corporate-logo
#UnitedForSoccer

North Carolina FC

Just another www.northcarolinafc.com Sites site

HomeArchives for News Collector

News Collector

NCFC YOUTH ACADEMY CONTINUES IMPRESSIVE SEASON

The NCFC Youth Academy continued its season over the weekend. Many of the Academy teams made trips to Florida to take on Orlando City SC and Boca United FC, while other Academy teams traveled within the state to take on ISL FC, Charlotte Soccer Academy (CSA) and the NC Fusion.
 
Overall, the academy had a great weekend, capped off by an undefeated trip to Florida with a 4W-0L-2D record against Orlando City SC and Boca United FC.
 
In Charlotte, NCFC North U12 faced ISL FC U12 and NCFC South U12 battled CSA North U12 in two highly competitive competitions between quality opponents. NCFC North U12 earned 2-1 and 5-0 results over ISL FC U12. In addition to the victories, the side did well to implement its training ideas into the games.

The South U12 team powered past CSA U12 4-0 in the first game with a hat trick from Lorenzo Marin (Man of the Match) and another goal from Joseph Abdenour. In the second match, the sides tied 2-2, while Hector Rodriguez (Man of the Match) and Ryan Toland scored for NCFC.
 
The following day, the North U12 team wrapped up a great weekend and won 2-0 and 5-0 over Discoveries Soccer Club U12.
 
Both the NCFC North U13 and U14 teams traveled to Charlotte to face ISL FC. The U13 side drew against ISL FC 3-3 with goals from Jackson Betz, Alexander Martin, and Alberto Olea. Betz found the equalizer to tie the game up in the 70th minute to secure the side one point on the day. The NCFC North U14 boys were triumphant with a 4-2 win over ISL FC with goals from Christian Lee, Marvin Mariche, Osvaldo Monreal, and Yekeson Subah. Lee gave the side the lead in the 73rd minute, and Mariche sealed the win with his strike in the 80th minute.
 
In Florida, NCFC U15, NCFC U17, and NCFC U19 all went undefeated over Orlando City SC and Boca United FC. NCFC U15 outlasted Orlando City U15 3-2 through a Joshua Gilbert hat trick. The side also took down Boca United via a 5-1 result in an essential road victory for the side. Braces from Luke Hille and Collin McCamy along with a goal for Ricardo Yofre accounted for the offense.
 
NCFC U17 drew 2-2 against a quality side in Orlando City U17 and then powered past Boca United 2-0 to close out the weekend of play. Justin Stone had an offensive outburst and scored all four goals for the team. Trace Alphin earned the shutout in goal over Boca.
 
The NCFC U19 boys trounced Orlando City U19 5-1 in a huge win for the side to open the weekend. Sheldon China provided a goal, while Miguel Montano and Miles Peay both scored twice. Montano iced Orlando City with NCFC’s fifth goal in the 79th minute.
 
The following day, the team played to a 3-3 draw with Boca United FC U19 in a wild match. Daniel Wu had a goal and Orlin Roque had a double on the day. The match saw the teams earn a combined eight yellow cards, while Boca had a man sent off. Boca held a 3-2 lead in the closing stages of the match, but Roque was there for NCFC to notch the game tying goal in the 90th minute to secure the draw.
 
NCFC Youth Academy will be back in action next weekend with six teams competing in intra-club matches. NCFC North and NCFC South will face off in respective matches at the U12, U13 and U14 levels at Mills Park in Cary, N.C., on October 7.
 
Results on Sep. 23
NCFC Youth Del Sol U12: 1
NC Fusion U12: 5
 
NCFC Youth Del Sol U12: 1
NC Fusion U12: 4
 
NCFC Youth South U12: 4
Charlotte Soccer Academy North U12: 0
 
NCFC Youth South U12: 2
Charlotte Soccer Academy North U12: 2
 
NCFC Youth North U12: 2
ISL FC U12: 1
 
NCFC Youth North U12: 5
ISL FC U12: 0
 
NCFC Youth North U13: 3
ISL FC U13: 3
 
NCFC Youth North U14: 4
ISL FC U14: 2
 
NCFC Youth U15: 3
Orlando City SC U15: 2
 
NCFC Youth U17: 2
Orlando City SC U17: 2
 
NCFC Youth U19: 5
Orlando City SC U19: 1
 
Results on Sep. 24
NCFC Youth North U12: 2
Discoveries SC U12: 0
 
NCFC Youth North U12: 5
Discoveries SC U12: 0
 
NCFC Youth U15: 5
Boca United FC U15: 1
 
NCFC Youth U17: 2
Boca United FC U17: 0
 
NCFC Youth U19: 3
Boca United FC U19: 3

The NCFC Youth Academy continued its season over the weekend. Many of the Academy teams made trips to Florida to take on Orlando City SC and Boca United FC, while other Academy teams traveled within the state to take on ISL FC, Charlotte Soccer Academy (CSA) and the NC Fusion.
 
Overall, the academy had a great weekend, capped off by an undefeated trip to Florida with a 4W-0L-2D record against Orlando City SC and Boca United FC.
 
