RailHawks play in a temporary league in 2010, the USSF Division II Professional League, which combined the NASL and the USL-1.

The RailHawks finished in first place on the NASL side, earning them a spot in post-season contention with a 13W-8D-9L record with the help of a team-leading eight goals from Etienne Barbara.

Barbara played in front of Eric Reed in net, who held opponents scoreless six times throughout the season.

Midfielder Tiyi Shipalane joined the club in 2010, while a month-long loan saw Tommy Heinemann play for Carolina as well. A marquee signing from the club also came in the form of David Hayes, who began his professional career with D.C. United of MLS.

International visitors once again came to WakeMed Soccer Park, this year with appearances from Mexico’s U-21 team and Pumas Morelos, a Mexican team that played in the Segunda División.

Carolina made a great run in the league playoffs, reaching the final, where they fell to the Puerto Rico Islanders. The league’s playoffs format involved a two-game aggregate goal series.

The RailHawks lost the first game in Puerto Rico, 2-0, and tied the second game at WakeMed Soccer Park with a 1-1 draw. Heinemann provided Carolina’s goal in the 10th minute; however, it was not enough to overcome the Islander’s two-goal lead.

2011: Success Strikes Again

Only building on 2010’s success, the RailHawks won the NASL regular season in the league’s inaugural year with a 17W-3D-8L record.

Etienne Barbara again led the team in goals, scoring 20 over the course of the season. Those goals won him both the NASL Golden Ball and NASL Golden Boot, naming him the league’s MVP and top-scorer. The Malta national also added eight assists throughout the year.

Barbara wasn’t the only player with a great showing, as the RailHawks featured four players on the NASL’s Best XI, including Barbara, Matt Watson, Kupono Low and Brad Knighton.

The club scored 50 goals throughout the year, while only conceding 26.

New faces this season included Pablo Campos, from Real Salt Lake of MLS, Allan Russell, from Kilmarnock in Scotland, and Akira Fitzgerald after his graduation from Wake Forest University.

Despite the regular season’s dominancy, in which the RailHawks posted a 13 game unbeaten streak at their peak, the club fell to the NSC Minnesota Stars in the semifinals of the playoffs.

The Stars took the first game of the aggregate goal series with a 1-0 win on Oct. 8 and the RailHawks retaliated with a 4-3 win at WakeMed Soccer Park on Oct. 15. With even scoring, the game went to penalty kicks, with the Stars winning the contest.

The club announced on December 11 that Colin Clarke would be taking over at the helm in 2012 as the next Head Coach with Martin Rennie’s departure.

2012: Colin Clarke’s Creation

As the defending regular season champions, the RailHawks finished the 2012 season in fourth place with a 10W-10D-8L record under the first year of Colin Clarke’s guidance.

The club had an impressive US Open Cup run. Carolina handed PSA Elite of the USASA a brutal 6-0 loss and MLS club Los Angeles Galaxy a 2-1 loss to earn their spot in the fourth round. After an early goal from Los Angeles, Tiyi Shipalane scored a late equalizer in the 75th minute. The South African footballer picked up an assist in the 88th minute when Brian Shriver netted the ball, effectively pulling off the upset.

They advanced to the fourth round to challenge MLS side Chivas USA where they eventually fell in a close 2-1 match.

It was Shriver’s first year with the club after the University of North Carolina alum left for a brief stint with the Fort Lauderdale Strikers.

Nick Zimmerman led the team in scoring in 2012 with an impressive 15 goals, making the NASL Team of the Year, while Ray Burse found success in net with six clean sheets.

The RailHawks signed a pair of former Wake Forest Demon Deacons, Austin da Luz and Zack Schilawski. On April 4, da Luz came from the New York Red Bulls and D.C. United of MLS.

On April 27, Carolina also signed Cary, N.C. local Schilawski, who was coming from the New England Revolution of MLS. Schilawski was a RailHawks product, having also previously played with the RailHawks U23’s.

The RailHawks made it to the playoffs for the fourth year in a row where they eliminated the Fort Lauderdale Strikers on Sept. 29 in the Quarterfinals with a 3-1 win.

Carolina was then eliminated in the semifinals of the playoffs by one goal in the aggregate series, as the Tampa Bay Rowdies outscored the RailHawks, overall, with a 2-1 Rowdies win on Oct. 6 at WakeMed Soccer Park and a 3-3 draw in Florida on Oct. 13.

2013: Akira Fitzgerald Takes Hold

The RailHawks finished in second place in both the Spring and Fall Seasons with a 12W-12D-7L record, however, NASL format did not include the playoffs this year.

No stranger to a deep Open Cup run, the RailHawks made another appearance in the Quarterfinals. Carolina upset two MLS teams on the way, both LA Galaxy and Chivas USA.

In the May 29 win over Los Angeles, the RailHawks blanked the Galaxy at WakeMed Soccer Park in front of 8,121 fans, with a 2-0 win thanks to goals from Tiyi Shipalane and Austin da Luz.

The RailHawks then knocked off Chivas USA at WakeMed Soccer Park on June 12 with a 3-1 win, as Shipalane tallied another Open Cup goal, and Brian Ackley and César Elizondo added on.

Carolina’s elimination came on June 26 with an away loss to Real Salt Lake of MLS, the eventual runner-up of the competition.

Akira Fitzgerald took his position as the club’s starting goalkeeper, leading the team in shutouts.

Brian Shriver led the league with 15 goals, earning himself a spot on the 2013 NASL Team of the Year and winning the NASL Golden Boot for scoring the most goals in the league.

2014: Upset Artists

The NASL introduced The Championship playoff format this year, with the Spring Season and Fall Season winners earning a spot, as well as the following two clubs with the best combined record. With a 11W-5D-11L record, the RailHawks finished the year in 5th place in the combined standings.

