CHARLOTTE N.C. (January 24, 2023) – The Charlotte Independence announced today that goalkeeper, and club veteran, Austin Pack will return to the Jacks for the 2023 season. He spent the latter half of the 2022 season with the Independence following a brief stint with USL Championship club Hartford Athletic. Pack was a key player for Charlotte in 2021 helping lead the team to a record-breaking season and the club’s first-ever playoff win.
“We are excited to have Austin return for the 2023 season. He was an integral part of the team’s success in 2021 – he brings composure, experience, and leadership to the position,” explained Charlotte Independence Head Coach, Mike Jeffries. “In addition to being an excellent shot stopper, Austin’s ability to read the game and communicate with his teammates strengthens us defensively.”
Before returning to the Independence mid-season in 2022, Pack spent six months with Hartford Athletic where he made 11 saves and earned a 1.81 goals-against average in five appearances.
Pack first joined the Independence in 2020. In 2021, he played a major role in the club’s success recording 51 saves and six clean sheets on the season.
Prior to his time in Charlotte, Pack played in the USL Championship with the Pittsburgh Riverhounds and Portland Timbers 2. He made three saves across seven appearances with the Riverhounds in 2019. With the Timbers in 2018, he made two saves across two appearances.
Pack played college soccer with the Charlotte 49ers from 2012-15. He appeared in 45 matches and made 108 saves. He helped lead the 49ers to a Conference USA Regular Season Title, a Conference USA Championship and three NCAA tournament appearances.
“I feel grateful to have the opportunity to return to the Independence and to continue pushing forward in my career,” stated Pack. “Thank you to the owners, coaches and front office who have been nothing but supportive of me since day one.”
The Charlotte Independence kick off the 2023 USL League One season against the Richmond Kickers on Saturday, March 18 at American Legion Memorial Stadium. Season tickets are on sale now at charlotteindependence.com.