In Charlotte, NCFC North U12 faced ISL FC U12 and NCFC South U12 battled CSA North U12 in two highly competitive competitions between quality opponents. NCFC North U12 earned 2-1 and 5-0 results over ISL FC U12. In addition to the victories, the side did well to implement its training ideas into the games.

The South U12 team powered past CSA U12 4-0 in the first game with a hat trick from Lorenzo Marin (Man of the Match) and another goal from Joseph Abdenour. In the second match, the sides tied 2-2, while Hector Rodriguez (Man of the Match) and Ryan Toland scored for NCFC.
 
The following day, the North U12 team wrapped up a great weekend and won 2-0 and 5-0 over Discoveries Soccer Club U12.
 
Both the NCFC North U13 and U14 teams traveled to Charlotte to face ISL FC. The U13 side drew against ISL FC 3-3 with goals from Jackson Betz, Alexander Martin, and Alberto Olea. Betz found the equalizer to tie the game up in the 70th minute to secure the side one point on the day. The NCFC North U14 boys were triumphant with a 4-2 win over ISL FC with goals from Christian Lee, Marvin Mariche, Osvaldo Monreal, and Yekeson Subah. Lee gave the side the lead in the 73rd minute, and Mariche sealed the win with his strike in the 80th minute.
 
In Florida, NCFC U15, NCFC U17, and NCFC U19 all went undefeated over Orlando City SC and Boca United FC. NCFC U15 outlasted Orlando City U15 3-2 through a Joshua Gilbert hat trick. The side also took down Boca United via a 5-1 result in an essential road victory for the side. Braces from Luke Hille and Collin McCamy along with a goal for Ricardo Yofre accounted for the offense.
 
NCFC U17 drew 2-2 against a quality side in Orlando City U17 and then powered past Boca United 2-0 to close out the weekend of play. Justin Stone had an offensive outburst and scored all four goals for the team. Trace Alphin earned the shutout in goal over Boca.
 
The NCFC U19 boys trounced Orlando City U19 5-1 in a huge win for the side to open the weekend. Sheldon China provided a goal, while Miguel Montano and Miles Peay both scored twice. Montano iced Orlando City with NCFC’s fifth goal in the 79th minute.
 
The following day, the team played to a 3-3 draw with Boca United FC U19 in a wild match. Daniel Wu had a goal and Orlin Roque had a double on the day. The match saw the teams earn a combined eight yellow cards, while Boca had a man sent off. Boca held a 3-2 lead in the closing stages of the match, but Roque was there for NCFC to notch the game tying goal in the 90th minute to secure the draw.
 
NCFC Youth Academy will be back in action next weekend with six teams competing in intra-club matches. NCFC North and NCFC South will face off in respective matches at the U12, U13 and U14 levels at Mills Park in Cary, N.C., on October 7.
 
Results on Sep. 23
NCFC Youth Del Sol U12: 1
NC Fusion U12: 5
 
NCFC Youth Del Sol U12: 1
NC Fusion U12: 4
 
NCFC Youth South U12: 4
Charlotte Soccer Academy North U12: 0
 
NCFC Youth South U12: 2
Charlotte Soccer Academy North U12: 2
 
NCFC Youth North U12: 2
ISL FC U12: 1
 
NCFC Youth North U12: 5
ISL FC U12: 0
 
NCFC Youth North U13: 3
ISL FC U13: 3
 
NCFC Youth North U14: 4
ISL FC U14: 2
 
NCFC Youth U15: 3
Orlando City SC U15: 2
 
NCFC Youth U17: 2
Orlando City SC U17: 2
 
NCFC Youth U19: 5
Orlando City SC U19: 1
 
Results on Sep. 24
NCFC Youth North U12: 2
Discoveries SC U12: 0
 
NCFC Youth North U12: 5
Discoveries SC U12: 0
 
NCFC Youth U15: 5
Boca United FC U15: 1
 
NCFC Youth U17: 2
Boca United FC U17: 0
 
NCFC Youth U19: 3
Boca United FC U19: 3

NORTH CAROLINA FOOTBALL CLUB ANNOUNCES PREFERRED LOCATION FOR ENTERTAINMENT, SPORTS AND ATHLETIC COMPLEX IN DOWNTOWN RALEIGH; RELEASES INITIAL STADIUM RENDERINGS

CARY, N.C. (July 19, 2017) – North Carolina Football Club is asking the State of North Carolina to enter into a dialogue to facilitate a public-private partnership to build a mixed-use community featuring an entertainment, sports and athletics venue that would be home to a Major League Soccer (MLS) team. In partnership with Kane Realty, this community will include conference space; office, hospitality and retail space; housing and public parking.
 
The project’s footprint is approximately 13 acres in the area currently known as the State Government Complex, located within the boundaries of Peace St., Salisbury St., Lane St. and the CSX Rail easement.
 
“This is another important step in our pursuit of a Major League Soccer Franchise,” said North Carolina Football Club Owner, Steve Malik. “Our vision is to make this facility a crown jewel for downtown Raleigh, providing a world-class sporting and social experience for fans and the community. We are ready to engage all of the relevant constituents, including our community members, legislators, city, county and state officials, to address questions and concerns and bring this vision to life.” 