Though Carolina did not participate in the playoffs, the club made it to the Quarterfinals of the Open Cup again, eliminating the Charlotte Eagles, and both the LA Galaxy and Chivas USA for a third and second time respectively.

The club also won its two exhibition matches, serving both the United States U-20 team and Mexican team Puebla F.C. 2-1 losses at WakeMed Soccer Park.

Zack Schilawski, who joined the club in 2012, led the team with 11 goals and Akira Fitzgerald remained staunch in net, leading the team in shutouts.

Midfielder Nazmi Albadawi joined the RailHawks this season after graduating from North Carolina State University. He netted his first goal in the club’s 2-0 win over the Charlotte Eagles in the second round of the Open Cup. Albadawi was named NASL Player of the Week for his goal and assist in the RailHawks’ 3-1 win over the San Antonio Scorpions.

Staunch defender Connor Tobin also joined the team this year from Minnesota United FC. The RailHawks bolstered their offesne by signing the Spanish Nacho Novo.

2015: The End of an Era

The RailHawks finished the Spring Season in 3rd place, putting themselves in good position for the Fall Season; however, a 7th place Fall Season finish landed the club a 6th place overall spot in the standings. Carolina played to a 9W-8D-13L record.

Nacho Novo led the team in offensive production with 11 goals and Akira Fitzgerald once again led the club’s goalkeeping, with four clean sheets.

WakeMed Soccer Park was visited by a new club, as Seoul E-Land FC visited from South Korea for an exhibition match. The RailHawks picked up an exciting win via a 5-4 advantage in penalties.

The RailHawks did not perform as per usual in the Open Cup, as they suffered a 1-0 loss to the Charlotte Independence in the Third Round.

The club saw a change in ownership this year as local owner Steve Malik took over the team from Traffic Sports.

2016: New Faces

Current owner Steve Malik seized the opportunity to transform the club and pursue a vision for the future of soccer in the state of North Carolina.

During a press conference on October 30, 2015, the ambitious local owner said, “Our goal is to take the RailHawks to the highest level through additional investment in marketing, players and staffing. We are excited to lead our community in working together to give the Triangle a world-class soccer team.”

Malik stuck to his word and completely revamped the RailHawks game-day experience with the addition of the Far Post Beer Garden, the Fan Bus, the Duck Donuts Family Fun Zone and Matchday Swoopstakes.

New faces in the front office were matched with the new faces on the field. The RailHawks had a big year with the addition of forwards Omar Bravo and Matt Fondy. 

Bravo, the biggest signing in club history, provided senior leadership and immense experience to the team, as he left C.D. Guadalajara as the team’s all-time leading scorer. In 14 games played with the RailHawks, he scored four goals and added one assist.

Fondy supplemented Bravo’s offensive spark with seven goals and two assists of his own, making him the leading-scorer of the season.

In addition, captain Nazmi Albadawi set a modern NASL single-season record with his 10 assists. The midfielder was nominated for the NASL Golden Ball, given to the league’s most valuable player.

Though the RailHawks missed the playoffs again, with a 7W-5D-10L record, they again made an impressive Open Cup run, reaching the fourth round where they lost a tight 1-0 game to the New England Revolution of MLS.

In the third round, the RailHawks eliminated the Charlotte Independence with a 5-0 win that saw Carolina score five extra-time goals in the thrilling match. The score set a US Open Cup record for the most goals scored by a single team in extra time.

West Ham United became the first Premier League team to visit the Triangle region of North Carolina when they came to WakeMed Soccer Park on July 12.

In the exciting 2-2 draw, the RailHawks showed their abilities to keep up with the top-team with an own-goal on West Ham’s end and a goal from Marvin Ceballos in the 67th minute, his first with the RailHawks. The match took place in front of a record 10,125 fans.

2017: A New State of Soccer 

North Carolina FC turned over a new leaf in 2017 as the first year under a new name and mission. The club reached new heights with its #919toMLS campaign and made big strides in its youth-to-pro pipeline development. The club announced a collaboration with CASL and TFCA to form NCFC Youth and create the largest youth-to-pro organization in the country. The club also unveiled new plans for a downtown MLS stadium, met with plenty of fanfare and interest from the Triangle community.

On the field, NCFC finished third in the NASL combined table and qualified for the playoffs for the first time since 2013. The club would bow out to eventual NASL Champions the San Francisco Deltas in the semifinals. Local product and team captain Nazmi Albadawi had another breakout season and was named to the NASL Best XI along with teammate Connor Tobin.

In the Open Cup, NCFC knocked out the Carolina Dynamo with a 6-1 result before taking down the Charlotte Independence for the second-straight year. In the fourth round, NCFC welcomed the MLS’ Houston Dynamo to Cary, but fell 3-2 in extra time.

Following the season, NCFC announced a move to the USL, effective immediately.

2018: New League, Same Excellence

A new-look North Carolina FC squad took the field in the USL with 16 new players joining the team for 2018. After a slow start, North Carolina rounded into form through the middle of the season. A late-season push saw the club nearly qualify for the 2018 USL Cup playoffs, but the team would miss the mark by just two points, finishing the season with a 13W-13L-8D USL record.

Despite missing postseason play, the club had successful moments to highlight, including the capturing the Southern Derby Cup for the fourth time in club history. NCFC, Charleston and Charlotte competed for the Cup, and NCFC won the competition with a record of 2W-1L-1D. Individually, Daniel Rios scored 20 goals and was named to the USL All-League First Team. On loan from Chivas Guadalajara, the striker tied the club record for most goals in a regular season. Kyle Bekker also set a club record with most regular-season assists with 13. He also added seven goals and earned USL All-League Second Team honors. 

