News

Jacks Brigade Set To Ride Into American Legion Memorial Stadium

March 5, 2021 (CHARLOTTE, N.C.) — The Charlotte Independence today announced the formation and launching of a new members' rewards club, Jack’s Brigade for season ticket holders and others.

As the USL Championship side gets ready to embark on its seventh season of competition, Jack’s Brigade invites Independence supporters as well as people new to the game, to join the Brigade at the brand-new American Legion Memorial Stadium in support of the club on and off the field.

Team officials have loaded Jack’s Brigade memberships with tremendous values, unforgettable experiences and members-only benefits at the new stadium and at various corporate partners’ locations.

“Going into a new season – with a brand new stadium – it’s a great opportunity for our fans,” said Independence President and COO Tim Schuldt. “Jack’s Brigade will welcome all soccer fans. From diehard supporters to people just learning about our incredible game.”

Jack’s Brigade is free to season ticket holders who purchase seats in the Members Club Seats, VIP Overlook Seats, and On-Field VIP Seats. Fans who choose not to purchase a full-season ticket in these areas are still able to join Jack’s Brigade and enjoy all the benefits the team has packed into the memberships.

“We recently conducted a significant fan research project with the league, and that has helped guide us as we’ve built the foundation for Jack’s Brigade,” explained Schuldt. “It’s our intent for this to evolve into a fan-led and managed members club, with the team coming alongside to support the Brigade and provide exceptional benefits, experiences, and members-only values.”

Jack’s Brigade Member Benefits:

Priority Seating at American Legion Memorial Stadium.
$80 of Independence and Jack’s Brigade merchandise.
Save 10% on souvenirs at home matches.
Invites to 16 pre-game tailgate parties hosted by NoDa Brewing Co., Birdsong Brewing Co. and Devil’s Logic Brewing Co.
Invites to post-game parties and player meet-and-greet experiences.
Invites to away game watch parties at local pubs and eateries.
Special offers and FREE offers from the team’s corporate partners.

March 5, 2021 (CHARLOTTE, N.C.) — The Charlotte Independence today announced the formation and launching of a new members’ rewards club, Jack’s Brigade for season ticket holders and others.

Team officials have loaded Jack’s Brigade memberships with tremendous values, unforgettable experiences and members-only benefits at the new stadium and at various corporate partners’ locations.

Jack’s Brigade Member Benefits:

Priority Seating at American Legion Memorial Stadium.
$80 of Independence and Jack’s Brigade merchandise.
Save 10% on souvenirs at home matches.
Invites to 16 pre-game tailgate parties hosted by NoDa Brewing Co., Birdsong Brewing Co. and Devil’s Logic Brewing Co.
Invites to post-game parties and player meet-and-greet experiences.
Invites to away game watch parties at local pubs and eateries.
Special offers and FREE offers from the team’s corporate partners.

Brigade members will also be invited to participate with the team in numerous community service initiatives throughout the year. For a complete look at all the benefits one receives with their Jack’s Brigade membership, click HERE.

“We’d like to thank all the Independence fans that stuck with us through all the challenges of 2020,” added Schuldt. “We couldn’t be more excited to have a fresh start in 2021 and welcome our fans to Jack’s Brigade and to our new home, American Legion Memorial Stadium.”

Fans can purchase tickets and Jack’s Brigade memberships by visiting the team’s website at https://www.charlotteindependence.com.

ABOUT CHARLOTTE INDEPENDENCE: The Charlotte Independence professional soccer team joined the United Soccer League (USL) Championship as an expansion team in September 2014. An ownership group led by Jim McPhilliamy, the President & Managing Partner of Major League Lacrosse’s Charlotte Hounds, acquired the USL franchise rights from the Charlotte Eagles. McPhilliamy and his investment group founded Queen City Sports Club with the goal of making Charlotte a better place to live through annual increases in both the quality and quantity of events that are provided for the community.