The preferred stadium location was publicly announced at a press conference in downtown Raleigh on July 19 during the visit of Major League Soccer President and Deputy Commissioner Mark Abbott.
 
Initial renderings for the proposed project were also released at the press conference. The designs were created by world-renowned firm Gensler, a global leader in areas as diverse as stadium architecture, design, planning and consulting.
 
An economic development study, conducted by Economic Leadership LLC, has shown that the combination of bringing an MLS expansion team, building a soccer-specific stadium and establishing a mixed-use development for residents to live, work and play could generate significant benefits to the local economy and the state as a whole. Over the course of the next 17 years, this public-private partnership is expected to provide a net present value of $2.8 billion to the state of North Carolina, generating $262 million annually in state economic activity and create or support almost 2,000 jobs. In addition, it could create an additional $5.6 million in state taxpayer revenue each year.
 
In January, North Carolina Football Club was one of 12 markets to submit a bid to bring an MLS franchise to the Triangle. Since that time, the club acquired the rights to the Western New York Flash of the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), moving the team to the Triangle and subsequently renaming the team North Carolina Courage. The organization also entered into an historic collaboration with Capital Area Soccer League (CASL) and Triangle Futbol Club Alliance (TFCA), resulting in the largest youth-to-pro soccer club in the United States. As part of this agreement, CASL and TFCA have rebranded as North Carolina FC Youth.
 
For more information about North Carolina Football Club’s efforts to bring MLS to the Triangle, visit https://www.northcarolinafc.com/mls.
 
About North Carolina Football Club
North Carolina Football Club is the largest youth-to-professional soccer organization in the country. The club is comprised of a women’s First Division team, North Carolina Courage (NWSL), a men’s Second Division team, North Carolina FC (NASL), as well as a Premier Development League team, North Carolina FC U23 (USLPDL). The organization is also home to both Boys and Girls U.S. Soccer Development Academies. The North Carolina Football Club is owned by local entrepreneur, Steve Malik, and managed by North Carolina native and longtime soccer executive Curt Johnson. North Carolina Football Club was established in 2016 to bring the highest levels of men’s and women’s professional soccer to the state. For more information, please visit www.www.northcarolinafc.com.

CARY, N.C. (July 19, 2017) – North Carolina Football Club is asking the State of North Carolina to enter into a dialogue to facilitate a public-private partnership to build a mixed-use community featuring an entertainment, sports and athletics venue that would be home to a Major League Soccer (MLS) team. In partnership with Kane Realty, this community will include conference space; office, hospitality and retail space; housing and public parking.
 
The project’s footprint is approximately 13 acres in the area currently known as the State Government Complex, located within the boundaries of Peace St., Salisbury St., Lane St. and the CSX Rail easement.
 
“This is another important step in our pursuit of a Major League Soccer Franchise,” said North Carolina Football Club Owner, Steve Malik. “Our vision is to make this facility a crown jewel for downtown Raleigh, providing a world-class sporting and social experience for fans and the community. We are ready to engage all of the relevant constituents, including our community members, legislators, city, county and state officials, to address questions and concerns and bring this vision to life.” 

The preferred stadium location was publicly announced at a press conference in downtown Raleigh on July 19 during the visit of Major League Soccer President and Deputy Commissioner Mark Abbott.
 
Initial renderings for the proposed project were also released at the press conference. The designs were created by world-renowned firm Gensler, a global leader in areas as diverse as stadium architecture, design, planning and consulting.
 
An economic development study, conducted by Economic Leadership LLC, has shown that the combination of bringing an MLS expansion team, building a soccer-specific stadium and establishing a mixed-use development for residents to live, work and play could generate significant benefits to the local economy and the state as a whole. Over the course of the next 17 years, this public-private partnership is expected to provide a net present value of $2.8 billion to the state of North Carolina, generating $262 million annually in state economic activity and create or support almost 2,000 jobs. In addition, it could create an additional $5.6 million in state taxpayer revenue each year.
 
In January, North Carolina Football Club was one of 12 markets to submit a bid to bring an MLS franchise to the Triangle. Since that time, the club acquired the rights to the Western New York Flash of the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), moving the team to the Triangle and subsequently renaming the team North Carolina Courage. The organization also entered into an historic collaboration with Capital Area Soccer League (CASL) and Triangle Futbol Club Alliance (TFCA), resulting in the largest youth-to-pro soccer club in the United States. As part of this agreement, CASL and TFCA have rebranded as North Carolina FC Youth.
 
For more information about North Carolina Football Club’s efforts to bring MLS to the Triangle, visit https://www.northcarolinafc.com/mls.
 