In the Open Cup, NCFC took down Lansdowne Bhoys F.C. and the Ocean City Nor’Easters in the early rounds. NCFC went blow-for-blow with D.C. United in the fourth round, but the MLS side prevailed on penalties to advance.

Following the season, the club opted not to renew Colin Clarke’s contract.

 

Raleigh, NC (December 6, 2016)- North Carolina FC owner Steve Malik stated he will accelerate efforts to finalize a location and begin construction on a new 20,000+ seat stadium within the next year.

Malik also announced an aggressive public campaign to be awarded an MLS franchise within the next 12-18 months as part of the newly named North Carolina FC’s vision of bringing the highest level of soccer to the state.

"MLS requires a minimum of 20,000 seats with amenities in order to maximize revenue, and a new stadium is vital to our plans as it would increase the economic impact in the area and allow us to better showcase the sport," said Malik.

The location and renderings will be unveiled in 2017. 

North Carolina FC will play at the world-class WakeMed Soccer Park located in Cary, NC for the 2017 season. The 10,000 seat stadium has been the club’s home since 2007.

Raleigh, NC (December 6, 2016)- North Carolina FC owner Steve Malik stated he will accelerate efforts to finalize a location and begin construction on a new 20,000+ seat stadium within the next year.

Malik also announced an aggressive public campaign to be awarded an MLS franchise within the next 12-18 months as part of the newly named North Carolina FC’s vision of bringing the highest level of soccer to the state.

“MLS requires a minimum of 20,000 seats with amenities in order to maximize revenue, and a new stadium is vital to our plans as it would increase the economic impact in the area and allow us to better showcase the sport,” said Malik.

The location and renderings will be unveiled in 2017. 

North Carolina FC will play at the world-class WakeMed Soccer Park located in Cary, NC for the 2017 season. The 10,000 seat stadium has been the club’s home since 2007.

Raleigh, NC (December 6, 2016)- Since taking ownership of the club in late 2015, Steve Malik has been vocal about his ambitions for the club, and he announced on Tuesday that he will be taking the necessary steps to make those visions a reality.

Malik also announced an aggressive public campaign to be awarded an MLS franchise within the next 12-18 months. This desire comes after discussions with MLS executives over the last 12 months, as well as a market study which reinforced that the Triangle would be a successful MLS Market.  

“We feel we are well positioned for this,” Malik said. “The market is ready for an MLS team based on our geographical location, population growth, dynamic economic environment and significant soccer participation."

Further details surrounding plans for MLS in the Triangle will be announced in 2017.

Raleigh, NC (December 6, 2016)- Since taking ownership of the club in late 2015, Steve Malik has been vocal about his ambitions for the club, and he announced on Tuesday that he will be taking the necessary steps to make those visions a reality.

Malik also announced an aggressive public campaign to be awarded an MLS franchise within the next 12-18 months. This desire comes after discussions with MLS executives over the last 12 months, as well as a market study which reinforced that the Triangle would be a successful MLS Market.  

“We feel we are well positioned for this,” Malik said. “The market is ready for an MLS team based on our geographical location, population growth, dynamic economic environment and significant soccer participation.”

Further details surrounding plans for MLS in the Triangle will be announced in 2017.

Raleigh, NC (December 6, 2016)- North Carolina FC owner Steve Malik has advocated for a multi-team organization since he took over the team in 2015. Thus, he announced his desire to be awarded a first-division National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) team to the Triangle in the next six months.

“We have seen tremendous success in North Carolina with women’s soccer,” Malik said. “The numerous accomplishments of local college programs, paired with the continued success of the USWNT, have driven interest in women’s youth programs. We feel the time is right to bring the highest level of women’s professional soccer to the Triangle.”

The State of North Carolina has always been a leader in women’s soccer. It has produced several legends including Mia Hamm, Christine Lilly, Anson Dorrance and Carla Overbeck. Cary, NC was the home of WUSA’s Carolina Courage for three seasons before the league folded in 2003. 

Raleigh, NC (December 6, 2016)- North Carolina FC owner Steve Malik has advocated for a multi-team organization since he took over the team in 2015. Thus, he announced his desire to be awarded a first-division National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) team to the Triangle in the next six months.

“We have seen tremendous success in North Carolina with women’s soccer,” Malik said. “The numerous accomplishments of local college programs, paired with the continued success of the USWNT, have driven interest in women’s youth programs. We feel the time is right to bring the highest level of women’s professional soccer to the Triangle.”

The State of North Carolina has always been a leader in women’s soccer. It has produced several legends including Mia Hamm, Christine Lilly, Anson Dorrance and Carla Overbeck. Cary, NC was the home of WUSA’s Carolina Courage for three seasons before the league folded in 2003. 

North Carolina FC has called Cary, NC home for over a decade. Cary is a town located in the heart of the Triangle region in central North Carolina.

The lower right point of the NCFC star, in the shape of the geographical Triangle area, stands alone to place emphasis on the club’s location. 

The Triangle is the well-known region anchored by the state’s three core universities– North Carolina State University in Raleigh, Duke University in Durham and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

With a population of 2,726,000, the Triangle is the second largest metropolitan area in North Carolina behind Charlotte, and the Raleigh-Durham television market is the 25th largest in the country as of 2015-2016.

North Carolina FC is joined by the Carolina Hurricanes of the National Hockey League and the Durham Bulls, a Tampa Bay Rays affiliate of Minor League Baseball, as the three professional sports teams in the Triangle.

WakeMed Soccer Park sits a mile off of Interstate 40, the nation’s third largest interstate that connects Wilmington, NC to Barstow, CA. The stadium is centrally located just two hours from the NC coast and three hours from the NC mountains.