In the fall of 2018, Queen City Sports Club and the Charlotte Independence signed a 10-year lease to move to American Legion Memorial Stadium following a revitalization of the historic landmark set for the spring of 2021. The Independence is focused on building the profile of the club through culture, community and performance as the team moves to American Legion Memorial Stadium. For details on 2021 Season Memberships, visit https://www.charlotteindependence.com or email tix@queencitysc.com.

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Charlotte Independence Announce Tailgating Coming to American Legion Memorial Stadium

March 4, 2021 (CHARLOTTE, N.C.) — The Charlotte Independence announced today that pre-match, outdoor tailgating will be allowed for home games during the 2021 USL Championship season.

The club has worked with Mecklenburg County to allow fans to come early and set-up their tailgating experiences, in parking lots adjacent to the north side of the stadium. The conveniently located lot is just a very short walking distance from the main entrances to the all-new American Legion Memorial Stadium.

“Our fans have wanted this tailgating experience for quite some time,” stated Independence President and COO Tim Schuldt. “We’re excited to be able to deliver this experience that adds to the matchday excitement but also brings the opportunity to build new friendships and relationships with other Independence soccer fans in our community. We thank the Mecklenburg County officials for helping us deliver a tremendous experience."

Fans will be able to reserve numbered and assigned spots to ensure a great experience when they arrive. Tailgating spots will be sold on a season basis until the week of the first match, at which time any remaining spots will be placed on sale, on a per-game basis. Season reservations will be $15 per game and individual game reservations will be $20.

The Independence will also be programming the lots for Jack’s Brigade members with player appearances, tailgating games, and other activities to add to all the fun and excitement surrounding the inaugural season at American Legion Memorial Stadium.

Season-long reservations are now being accepted and can be placed HERE. More information on Independence’s tailgating experience and Mecklenburg County guidelines can be found at www.www.charlotteindependence.com/tailgating.

March 4, 2021 (CHARLOTTE, N.C.) — The Charlotte Independence announced today that pre-match, outdoor tailgating will be allowed for home games during the 2021 USL Championship season.

The Independence will make the 2021 campaign its first season at the brand new American Legion Memorial Stadium. The $40 million entire rebuild of the historic venue which began last September is close to completion and is set to open a new chapter for the Jacks.

Located in Uptown Charlotte, the new venue will have a capacity of 10,500 including standing area, and the type of amenities that have become standard at new venues across the Championship in recent years. Among them, a first for the Independence, will be a full video scoreboard and views of the surrounding city skyline that will make for a memorable experience on game-nights and at other events.

Season tickets will go on sale in select seating areas on March 12 at https://www.charlotteindependence.com.

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Independence Complete Loan Deal For Midfielder Marcelo Palomino

March 3, 2021 (CHARLOTTE, N.C.) — Charlotte Independence announced today the acquisition of midfielder Marcelo Palomino on a season-long loan from Houston Dynamo FC, pending league and federation approval.

“We are really excited to have a top, young talent in Marcelo join us for the season,” said Charlotte Independence General Manager and Head Coach Mike Jeffries. “His abilities will mesh well with our style of play and I expect him to be a solid contributor in our attack. I greatly appreciate the efforts Tab Ramos and Matt Jordan made to make this loan happen and for showing the confidence they have in the Independence.”

Palomino, 19, began his professional career with Houston Dynamo FC where he signed a Homegrown Player contract on Jan. 6, 2020. After earning Dynamo Academy Player of the Year honors three times from 2014-2018, Palomino made his professional debut on Oct. 14, 2020 as a second-half substitute against Sporting Kansas City. The midfielder earned three appearances in his rookie season.

Prior to signing a Homegrown Player contract, the Houston native was selected by current Dynamo head coach Tab Ramos to the U-18 U.S. Men’s National Team in 2018 and won the International Youth Tournament of Vaclav Jezek after a penalty shootout. The Dynamo Academy product, who was a regular in the youth national team pool for the U-15-U-19 squads after earning his first invitation to camp in 2014, spent two seasons with Houston's USL League Two affiliate Brazos Valley Cavalry. He scored seven goals in eight appearances with the League Two side, helping them to the Mid-South Division title in 2018.