About North Carolina Football Club
North Carolina Football Club is the largest youth-to-professional soccer organization in the country. The club is comprised of a women’s First Division team, North Carolina Courage (NWSL), a men’s Second Division team, North Carolina FC (NASL), as well as a Premier Development League team, North Carolina FC U23 (USLPDL). The organization is also home to both Boys and Girls U.S. Soccer Development Academies. The North Carolina Football Club is owned by local entrepreneur, Steve Malik, and managed by North Carolina native and longtime soccer executive Curt Johnson. North Carolina Football Club was established in 2016 to bring the highest levels of men’s and women’s professional soccer to the state. For more information, please visit www.www.northcarolinafc.com.

CAPITAL AREA RAILHAWKS ACADEMY TEAMS SET FOR DEVELOPMENTAL PLAYOFFS

North Carolina FC, the most comprehensive youth-to-professional soccer club in the United States, has qualified both its U16 and U18 Academy teams for the U.S. Soccer Developmental Academy Playoffs group stage from June 22-26 at Grand Park in Westfield, Ind. The tournament features the top youth teams in the country and has been a platform for academies to step into the national spotlight.

The Capital Area RailHawks are one of 23 academy clubs to qualify both its U16 and U18 teams for the playoffs.

“To have both our 16/18’s qualified to compete in the US Soccer Development Academy Playoffs again in 2017 is a special accomplishment that we as a program are very proud of,” said Capital Area RailHawks Academy Director John Bradford. “This is a testament to the dedication of our players, families, and staff throughout the year. We are thrilled to be one of only 23 clubs in the country that qualified both age groups and even more proud to have placed both groups in the top 10 in the U.S. heading into the competition.”

The U16s enter the competiton as the No. 6 overall seed and the top seed in Group D. The team is paired with Bethesda SC, Real So Cal and Oakwood Soccer Club. The U16 RailHawks finished second in the Southeast Division with a 18-5-7 record for 61 points. The U16s will have its game against Real So Cal on June 24 at 3:30 p.m. broadcast live on the Developmental Academy Facebook page here.

The U18s were drawn into Group F along with MLS academy teams from Chicago Fire and Colorado Rapids. The Baltimore Armour is the top seed in the group and is ranked eighth nationally. The U18 RailHawks finished third in the Southeast Division with a 19-5-6 record for 63 points, earning the ninth overall seed.

Following the group stages, the eight group winners will advance to the knockout round (hosted by the higher seed) on July 6. The winners from the knockout round will advance to the Development Academy Championships in Carson, Calif. on July 14-16.

Both teams are aiming for a successful showing on the national stage. 

“Each year when our teams go to playoffs, we have high hopes of our teams performing well. This year, we have a firm belief within both groups that we can advance out of our group and progress towards a national championship,” Bradford added. “Our staff and players have been preparing tirelessly to be able to execute our style of soccer in Indianapolis and represent our program to the highest standard. We look forward to taking the event game by game and enjoying the process as we go. For our 16A, this represents an opportunity to continue their individual and team development after a strong spring season and resume taking positive steps in the right direction. For the majority of the 18A players, this represents the culmination of their youth soccer careers and I know they intend to give their best efforts for themselves, each other, and the program.”
 
U16 Group D Preview
The U16 Capital Area RailHawks headline Group D as the top seed. The team earned its national seed with strong play throughout the regular season, securing points from 25 of its 30 contests, while posting a goal differential of +29. They will face off against No. 10 national seed and East Atlantic champions Bethesda SC, as well as wildcard opponents Real So Cal and Oakwood Soccer Club.

U18 Group F Preview                                                                                                                                                           
The U18 Capital Area RailHawks enter the playoffs as the most dangerous attacking unit in the country. The team has scored 104 goals this season, 12 goals more than the next closest team. Baltimore enters the competition as the top seed in the group, just one spot higher in the national rankings than the RailHawks. MLS academies from Chicago and Colorado round out the group. Both teams advanced to the group stage via the wildcard pool.
 
Academy Playoffs Schedule:

U18:
June 22nd 6:30 p.m. Capital Area RailHawks vs. Chicago Fire
June 24th 6:30 p.m. Capital Area RailHawks vs. Colorado Rapids
June 26th 6:30 p.m. Capital Area RailHawks vs. Baltimore Armour

U16:
June 22nd 3:30 p.m. Capital Area RailHawks vs. Oakwood Soccer Club
June 24th 3:30 p.m. Capital Area Railhawks vs. Real So Cal (Watch Live)
June 26th 3:30 p.m. Capital Area RailHawks vs. Bethesda SC

North Carolina FC, the most comprehensive youth-to-professional soccer club in the United States, has qualified both its U16 and U18 Academy teams for the U.S. Soccer Developmental Academy Playoffs group stage from June 22-26 at Grand Park in Westfield, Ind. The tournament features the top youth teams in the country and has been a platform for academies to step into the national spotlight.

The Capital Area RailHawks are one of 23 academy clubs to qualify both its U16 and U18 teams for the playoffs.

“To have both our 16/18’s qualified to compete in the US Soccer Development Academy Playoffs again in 2017 is a special accomplishment that we as a program are very proud of,” said Capital Area RailHawks Academy Director John Bradford. “This is a testament to the dedication of our players, families, and staff throughout the year. We are thrilled to be one of only 23 clubs in the country that qualified both age groups and even more proud to have placed both groups in the top 10 in the U.S. heading into the competition.”