The downtown areas of Raleigh, Durham and Chapel Hill are continuously developing to keep up with the Triangle’s booming population. Downtown Raleigh visitors can enjoy over 50 bars and pubs, while Red Hat Amphitheatre draws in thousands of music fans to concerts each year. North Carolina State University in Raleigh is the state’s largest university with over 34,000 enrolled undergraduates.

Downtown Durham paves Tobacco Road with it’s glimmering renovations and amazing restaurants. The Durham Bulls’ stadium sits in the heart of its city’s downtown area and the Durham Performing Arts Center brings big-name broadways to town monthly.

The Triangle is also home to the nation’s oldest public university, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. UNC-Chapel Hill has the most NCAA national championships in the state with 42 as of 2016.

The Research Triangle Park is the largest research park in the country. Surrounded by elite universities, RTP is filled with brilliant minds coming together to prompt innovation and discovery. There are over 200 companies at RTP with over 50,000 people of expertise, making the Triangle one of the most educated regions in America.

Major employers in the Triangle area include American Airlines, Bayer, Cisco Systems, IBM, SAS Institute, Lenovo, LabCorp, PNC and Progress Energy. RDU International Airport offers service to 41 destinations and is a focus city for Delta Airlines.

The stadium is surrounded by these larger cities that make up the Triangle, but Cary has accolades of its own as well. Cary offers a small-town feel while sitting just miles from the state’s capital.

Cary has been dubbed “Championship City” as the town has hosted dozens of national and international sports competitions. State-of-the-art facilities in Cary include WakeMed Soccer Park and cross country course, Cary Tennis Park and USA Baseball National Training Complex. Prestonwood Country Club golf course is also home to the SAS Championship, a stop on the PGA Champions Tour.

Cary is home to over 150,000 North Carolinians and steadily grows each year. As Cary is unique on it’s own, it is seamlessly integrated into the larger Triangle region. North Carolina FC is proud to call the Triangle home.

North Carolina FC has called Cary, NC home for over a decade. Cary is a town located in the heart of the Triangle region in central North Carolina.

The lower right point of the NCFC star, in the shape of the geographical Triangle area, stands alone to place emphasis on the club’s location. 

The Triangle is the well-known region anchored by the state’s three core universities– North Carolina State University in Raleigh, Duke University in Durham and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

With a population of 2,726,000, the Triangle is the second largest metropolitan area in North Carolina behind Charlotte, and the Raleigh-Durham television market is the 25th largest in the country as of 2015-2016.

North Carolina FC is joined by the Carolina Hurricanes of the National Hockey League and the Durham Bulls, a Tampa Bay Rays affiliate of Minor League Baseball, as the three professional sports teams in the Triangle.

WakeMed Soccer Park sits a mile off of Interstate 40, the nation’s third largest interstate that connects Wilmington, NC to Barstow, CA. The stadium is centrally located just two hours from the NC coast and three hours from the NC mountains.

The downtown areas of Raleigh, Durham and Chapel Hill are continuously developing to keep up with the Triangle’s booming population. Downtown Raleigh visitors can enjoy over 50 bars and pubs, while Red Hat Amphitheatre draws in thousands of music fans to concerts each year. North Carolina State University in Raleigh is the state’s largest university with over 34,000 enrolled undergraduates.

Downtown Durham paves Tobacco Road with it’s glimmering renovations and amazing restaurants. The Durham Bulls’ stadium sits in the heart of its city’s downtown area and the Durham Performing Arts Center brings big-name broadways to town monthly.

The Triangle is also home to the nation’s oldest public university, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. UNC-Chapel Hill has the most NCAA national championships in the state with 42 as of 2016.

The Research Triangle Park is the largest research park in the country. Surrounded by elite universities, RTP is filled with brilliant minds coming together to prompt innovation and discovery. There are over 200 companies at RTP with over 50,000 people of expertise, making the Triangle one of the most educated regions in America.

Major employers in the Triangle area include American Airlines, Bayer, Cisco Systems, IBM, SAS Institute, Lenovo, LabCorp, PNC and Progress Energy. RDU International Airport offers service to 41 destinations and is a focus city for Delta Airlines.

The stadium is surrounded by these larger cities that make up the Triangle, but Cary has accolades of its own as well. Cary offers a small-town feel while sitting just miles from the state’s capital.

Cary has been dubbed “Championship City” as the town has hosted dozens of national and international sports competitions. State-of-the-art facilities in Cary include WakeMed Soccer Park and cross country course, Cary Tennis Park and USA Baseball National Training Complex. Prestonwood Country Club golf course is also home to the SAS Championship, a stop on the PGA Champions Tour.

Cary is home to over 150,000 North Carolinians and steadily grows each year. As Cary is unique on it’s own, it is seamlessly integrated into the larger Triangle region. North Carolina FC is proud to call the Triangle home.

The North Carolina FC logo draws inspiration from the state’s impressive history that has made a lasting impact on the nation and world. With colors that align with those of our state and our country, NCFC is proud to wear the crest and solidify its identity as the club of North Carolina.

NC Star:

The white five-point star sits at the peak of NCFC’s crest and is a stark symbol of the star on the North Carolina state flag. The star embodies North Carolina as a whole and represents the state’s admission as the 12th US state. Each point comes together to form a united team and club.

The Triangle Area:

The lower right point of the NCFC star, in the shape of the geographical Triangle area, stands alone to place emphasis on the club’s location. The Triangle is the well-known central region of North Carolina anchored by the cities of Raleigh, Durham and Chapel Hill which are home to North Carolina State University, Duke University and the University of North Carolina respectively. The club’s world-class training facility and stadium are at the pristine WakeMed Soccer Park, located in the heart of the Triangle in Cary, NC. The Research Triangle Park is embedded in a thriving community of ideas, innovation, and growth. NCFC is proud to call the Triangle home.