“I’m thankful to the Charlotte Independence staff and the entire club for the opportunity,” said Palomino. “I can’t wait to get started and earn meaningful minutes this season. I’ve heard great things about the Queen City and I look forward to being there soon. I know that everyone wants to accomplish big goals with the club this season and I'm excited to do my part on the field.”

Palomino joins Jake Areman, Clay Dimick, Junior Etou, Enzo Martinez, Brandon Miller, Hugh Roberts, and Valentin Sabella (currently loaned to Cancun FC) on the list of players confirmed for the 2021 season, as the club continues to negotiate with additional players.

Prior to signing a Homegrown Player contract, the Houston native was selected by current Dynamo head coach Tab Ramos to the U-18 U.S. Men’s National Team in 2018 and won the International Youth Tournament of Vaclav Jezek after a penalty shootout. The Dynamo Academy product, who was a regular in the youth national team pool for the U-15-U-19 squads after earning his first invitation to camp in 2014, spent two seasons with Houston’s USL League Two affiliate Brazos Valley Cavalry. He scored seven goals in eight appearances with the League Two side, helping them to the Mid-South Division title in 2018.

PLAYER PROFILE

Name: Marcelo Palomino

Position: Midfielder

Birthdate: May 21, 2001 (age: 19)

Birthplace: Houston, TX

Height: 5-5

PLAYER PROFILE

Name: Marcelo Palomino

Position: Midfielder

Birthdate: May 21, 2001 (age: 19)

Birthplace: Houston, TX

Height: 5-5

CURRENT 2021 CHARLOTTE INDEPENDENCE ROSTER

Goalkeeper – Brandon Miller

Defender – Clay Dimick, Hugh Roberts

Midfielder – Jake Areman, Junior Etou, Enzo Martinez, Marcelo Palomino, Valentin Sabella

Forward –

CURRENT 2021 CHARLOTTE INDEPENDENCE ROSTER

Goalkeeper – Brandon Miller

Defender – Clay Dimick, Hugh Roberts

Midfielder – Jake Areman, Junior Etou, Enzo Martinez, Marcelo Palomino, Valentin Sabella

Forward –

Season tickets will go on sale in select seating areas on March 12 at https://www.charlotteindependence.com.

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USL Championship Unveils 2021 League Alignment

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Charlotte Independence will compete in the Atlantic Division alongside Charleston Battery, Hartford Athletic, Loudoun United FC, Miami FC, New York Red Bulls II, Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC, and Tampa Bay Rowdies for the 2021 USL Championship season, the league announced today.

The league will feature 31 teams across four divisions and two conferences in the upcoming season, with the clubs set to embark on a 32-game regular-season schedule that will be conducted over 27 weeks.

As previously announced, the Championship’s regular season will begin on or about May 1st, while employing a flexible start date that allows clubs to begin play anywhere between April 24th and May 15th.

The four divisions are aligned across the country producing the Atlantic, Central, Mountain and Pacific Divisions. The Atlantic and Central Division will make up the Eastern Conference, while the Mountain and Pacific Divisions will make up the Western Conference.

Eastern Conference
Atlantic Division
Charleston Battery
Charlotte Independence
Hartford Athletic
Loudoun United FC
Miami FC
New York Red Bulls II
Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC
Tampa Bay Rowdies

During the regular season, each team will play its division opponents four times – twice home, twice away. In the Atlantic, Central and Pacific Divisions, the four remaining games will be played against regional or cross-conference opponents. In the Mountain Division, the remaining eight games will be played against regional or cross-conference opponents.

Season tickets will go on sale in select seating areas on March 12 at https://www.charlotteindependence.com.