The U16s enter the competiton as the No. 6 overall seed and the top seed in Group D. The team is paired with Bethesda SC, Real So Cal and Oakwood Soccer Club. The U16 RailHawks finished second in the Southeast Division with a 18-5-7 record for 61 points. The U16s will have its game against Real So Cal on June 24 at 3:30 p.m. broadcast live on the Developmental Academy Facebook page here.

The U18s were drawn into Group F along with MLS academy teams from Chicago Fire and Colorado Rapids. The Baltimore Armour is the top seed in the group and is ranked eighth nationally. The U18 RailHawks finished third in the Southeast Division with a 19-5-6 record for 63 points, earning the ninth overall seed.

Following the group stages, the eight group winners will advance to the knockout round (hosted by the higher seed) on July 6. The winners from the knockout round will advance to the Development Academy Championships in Carson, Calif. on July 14-16.

Both teams are aiming for a successful showing on the national stage. 

“Each year when our teams go to playoffs, we have high hopes of our teams performing well. This year, we have a firm belief within both groups that we can advance out of our group and progress towards a national championship,” Bradford added. “Our staff and players have been preparing tirelessly to be able to execute our style of soccer in Indianapolis and represent our program to the highest standard. We look forward to taking the event game by game and enjoying the process as we go. For our 16A, this represents an opportunity to continue their individual and team development after a strong spring season and resume taking positive steps in the right direction. For the majority of the 18A players, this represents the culmination of their youth soccer careers and I know they intend to give their best efforts for themselves, each other, and the program.”
 
U16 Group D Preview
The U16 Capital Area RailHawks headline Group D as the top seed. The team earned its national seed with strong play throughout the regular season, securing points from 25 of its 30 contests, while posting a goal differential of +29. They will face off against No. 10 national seed and East Atlantic champions Bethesda SC, as well as wildcard opponents Real So Cal and Oakwood Soccer Club.

U18 Group F Preview                                                                                                                                                           
The U18 Capital Area RailHawks enter the playoffs as the most dangerous attacking unit in the country. The team has scored 104 goals this season, 12 goals more than the next closest team. Baltimore enters the competition as the top seed in the group, just one spot higher in the national rankings than the RailHawks. MLS academies from Chicago and Colorado round out the group. Both teams advanced to the group stage via the wildcard pool.
 
Academy Playoffs Schedule:

U18:
June 22nd 6:30 p.m. Capital Area RailHawks vs. Chicago Fire
June 24th 6:30 p.m. Capital Area RailHawks vs. Colorado Rapids
June 26th 6:30 p.m. Capital Area RailHawks vs. Baltimore Armour

U16:
June 22nd 3:30 p.m. Capital Area RailHawks vs. Oakwood Soccer Club
June 24th 3:30 p.m. Capital Area Railhawks vs. Real So Cal (Watch Live)
June 26th 3:30 p.m. Capital Area RailHawks vs. Bethesda SC

North Carolina Courage Defeat the Portland Thorns 1-0 in Inaugural Home Opener

Cary, NC (April 22, 2017)– The North Carolina Courage (2W-0L-0T; 6 pts) played to an impressive 1-0 win in their inaugural home opener on Saturday night against the Portland Thorns (1W-1L-0T; 3 pts) at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. Debinha scored the club’s first home goal in history in the 81st minute with a running header after she found Jessica McDonald’s cross.
 
After both teams settled in, the NC Courage had their first opportunity in the 7thminute, as they earned a free kick, which McDonald took from the right wing.
 
Though McDonald was unable to convert, the Courage got another quality chance nine minutes later, as McCall Zerboni, who scored the Courage’s first ever goal last weekend against the Washington Spirit, had a powerful shot from a distance that veered wide.
 
The Courage continued to apply pressure, as McDonald had another opportunity in the 19th minute with a header from the left side of the six-yard box that missed just left.
 
In the 30th minute, the Courage were just inches away, as Debinha nearly netted a goal off a bicycle kick, following a cross from Lynn Williams and a shot from Makenzy Doniak, creating chaos in the box.
 
Williams was causing trouble, as she had consecutive chances in the 39th and 42ndminutes, with one shot going high and wide, and the other forcing Thorns goalkeeper Adrianna Franch to make a save.
 
Though halftime came and the match remained scoreless, the Courage outshot the Thorns 9-2. Additionally, the Courage held about 60 percent of possession in the first half.
 
After returning from halftime, the Courage were incredibly close to netting their first goal at Sahlen’s Stadium in the 55th minute. Sam Mewis forced Franch to make a save, however, the ball dribbled out of her hands and a charging Williams nearly slipped the ball past the keeper, but the play was called offside.
 
It was Williams again in the 59th minute, as the forward made a run with a through ball, but her shot went slightly wide.
 
Another opportunity for North Carolina came in the 74th minute, as a Portland hand ball in the box resulted in a penalty kick that was taken by Sam Mewis, but Franch was able to smother the ball.
 