Wordmark:

“North Carolina” sits in the center of the badge in white letters. The proprietary font titled Sir Walter honors the state capital’s namesake, Sir Walter Raleigh.

Football Club Wings:

The “FC” acronym lies between two airplane wings as an ode to North Carolina’s motto: “First in Flight.” Brothers Wilbur and Orville Wright invented and flew the first successful airplane, the Flyer, from atop of Kill Devil Hill in Kitty Hawk, NC in 1903. Their revolutionary innovation is a staple in the state’s rich history as the event is commemorated on the North Carolina license plate. The Wright Brother’s fortitude, determination and triumph are qualities that are instilled in NCFC’s philosophy and vision.

Atlantic Blue:

Representing loyalty and stability, the crest’s predominant color, Atlantic Blue, lays the framework of the NCFC logo. Known for its iconic lighthouses, the North Carolina coast meets with the Atlantic Ocean for over 300 miles. Blue is one of the two official state colors and is the vertical field on the left of the state flag.

Cardinal Red:

Named for the North Carolina state bird, Cardinal Red incorporates the energy and passion of the club’s identity and fan base into the NCFC crest. Red is the second official state color and is found in the horizontal bar of the North Carolina state flag.

Southern Gold:

Southern Gold encircles the NCFC crest and is concentrated within the lower right point of the star and airplane wings. The color honors the state’s history of abundant gold resources and athletic excellence. The discovery of a 17-pound gold nugget in Cabarrus County, NC sparked the North Carolina gold rush in 1799, boosting the state’s enterprise into the 19th century.

Gold is also a nod to the state’s legacy of superiority in soccer and other sports alike. From Michael Jordan to Mia Hamm, North Carolina is home to some of the world’s greatest athletes of all time, making the Old North State a true southern treasure.

Oak City Acorn:

The crest’s shield resembles the shape of an acorn, representing the club’s allegiance to the state’s capital affectionately known as the City of Oaks because of the oak-lined streets in the heart of Raleigh. As the seed of the deep-rooted oak tree, the acorn symbolizes the growth and ambition that NCFC possesses.

From Peak to Point:

The top point of the five-point star creates a peak that epitomizes the state’s vast mountainous region. With the highest mountain peaks east of the Rockies in the Appalachian Mountains, to the state’s seven world-renowned coastal lighthouses, North Carolina is a state that is diverse, unique and unparalleled.

The North Carolina FC logo draws inspiration from the state’s impressive history that has made a lasting impact on the nation and world. With colors that align with those of our state and our country, NCFC is proud to wear the crest and solidify its identity as the club of North Carolina.

NC Star:

The white five-point star sits at the peak of NCFC’s crest and is a stark symbol of the star on the North Carolina state flag. The star embodies North Carolina as a whole and represents the state’s admission as the 12th US state. Each point comes together to form a united team and club.

The Triangle Area:

The lower right point of the NCFC star, in the shape of the geographical Triangle area, stands alone to place emphasis on the club’s location. The Triangle is the well-known central region of North Carolina anchored by the cities of Raleigh, Durham and Chapel Hill which are home to North Carolina State University, Duke University and the University of North Carolina respectively. The club’s world-class training facility and stadium are at the pristine WakeMed Soccer Park, located in the heart of the Triangle in Cary, NC. The Research Triangle Park is embedded in a thriving community of ideas, innovation, and growth. NCFC is proud to call the Triangle home.

Wordmark:

“North Carolina” sits in the center of the badge in white letters. The proprietary font titled Sir Walter honors the state capital’s namesake, Sir Walter Raleigh.

Football Club Wings:

The “FC” acronym lies between two airplane wings as an ode to North Carolina’s motto: “First in Flight.” Brothers Wilbur and Orville Wright invented and flew the first successful airplane, the Flyer, from atop of Kill Devil Hill in Kitty Hawk, NC in 1903. Their revolutionary innovation is a staple in the state’s rich history as the event is commemorated on the North Carolina license plate. The Wright Brother’s fortitude, determination and triumph are qualities that are instilled in NCFC’s philosophy and vision.

Atlantic Blue:

Representing loyalty and stability, the crest’s predominant color, Atlantic Blue, lays the framework of the NCFC logo. Known for its iconic lighthouses, the North Carolina coast meets with the Atlantic Ocean for over 300 miles. Blue is one of the two official state colors and is the vertical field on the left of the state flag.

Cardinal Red:

Named for the North Carolina state bird, Cardinal Red incorporates the energy and passion of the club’s identity and fan base into the NCFC crest. Red is the second official state color and is found in the horizontal bar of the North Carolina state flag.

Southern Gold:

Southern Gold encircles the NCFC crest and is concentrated within the lower right point of the star and airplane wings. The color honors the state’s history of abundant gold resources and athletic excellence. The discovery of a 17-pound gold nugget in Cabarrus County, NC sparked the North Carolina gold rush in 1799, boosting the state’s enterprise into the 19th century.

Gold is also a nod to the state’s legacy of superiority in soccer and other sports alike. From Michael Jordan to Mia Hamm, North Carolina is home to some of the world’s greatest athletes of all time, making the Old North State a true southern treasure.

Oak City Acorn:

The crest’s shield resembles the shape of an acorn, representing the club’s allegiance to the state’s capital affectionately known as the City of Oaks because of the oak-lined streets in the heart of Raleigh. As the seed of the deep-rooted oak tree, the acorn symbolizes the growth and ambition that NCFC possesses.

From Peak to Point:

The top point of the five-point star creates a peak that epitomizes the state’s vast mountainous region. With the highest mountain peaks east of the Rockies in the Appalachian Mountains, to the state’s seven world-renowned coastal lighthouses, North Carolina is a state that is diverse, unique and unparalleled.