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Independence Announces Season Ticket Options and Pricing for American Legion Memorial Stadium

February 26, 2021 (CHARLOTTE, N.C.) — The Charlotte Independence today announced season ticket options and pricing for the 2021 USL Championship season, the club’s first campaign at the brand new American Legion Memorial Stadium.

Independence fans can choose from ten different seating experiences. With 1,600 seats available on the north and south sides of the stadium, Club Members Mid-Field Reserved Seats feature molded flip-down stadium seats with full back support and cup holders. Season tickets purchased in the Club Members Mid-Field Reserved sections include a free Jack’s Brigade membership. South Club Members Mid-Field Reserved season tickets are $28 per game and North Club season tickets are $24 per game.

Premium Sideline Reserved tickets feature reserved bench style seating with full back support and are offered at just $16 per game on the North side and just $20 per game on the South side. A Supporters Group Area season ticket, in a general admission environment located directly behind the East Goal, is the most affordable ticket in the stadium at just $7 per game.

Keeping it family friendly, the Jacks will be offering a family area season ticket for just $15 per game for adults and $10 for kids ten and under.

For fans looking for a little extra VIP service and a little more comfort, there are two new experiences available. Purchase of VIP Overlook Seats and VIP Field Level Reserved Seats comes with field-level access, a catered meal, and in-seat waiter service for $75 per game. A season ticket purchase in these areas also comes with the benefits of in-seat beverage service and a free Jack’s Brigade membership. Due to limited availability, fans are encouraged to move quickly to ensure the chance to secure these seating options.

With affordability and accessibility principles in mind, season ticket members can look forward to the following benefits:

· Season tickets come with up to 40% savings.

· Approximately 80% of the tickets, when purchased as a season ticket, are $20 or less per game.

· Approximately 50% of the single game tickets, if purchased in advance of game day, are $20 or less per seat.

· Supporters Group tickets are $7 as a season ticket and $12 for a single game.

· A FREE Jack’s Brigade membership, equal to $80 in value, comes with the purchase of season tickets in select areas. The Independence will be announcing the full plans for Jack’s Brigade in the near future.

“We want to keep Independence soccer affordable and accessible to all soccer fans,” said Tim Schuldt President & COO for the Independence. “Coming off a playoff season and going to a brand-new stadium, many teams would see this as an opportunity to increase ticket prices. We just felt if we’re going to be a community focused team, we shouldn’t do that. We have worked diligently to provide a great variety of experiences and a price-point for every wallet.”

Located in Uptown Charlotte, the new venue is set to have a capacity of 10,500 including standing area, and the type of amenities that have become standard at new venues across the Championship in recent years. Among them, a first for the Independence, will be a full video scoreboard and views of the surrounding city skyline that will make for a memorable experience on game-nights and at other events.

The $40 million entire rebuild of the historic venue which began last September is close to completion and is set to open a new chapter for the Jacks with the 2021 USL Championship regular season confirmed to begin on or about May 1. The regular season will see the Championship teams split in to four divisions and will contain a 32-game slate running across 27 weeks through the end of October with playoffs scheduled for November.

Season tickets will go on sale in select seating areas on March 12 at https://www.charlotteindependence.com.

Keeping it family friendly, the Jacks will be offering a family area season ticket for just $15 per game for adults and $10 for kids ten and under.

With affordability and accessibility principles in mind, season ticket members can look forward to the following benefits:

· Season tickets come with up to 40% savings.

· Approximately 80% of the tickets, when purchased as a season ticket, are $20 or less per game.

· Approximately 50% of the single game tickets, if purchased in advance of game day, are $20 or less per seat.

· Supporters Group tickets are $7 as a season ticket and $12 for a single game.

Season tickets will go on sale in select seating areas on March 12 at https://www.charlotteindependence.com.

Charlotte Independence Partners with Next Levels LLC for Merchandise Sales at New Stadium

February 24, 2021 (CHARLOTTE, N.C.) — The Charlotte Independence and Next Levels LLC have announced a new partnership designating the product/service company as the official event merchandise company of the Independence.