Finally, the Courage were rewarded for their persistence, as Debinha scored the team’s first goal at Sahlen’s Stadium in the 81st minute. The Brazilian midfielder found a cross from McDonald, and with a running header, slotted the ball past Franch.
 
Overall, the Courage outshot the Thorns 14-2 and picked up all three points from the home win that kept them currently unbeaten in the regular season.
 

Notes: 

  • This was Debinha’s first goal in 2017 and first with the NC Courage.
  • Jessica McDonald recorded her first assist of the season. She recorded a total of seven in 2016.
  • Abby Erceg returned to the lineup after missing the first game of the season due to injury.
  • Ashley Hatch made her professional debut coming on for Jessica McDonald in the 89th minute.

 
Lineups:
NC Courage: Sabrina D’Angelo; Jaelene Hinkle, Abby Erceg ©, Abby Dahlkemper, Yuri Kawamura; McCall Zerboni, Sam Mewis, Debinha (Rosana,85’), Makenzy Doniak (Taylor Smith, 77); Lynn Williams, Jessica McDonald (Ashley Hatch, 89’)
 
Subs not used: Katelyn Rowland, Meredith Speck, Sam Witteman, Kristen Hamilton
 

Portland Thorns: Adrianna Franch; Emily Sonnett, Emily Menges, Meghan Klingenberg (Meghan Cox, 46’); Amandine Henry, Lindsey Horan (Mana Shim, 77’), Allie Long, Celeste Bourielle, Nadia Nadim; Mallory Weber (Hayley Raso, 65’), Christine Sinclair  ©
 
Subs not used: Britt Eckerstrom, Meg Morris

Score:
NC: 1
POR: 0
 
Goals:
NC: Debinha (Jessica McDonald, 81’)
POR: —
 
Cautions: 
NC: Yuri Kawamura (27’), Sam Mewis (76’)
POR: —
 
Ejections:
NC: —
POR: —
 
Attendance: 6,298
 

###

Cary, NC (April 22, 2017)– The North Carolina Courage (2W-0L-0T; 6 pts) played to an impressive 1-0 win in their inaugural home opener on Saturday night against the Portland Thorns (1W-1L-0T; 3 pts) at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. Debinha scored the club’s first home goal in history in the 81st minute with a running header after she found Jessica McDonald’s cross.
 
After both teams settled in, the NC Courage had their first opportunity in the 7thminute, as they earned a free kick, which McDonald took from the right wing.
 
Though McDonald was unable to convert, the Courage got another quality chance nine minutes later, as McCall Zerboni, who scored the Courage’s first ever goal last weekend against the Washington Spirit, had a powerful shot from a distance that veered wide.
 
The Courage continued to apply pressure, as McDonald had another opportunity in the 19th minute with a header from the left side of the six-yard box that missed just left.
 
In the 30th minute, the Courage were just inches away, as Debinha nearly netted a goal off a bicycle kick, following a cross from Lynn Williams and a shot from Makenzy Doniak, creating chaos in the box.
 
Williams was causing trouble, as she had consecutive chances in the 39th and 42ndminutes, with one shot going high and wide, and the other forcing Thorns goalkeeper Adrianna Franch to make a save.
 
Though halftime came and the match remained scoreless, the Courage outshot the Thorns 9-2. Additionally, the Courage held about 60 percent of possession in the first half.
 
After returning from halftime, the Courage were incredibly close to netting their first goal at Sahlen’s Stadium in the 55th minute. Sam Mewis forced Franch to make a save, however, the ball dribbled out of her hands and a charging Williams nearly slipped the ball past the keeper, but the play was called offside.
 
It was Williams again in the 59th minute, as the forward made a run with a through ball, but her shot went slightly wide.
 
Another opportunity for North Carolina came in the 74th minute, as a Portland hand ball in the box resulted in a penalty kick that was taken by Sam Mewis, but Franch was able to smother the ball.
 
Finally, the Courage were rewarded for their persistence, as Debinha scored the team’s first goal at Sahlen’s Stadium in the 81st minute. The Brazilian midfielder found a cross from McDonald, and with a running header, slotted the ball past Franch.
 
Overall, the Courage outshot the Thorns 14-2 and picked up all three points from the home win that kept them currently unbeaten in the regular season.
 

Notes: 

  • This was Debinha’s first goal in 2017 and first with the NC Courage.
  • Jessica McDonald recorded her first assist of the season. She recorded a total of seven in 2016.
  • Abby Erceg returned to the lineup after missing the first game of the season due to injury.
  • Ashley Hatch made her professional debut coming on for Jessica McDonald in the 89th minute.