Raleigh, NC (December 6, 2016) –  Today at an event in downtown Raleigh, Owner Steve Malik and President and General Manager Curt Johnson ushered in a New State of Soccer by announcing several initiatives bolstered by a bold new brand with a modern vision for soccer in the Triangle and North Carolina. The initiatives center around bringing the highest level of men’s and women’s professional soccer in North America to the Triangle.
 
“This is a brand restatement,” said North Carolina Football Club Owner Steve Malik. “We aspire to be at the top level of both men’s and women’s professional soccer, so we are pursuing MLS and NWSL bids as well as a new stadium. We made a conscious decision to brand ourselves as North Carolina’s professional club. A united soccer community will be one of the keys to reaching these goals.”
 
In conjunction with this brand repositioning, the Carolina RailHawks will be renamed North Carolina FC (referred to as NCFC), and will have a new crest and colors, which were revealed at today’s event.
 
The new crest features several elements that tie North Carolina’s rich culture and history together. The white five-point star sits at the peak of NCFC’s crest and is a symbol of the star on the North Carolina state flag. The star embodies North Carolina as a whole, and represents the state’s admission as the 12thUS state. The lower right point of the NCFC star representing the Triangle area geographical shape stands alone to place emphasis on the club’s location. “FC,” the acronym for football club, lies between two airplane wings as an ode to North Carolina’s slogan: “First in Flight.” Additionally, the primary crest colors “Atlantic Blue” and “Cardinal Red” are inspired by the state flag and complemented by “Southern Gold,” a nod to the legendary accomplishments of North Carolina’s athletes throughout the years.
 
“We wanted a crest that embodied the symbols that are synonymous with the state of North Carolina,” said North Carolina Football Club President and General Manager Curt Johnson. “The star, the triangle, the wings and the colors are all nods to the state’s rich culture and tradition.”
 
Malik also announced an aggressive public campaign to be awarded an MLS franchise within the next 12-18 months. This desire comes after discussions with MLS executives over the last 12 months, as well as a market study which reinforced that the Triangle would be a successful MLS Market.  
 
In addition, Malik stated he is planning to accelerate efforts to finalize a location and begin construction on a new 20,000+ seat stadium within the next year. The location and renderings will be unveiled in 2017.
 
“We feel we are well positioned for this,” Malik continued. “The market is ready for an MLS team based on our geographical location, population growth, dynamic economic environment and significant soccer participation. MLS requires a minimum of 20,000 seats with amenities in order to maximize revenue, and a new stadium is vital to our plans as it would increase the economic impact in the area and allow us to better showcase the sport.”
 
Since taking over the team, Malik has advocated for a multi-team organization. To that effect, he also announced his desire to be awarded a first-division National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) team to the Triangle in the next three to six months.
 
“We have seen tremendous success in North Carolina with women’s soccer,” Malik said. “The numerous accomplishments of local college programs, paired with the continued success of the USWNT, have driven interest in women’s youth programs. We feel the time is right to bring the highest level of women’s professional soccer to the Triangle.”
 
Lastly, North Carolina Football Club will be launching an exciting membership program to enlist widespread support from all segments of the community – individual, corporate, and governmental – to help aggressively drive the successful execution of the above initiatives.
 
“There is tremendous value to the membership program,” Johnson concluded. “Aside from allowing members to secure their priority spot for MLS and NWSL seats at a new stadium, it gives supporters the opportunity to impact the process. The best way soccer enthusiasts, supporters, fans and corporations can help us achieve our goals and be a part of this movement is by becoming season ticket members, sponsors and members of our organization. They would be putting their name and money behind growing the fan base, as well as being a part of the growth of the sport and these historic initiatives.”
 
North Carolina Football Club’s membership program is available to all fans of the club.  Memberships are included with all season ticket plans or can be purchased separately by individuals for $49. Some of the membership benefits include priority preference on seat selection for a new MLS stadium and NWSL franchise, the ability to provide input and vote on items that directly impact the fan experience on game day, and the opportunity for each season ticket member to select three special game day experiences throughout the season.
 
North Carolina FC season tickets are now on sale. Fans interested in more information about membership should visit www.www.northcarolinafc.com or call the NCFC Box Office at 919-459-8144.
 
About North Carolina FC
North Carolina FC (NCFC, formerly the Carolina RailHawks) are an American professional soccer team based in Cary, North Carolina. Founded in 2006, the team plays in the North American Soccer League (NASL). NCFC plays their home games at WakeMed Soccer Park, where they have played since 2007. For more information, please visit www.www.northcarolinafc.com or follow them on Twitter and Facebook.

About North Carolina Football Club
North Carolina Football Club is the state’s largest professional soccer organization and is the parent organization of North Carolina FC (former Carolina RailHawks NASL) and North Carolina FC Youth Programs. The organization is owned by local entrepreneur Steve Malik and managed by North Carolina native and longtime soccer executive Curt Johnson. North Carolina Football Club was established in 2016 to bring the highest levels of men’s and women’s professional soccer to the state. For more information, please visit www.www.northcarolinafc.com.

Raleigh, NC (December 6, 2016) –  Today at an event in downtown Raleigh, Owner Steve Malik and President and General Manager Curt Johnson ushered in a New State of Soccer by announcing several initiatives bolstered by a bold new brand with a modern vision for soccer in the Triangle and North Carolina. The initiatives center around bringing the highest level of men’s and women’s professional soccer in North America to the Triangle.
 
“This is a brand restatement,” said North Carolina Football Club Owner Steve Malik. “We aspire to be at the top level of both men’s and women’s professional soccer, so we are pursuing MLS and NWSL bids as well as a new stadium. We made a conscious decision to brand ourselves as North Carolina’s professional club. A united soccer community will be one of the keys to reaching these goals.”
 