Through this partnership with the Independence, Next Levels LLC will be able to create unique apparel, headwear, souvenirs, tailgating items, and sporting events items using the Jacks’ trademarks and logos. Next Levels LLC will be offering fans apparel with the club’s official competition apparel company, Adidas. This will include a line of themed and original design t-shirts and hoodies. As part of the agreement, Next Levels LLC also will help the club build sales promotions for key holidays, seasons, and gift-giving occasions.

“We’re excited to partner with Matt White and Next Levels to bring our fans great Adidas apparel and souvenirs so they can show their passion for the Independence,” stated club President and COO Tim Schuldt. “We also are thrilled that we could keep this business local and expand our commitment to Black-owned businesses in Charlotte.”

“I’m excited to bring some really cool merchandise to the fans," said Matt White Owner & CEO of Next Levels. “Next Levels wants to get the assist when it comes to equipping the fans while they show their passion at the games, at home, at work, everywhere. I also appreciate the opportunity that the Independence has provided me to grow our business. They’ve been terrific to work with and we look forward to growing with them for years to come.”

With the 2021 USL Championship regular season set to begin on or about May 1, the Independence will make the 2021 campaign its first season at the brand new American Legion Memorial Stadium. The regular season will see the Championship teams split in to four divisions and will contain a 32-game slate running across 27 weeks through the end of October, with playoffs scheduled for November. Season deposits for the Independence’s inaugural season at American Legion Memorial Stadium are available here.

For more information on where to purchase Next Levels LLC, please visit nextlevelsllc.com.

“I’m excited to bring some really cool merchandise to the fans,” said Matt White Owner & CEO of Next Levels. “Next Levels wants to get the assist when it comes to equipping the fans while they show their passion at the games, at home, at work, everywhere. I also appreciate the opportunity that the Independence has provided me to grow our business. They’ve been terrific to work with and we look forward to growing with them for years to come.”

For more information on where to purchase Next Levels LLC, please visit nextlevelsllc.com.

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ABOUT NEXT LEVELS LLC: Next Levels is a minority owned, full-service advertising specialties company offering a wide range of print and apparel to assist in branding your company. We help you find a cost-effective way to market and promote your business with custom print and promotional items that speak to your clients. With the various companies we partner with, the possibilities are only limited by your imagination. We pride ourselves in working exclusively with local businesses to reach the Next Level with branding. Our highlight is our customer service and attention to detail is our priority to ensure you receive the perfect product. Working closely with Charlotte Independence has given us the ability to offer custom stores to our clients, such as the e-commerce store we currently manage for Charlotte Independence. We look forward to growing with Charlotte Independence in the Next Levels to come. Learn more about us at www.nextlevelsllc.com.

Charlotte Independence Announces Extended Partnership With Hyatt Place

February 12, 2021 (CHARLOTTE, N.C.) — The Charlotte Independence today announced that the club is extending its partnership with Hyatt Place – Downtown Charlotte, making Hyatt Place the official hotel of the club beginning in 2021.

“The Hyatt Place – Downtown Charlotte is the perfect fit. Not only is it a terrific property with a tremendous restaurant, it’s also the closest property to our new home field, the all-new American Legion Memorial Stadium,” said Tim Schuldt President & COO for the Independence. “For out-of-town fans, having this nice of a hotel within walking distance of the stadium is going to be incredibly convenient and exquisitely comfortable.”

While the partnership will provide continual marketing assets including traditional media, digital capabilities, and direct marketing with the Jacks, Hyatt Place will make use of prominent matchday visibility at each Independence home game.

“With the new stadium and many of the opponents being a reasonable distance from Charlotte, this is a terrific opportunity for us to extend world class hospitality in our world class city,” said Boris Bunich Managing Partner with Beacon IMG, the company that manages the Hyatt Place – Downtown Charlotte. “We look forward to hosting the visiting teams and all of their fans, for what promises to be an exciting season at the new stadium.”