 
Lineups:
NC Courage: Sabrina D’Angelo; Jaelene Hinkle, Abby Erceg ©, Abby Dahlkemper, Yuri Kawamura; McCall Zerboni, Sam Mewis, Debinha (Rosana,85’), Makenzy Doniak (Taylor Smith, 77); Lynn Williams, Jessica McDonald (Ashley Hatch, 89’)
 
Subs not used: Katelyn Rowland, Meredith Speck, Sam Witteman, Kristen Hamilton
 

Portland Thorns: Adrianna Franch; Emily Sonnett, Emily Menges, Meghan Klingenberg (Meghan Cox, 46’); Amandine Henry, Lindsey Horan (Mana Shim, 77’), Allie Long, Celeste Bourielle, Nadia Nadim; Mallory Weber (Hayley Raso, 65’), Christine Sinclair  ©
 
Subs not used: Britt Eckerstrom, Meg Morris

Score:
NC: 1
POR: 0
 
Goals:
NC: Debinha (Jessica McDonald, 81’)
POR: —
 
Cautions: 
NC: Yuri Kawamura (27’), Sam Mewis (76’)
POR: —
 
Ejections:
NC: —
POR: —
 
Attendance: 6,298
 

###

North Carolina Football Club Enters into Agreement to Acquire Rights to NWSLs 2016 Champions Western New York Flash

Cary, NC (January 9, 2017)- North Carolina Football Club announced today it has entered into an agreement to acquire the rights to the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) 2016 Champion Western New York Flash. The club will be renamed North Carolina Courage (also referred to as NC Courage) and will play at WakeMed Soccer Park in the 2017 NWSL season.
 
“We are excited to be able to bring the highest level of professional women’s soccer back to the Triangle,” said North Carolina Football Club Owner, Steve Malik. “This is an important step in the plan we set forth last month, and as we continue to develop, we look forward to the continued support of our community. I would like to thank the Sahlen family for giving us the opportunity to enter into this agreement to acquire the Western New York Flash and look forward to a long and rewarding partnership as we continue to grow the women’s game in North Carolina and the nation.”
 
The North Carolina Courage crest is a nod to the history of women’s professional soccer in North Carolina, incorporating a stylized lion, a major component of the old Carolina Courage logo, while retaining the brand identity of the club’s parent organization with the signature North Carolina Football Club star and the separated triangle. Additionally, the colors mirror those of the men’s side, uniting the two teams under the North Carolina Football Club umbrella, while maintaining their individual identity.
 
Malik announced his intent to secure the awarding of an NWSL team to the Triangle within three to six months, on December 6, 2016, and this acquisition has achieved that objective in only one month’s time. As part of the deal, the players under contract will remain on the 2017 NC Courage roster. Click here for the full roster.
 
Founded by the Sahlen family in 2008 as the Buffalo Flash in the USL W-League, the North Carolina Courage (former WNY Flash) is one of the most decorated women’s professional soccer teams, winning four championships in three different leagues. Most recently, the club won the 2016 NWSL Championship on October 9 by defeating the Washington Spirit in penalty kicks.
 
Led by team captain and New Zealand international Abby Erceg, the club’s roster includes U.S. Women’s National Team midfielder Sam Mewis, Canadian goalkeeper Sabrina D’Angelo and 2016 NWSL Golden Boot Winner and MVP Lynn Williams. Mewis, Williams and fellow teammate Jessica McDonald each earned caps with the USWNT in 2016. The three players listed, along with Taylor Smith and Jaelene Hinkle, have been recently called into the upcoming USWNT training camp set to begin on January 13, 2017.
 
“Welcoming Steve Malik and the entire North Carolina Football Club organization represents a significant milestone in the history of our league,” NWSL Commissioner Jeff Plush said.  “There is no question that Steve and his leadership team are well-positioned to manage the opportunities ahead of them by acquiring the WNY Flash and relaunching the club in North Carolina.  Specifically, the Triangle has long had a spectacular reputation for its wonderful fans and deep roots in the game, from major youth clubs to excellent college programs. In addition, WakeMed Soccer Park provides a world-class facility that will serve the league, the team and its fans very well.”    
 
The State of North Carolina has always been a leader in women’s soccer. It has produced several legends including Mia Hamm, Kristine Lilly, Heather O’Reilly, Charmaine Hooper and Carla Overbeck, and UNC women’s coaching legend Anson Dorrance. The Triangle was the home of WUSA’s 2002 Founders Cup Champion Carolina Courage for three seasons before the league folded the following year.
 
North Carolina is also home to the most dominant college soccer program in history, the 22-time NCAA National Champion UNC Tar Heels. Four teams from the state participated in the 2016 Women’s College Cup including UNC-Charlotte, NC State (Third Round), Duke (Quarterfinals), and UNC-Chapel Hill (Semifinals). 
 
The North Carolina Courage will be participating in the upcoming 2017 NWSL Draft on January 12 in Los Angeles, California.
 
Season tickets for the North Carolina Courage are currently on sale. Priority seating will be given to North Carolina FC Season Ticket Members, Flex Members and individual membership holders. Please contact the North Carolina Football Club box office at 919-459-8144 to secure your spot.
 
About the NWSL
The National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) is a ten-team Division-I women’s professional soccer league featuring national team players from around the world. The clubs are the Boston Breakers, Chicago Red Stars, Houston Dash, FC Kansas City, North Carolina Courage, Orlando Pride, Portland Thorns FC, Seattle Reign FC, Sky Blue FC, and the Washington Spirit. Based in Chicago, the NWSL is supported by the Canadian Soccer Association and the United States Soccer Federation. For more information about the NWSL, log on to the league’s official website at www.NWSLsoccer.com.
 