In conjunction with this brand repositioning, the Carolina RailHawks will be renamed North Carolina FC (referred to as NCFC), and will have a new crest and colors, which were revealed at today’s event.
 
The new crest features several elements that tie North Carolina’s rich culture and history together. The white five-point star sits at the peak of NCFC’s crest and is a symbol of the star on the North Carolina state flag. The star embodies North Carolina as a whole, and represents the state’s admission as the 12thUS state. The lower right point of the NCFC star representing the Triangle area geographical shape stands alone to place emphasis on the club’s location. “FC,” the acronym for football club, lies between two airplane wings as an ode to North Carolina’s slogan: “First in Flight.” Additionally, the primary crest colors “Atlantic Blue” and “Cardinal Red” are inspired by the state flag and complemented by “Southern Gold,” a nod to the legendary accomplishments of North Carolina’s athletes throughout the years.
 
“We wanted a crest that embodied the symbols that are synonymous with the state of North Carolina,” said North Carolina Football Club President and General Manager Curt Johnson. “The star, the triangle, the wings and the colors are all nods to the state’s rich culture and tradition.”
 
Malik also announced an aggressive public campaign to be awarded an MLS franchise within the next 12-18 months. This desire comes after discussions with MLS executives over the last 12 months, as well as a market study which reinforced that the Triangle would be a successful MLS Market.  
 
In addition, Malik stated he is planning to accelerate efforts to finalize a location and begin construction on a new 20,000+ seat stadium within the next year. The location and renderings will be unveiled in 2017.
 
“We feel we are well positioned for this,” Malik continued. “The market is ready for an MLS team based on our geographical location, population growth, dynamic economic environment and significant soccer participation. MLS requires a minimum of 20,000 seats with amenities in order to maximize revenue, and a new stadium is vital to our plans as it would increase the economic impact in the area and allow us to better showcase the sport.”
 
Since taking over the team, Malik has advocated for a multi-team organization. To that effect, he also announced his desire to be awarded a first-division National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) team to the Triangle in the next three to six months.
 
“We have seen tremendous success in North Carolina with women’s soccer,” Malik said. “The numerous accomplishments of local college programs, paired with the continued success of the USWNT, have driven interest in women’s youth programs. We feel the time is right to bring the highest level of women’s professional soccer to the Triangle.”
 
Lastly, North Carolina Football Club will be launching an exciting membership program to enlist widespread support from all segments of the community – individual, corporate, and governmental – to help aggressively drive the successful execution of the above initiatives.
 
“There is tremendous value to the membership program,” Johnson concluded. “Aside from allowing members to secure their priority spot for MLS and NWSL seats at a new stadium, it gives supporters the opportunity to impact the process. The best way soccer enthusiasts, supporters, fans and corporations can help us achieve our goals and be a part of this movement is by becoming season ticket members, sponsors and members of our organization. They would be putting their name and money behind growing the fan base, as well as being a part of the growth of the sport and these historic initiatives.”
 
North Carolina Football Club’s membership program is available to all fans of the club.  Memberships are included with all season ticket plans or can be purchased separately by individuals for $49. Some of the membership benefits include priority preference on seat selection for a new MLS stadium and NWSL franchise, the ability to provide input and vote on items that directly impact the fan experience on game day, and the opportunity for each season ticket member to select three special game day experiences throughout the season.
 
North Carolina FC season tickets are now on sale. Fans interested in more information about membership should visit www.www.northcarolinafc.com or call the NCFC Box Office at 919-459-8144.
 
About North Carolina FC
North Carolina FC (NCFC, formerly the Carolina RailHawks) are an American professional soccer team based in Cary, North Carolina. Founded in 2006, the team plays in the North American Soccer League (NASL). NCFC plays their home games at WakeMed Soccer Park, where they have played since 2007. For more information, please visit www.www.northcarolinafc.com or follow them on Twitter and Facebook.

About North Carolina Football Club
North Carolina Football Club is the state’s largest professional soccer organization and is the parent organization of North Carolina FC (former Carolina RailHawks NASL) and North Carolina FC Youth Programs. The organization is owned by local entrepreneur Steve Malik and managed by North Carolina native and longtime soccer executive Curt Johnson. North Carolina Football Club was established in 2016 to bring the highest levels of men’s and women’s professional soccer to the state. For more information, please visit www.www.northcarolinafc.com.

Raleigh, NC (December 6, 2016)-  North Carolina FC will be launching an exciting membership program to enlist widespread support from all segments of the community.

This membership club will support North Carolina FC’s drive to expand into the highest level’s of men’s and women’s professional soccer, including ambitions of participating in both Major League Soccer and the National Women’s Soccer League in the upcoming months.

“There is tremendous value to the membership program,” Johnson concluded. “Aside from allowing members to secure their priority spot for MLS and NWSL seats at a new stadium, it gives supporters the opportunity to impact the process. The best way soccer enthusiasts, supporters, fans and corporations can help us achieve our goals and be a part of this movement is by becoming season ticket members, sponsors and members of our organization. They would be putting their name and money behind growing the fan base, as well as being a part of the growth of the sport and these historic initiatives.”

The club is pleased to introduce a new membership club program that will help growth as a club in the future, while providing fans with exclusive benefits.

Some of the membership benefits include priority preference on seat selection for a new MLS stadium and NWSL franchise, the ability to provide input and vote on items that directly impact the fan experience on game day, and the opportunity for each season ticket member to select three special game day experiences throughout the season.

Memberships are included with all season ticket plans and can be purchased by individuals for $49. Call 919-459-8144 to speak to a North Carolina FC ticket sales representative.