About North Carolina Courage
The North Carolina Courage is a professional women’s soccer team that plays in the NWSL. NC Courage, the reigning NWSL champion, plays their home games at WakeMed Soccer Park in Cary, NC. For more information, please visit www.NCCourage.com or follow them on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
 
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 (NASL) and North Carolina Courage (NWSL). 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.

###

Cary, NC (January 9, 2017)- North Carolina Football Club announced today it has entered into an agreement to acquire the rights to the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) 2016 Champion Western New York Flash. The club will be renamed North Carolina Courage (also referred to as NC Courage) and will play at WakeMed Soccer Park in the 2017 NWSL season.
 
“We are excited to be able to bring the highest level of professional women’s soccer back to the Triangle,” said North Carolina Football Club Owner, Steve Malik. “This is an important step in the plan we set forth last month, and as we continue to develop, we look forward to the continued support of our community. I would like to thank the Sahlen family for giving us the opportunity to enter into this agreement to acquire the Western New York Flash and look forward to a long and rewarding partnership as we continue to grow the women’s game in North Carolina and the nation.”
 
The North Carolina Courage crest is a nod to the history of women’s professional soccer in North Carolina, incorporating a stylized lion, a major component of the old Carolina Courage logo, while retaining the brand identity of the club’s parent organization with the signature North Carolina Football Club star and the separated triangle. Additionally, the colors mirror those of the men’s side, uniting the two teams under the North Carolina Football Club umbrella, while maintaining their individual identity.
 
Malik announced his intent to secure the awarding of an NWSL team to the Triangle within three to six months, on December 6, 2016, and this acquisition has achieved that objective in only one month’s time. As part of the deal, the players under contract will remain on the 2017 NC Courage roster. Click here for the full roster.
 
Founded by the Sahlen family in 2008 as the Buffalo Flash in the USL W-League, the North Carolina Courage (former WNY Flash) is one of the most decorated women’s professional soccer teams, winning four championships in three different leagues. Most recently, the club won the 2016 NWSL Championship on October 9 by defeating the Washington Spirit in penalty kicks.
 
Led by team captain and New Zealand international Abby Erceg, the club’s roster includes U.S. Women’s National Team midfielder Sam Mewis, Canadian goalkeeper Sabrina D’Angelo and 2016 NWSL Golden Boot Winner and MVP Lynn Williams. Mewis, Williams and fellow teammate Jessica McDonald each earned caps with the USWNT in 2016. The three players listed, along with Taylor Smith and Jaelene Hinkle, have been recently called into the upcoming USWNT training camp set to begin on January 13, 2017.
 
“Welcoming Steve Malik and the entire North Carolina Football Club organization represents a significant milestone in the history of our league,” NWSL Commissioner Jeff Plush said.  “There is no question that Steve and his leadership team are well-positioned to manage the opportunities ahead of them by acquiring the WNY Flash and relaunching the club in North Carolina.  Specifically, the Triangle has long had a spectacular reputation for its wonderful fans and deep roots in the game, from major youth clubs to excellent college programs. In addition, WakeMed Soccer Park provides a world-class facility that will serve the league, the team and its fans very well.”    
 
The State of North Carolina has always been a leader in women’s soccer. It has produced several legends including Mia Hamm, Kristine Lilly, Heather O’Reilly, Charmaine Hooper and Carla Overbeck, and UNC women’s coaching legend Anson Dorrance. The Triangle was the home of WUSA’s 2002 Founders Cup Champion Carolina Courage for three seasons before the league folded the following year.
 
North Carolina is also home to the most dominant college soccer program in history, the 22-time NCAA National Champion UNC Tar Heels. Four teams from the state participated in the 2016 Women’s College Cup including UNC-Charlotte, NC State (Third Round), Duke (Quarterfinals), and UNC-Chapel Hill (Semifinals). 
 
The North Carolina Courage will be participating in the upcoming 2017 NWSL Draft on January 12 in Los Angeles, California.
 
Season tickets for the North Carolina Courage are currently on sale. Priority seating will be given to North Carolina FC Season Ticket Members, Flex Members and individual membership holders. Please contact the North Carolina Football Club box office at 919-459-8144 to secure your spot.
 
About the NWSL
The National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) is a ten-team Division-I women’s professional soccer league featuring national team players from around the world. The clubs are the Boston Breakers, Chicago Red Stars, Houston Dash, FC Kansas City, North Carolina Courage, Orlando Pride, Portland Thorns FC, Seattle Reign FC, Sky Blue FC, and the Washington Spirit. Based in Chicago, the NWSL is supported by the Canadian Soccer Association and the United States Soccer Federation. For more information about the NWSL, log on to the league’s official website at www.NWSLsoccer.com.
 
About North Carolina Courage
The North Carolina Courage is a professional women’s soccer team that plays in the NWSL. NC Courage, the reigning NWSL champion, plays their home games at WakeMed Soccer Park in Cary, NC. For more information, please visit www.NCCourage.com or follow them on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
 
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 (NASL) and North Carolina Courage (NWSL). 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.

###