Raleigh, NC (December 6, 2016)-  North Carolina FC will be launching an exciting membership program to enlist widespread support from all segments of the community.

This membership club will support North Carolina FC’s drive to expand into the highest level’s of men’s and women’s professional soccer, including ambitions of participating in both Major League Soccer and the National Women’s Soccer League in the upcoming months.

“There is tremendous value to the membership program,” Johnson concluded. “Aside from allowing members to secure their priority spot for MLS and NWSL seats at a new stadium, it gives supporters the opportunity to impact the process. The best way soccer enthusiasts, supporters, fans and corporations can help us achieve our goals and be a part of this movement is by becoming season ticket members, sponsors and members of our organization. They would be putting their name and money behind growing the fan base, as well as being a part of the growth of the sport and these historic initiatives.”

The club is pleased to introduce a new membership club program that will help growth as a club in the future, while providing fans with exclusive benefits.

Some of the membership benefits include priority preference on seat selection for a new MLS stadium and NWSL franchise, the ability to provide input and vote on items that directly impact the fan experience on game day, and the opportunity for each season ticket member to select three special game day experiences throughout the season.

Memberships are included with all season ticket plans and can be purchased by individuals for $49. Call 919-459-8144 to speak to a North Carolina FC ticket sales representative.

Cary N.C. (November 10, 2016)- Carolina RailHawks captain Nazmi Albadawi has been named to the North American Soccer League’s (NASL) Best XI for 2016, the league announced on Friday.
 
“It feels good to be recognized by the league and by the coaches and the media of the league,” said Albadawi. “Obviously I wouldn’t have been able to do it without all of my teammates and staff here. I’m honored to be a part of that group.”
 
The midfielder started all 29 games played this season and earned the most minutes on the team with 2,537. Albadawi’s record-breaking ten assists were the highlight of his standout year, as he now holds the NASL record for most assists in a single season. The player with the second most assists in the league trails by three.
 
Albadawi has caught the league’s attention several times this year, as he was named to the NASL Team of the Week four times and was the NASL Player of the Week in Week 2 of the Fall Season. Additionally, he received a nomination for the Golden Ball Award that is given to the league’s most valuable player.
 
He was also voted the Offensive Player of the Year and Team MVP by his fellow teammates and RailHawks coaching staff. He ended the season with 36 total shots and an 81.4 percent passing accuracy.
 
A Raleigh native, Albadawi grew up a RailHawks fan and attended several games in his youth. Because of his close ties to the Triangle, he has been active in the local community throughout his three seasons as a RailHawks player. He was recognized this year for his charitable efforts when he was named one of three Summit Hospitality Community Service Award winners. Albadawi's impressive stats and impeccable leadership on and off the field undeniably raises the esteem of both the club and the community.

Other players named to the NASL Best XI include:
GK: Matt VanOekel (FC Edmonton)
D: Ayoze (New York Cosmos)
D: Carlos Mendes (New York Cosmos)
D: Albert Watson (FC Edmonton)
D: Justin Davis (Minnesota United)
M: Nazmi Albadawi (Carolina RailHawks)
M: Juan Arango (New York Cosmos)
M: Joe Cole (Tampa Bay Rowdies)
M: Michel (Rayo OKC)
F: Christian Ramirez (Minnesota United)
F: Eamon Zayed (Indy Eleven)

Additionally, the Carolina RailHawks were awarded the Fair Play Award for the 2016 NASL Season for accumulating the fewest number of cards over the course of the Spring and Fall Seasons.

Cary N.C. (November 10, 2016)- Carolina RailHawks captain Nazmi Albadawi has been named to the North American Soccer League’s (NASL) Best XI for 2016, the league announced on Friday.
 
“It feels good to be recognized by the league and by the coaches and the media of the league,” said Albadawi. “Obviously I wouldn’t have been able to do it without all of my teammates and staff here. I’m honored to be a part of that group.”
 
The midfielder started all 29 games played this season and earned the most minutes on the team with 2,537. Albadawi’s record-breaking ten assists were the highlight of his standout year, as he now holds the NASL record for most assists in a single season. The player with the second most assists in the league trails by three.
 
Albadawi has caught the league’s attention several times this year, as he was named to the NASL Team of the Week four times and was the NASL Player of the Week in Week 2 of the Fall Season. Additionally, he received a nomination for the Golden Ball Award that is given to the league’s most valuable player.
 
He was also voted the Offensive Player of the Year and Team MVP by his fellow teammates and RailHawks coaching staff. He ended the season with 36 total shots and an 81.4 percent passing accuracy.
 
A Raleigh native, Albadawi grew up a RailHawks fan and attended several games in his youth. Because of his close ties to the Triangle, he has been active in the local community throughout his three seasons as a RailHawks player. He was recognized this year for his charitable efforts when he was named one of three Summit Hospitality Community Service Award winners. Albadawi’s impressive stats and impeccable leadership on and off the field undeniably raises the esteem of both the club and the community.

Other players named to the NASL Best XI include:
GK: Matt VanOekel (FC Edmonton)
D: Ayoze (New York Cosmos)
D: Carlos Mendes (New York Cosmos)
D: Albert Watson (FC Edmonton)
D: Justin Davis (Minnesota United)
M: Nazmi Albadawi (Carolina RailHawks)
M: Juan Arango (New York Cosmos)
M: Joe Cole (Tampa Bay Rowdies)
M: Michel (Rayo OKC)
F: Christian Ramirez (Minnesota United)
F: Eamon Zayed (Indy Eleven)

Additionally, the Carolina RailHawks were awarded the Fair Play Award for the 2016 NASL Season for accumulating the fewest number of cards over the course of the Spring and Fall Seasons.