With the 2021 USL Championship regular season set to begin on or about May 1, the Independence will make the 2021 campaign its first season at the brand new American Legion Memorial Stadium. The regular season will see the Championship teams split in to four divisions and will contain a 32-game slate running across 27 weeks through the end of October with playoffs scheduled for November. Season deposits for the Independence’s inaugural season at American Legion Memorial Stadium are available here.

For more information, please visit https://www.hyatt.com/.

With the 2021 USL Championship regular season set to begin on or about May 1, the Independence will make the 2021 campaign its first season at the brand new American Legion Memorial Stadium. The regular season will see the Championship teams split in to four divisions and will contain a 32-game slate running across 27 weeks through the end of October with playoffs scheduled for November. Season deposits for the Independence’s inaugural season at American Legion Memorial Stadium are available here.

For more information, please visit https://www.hyatt.com/.

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Hugh Roberts Returning to Charlotte in 2021

February 10, 2021 (CHARLOTTE, N.C.) — Charlotte Independence announced today that defender Hugh Roberts has signed a new contract and will be returning to the club for the 2021 season, pending league and federation approval.

“I’m happy to be back in Charlotte,” said Roberts. “Charlotte’s been a home for me these past two years and now going into my third season with the club I feel like I have a lot of comfortability with the organization and the players returning to the team. The chemistry is definitely there, we just have to continuously build off of last season and hopefully I can help bring some championships to the city.”

Roberts, 28, first signed for the Independence on January 10, 2019. He has appeared in 47 career matches with the Jacks across all competitions, starting 46 times and playing 4,131 minutes. In 2020, the defender saw action in 17 USL Championship matches, all of which came as starts, and helped the Independence host its first home playoff match in club history.

“It’s absolutely an important signing for us,” said Independence Head Coach Mike Jeffries. “Hugh was the cornerstone of our defensive group last season and we benefited tremendously from his leadership abilities both on and off the field. He’s a player that has worked hard to get better every day and we look forward to having him lead us from the back again in 2021.”

Prior to joining the Independence, the Maryland native started 21 games for a Pittsburgh Riverhounds side in 2018 which posted a league-best 0.76 goals against average. Over his eight-year USL Championship career, Roberts has made 178 career appearances in the league, scoring nine goals. Roberts, a 2016 Defender of the Year Finalist and All-League First Team Selection, has reached the USL Championship playoffs seven times.

At the collegiate level, Roberts attended George Mason University from 2010-13 where he recorded 69 appearances, 48 starts, six goals and nine assists. During his senior campaign, he was selected to the All-Region second team. From 2012-13, Roberts played two seasons with League Two side Baltimore Bohemians logging 27 appearances and two assists.

“Moving into the new American Legion Memorial Stadium in Uptown next season is a great step for the Independence to continue to grow,” added Roberts. “I think it’s going to be a fresh start for the club, and I am excited about the opportunity to help grow the game in the city and this country as well.”

Roberts joins Jake Areman, Clay Dimick, Junior Etou, Enzo Martinez, Brandon Miller, and Valentin Sabella (currently loaned to Cancun FC) on the list of players confirmed for the 2021 season, as the club continues to negotiate with additional players.

CURRENT 2021 CHARLOTTE INDEPENDENCE ROSTER

Goalkeeper – Brandon Miller

Defender – Clay Dimick, Hugh Roberts

Midfielder – Jake Areman, Junior Etou, Enzo Martinez, Valentin Sabella

Forward –

Season deposits for Charlotte Independence’s inaugural season at the brand new American Legion Memorial Stadium are available here.

CURRENT 2021 CHARLOTTE INDEPENDENCE ROSTER

Goalkeeper – Brandon Miller

Defender – Clay Dimick, Hugh Roberts

Midfielder – Jake Areman, Junior Etou, Enzo Martinez, Valentin Sabella

Forward –

Season deposits for Charlotte Independence’s inaugural season at the brand new American Legion Memorial Stadium are available here.

PLAYER PROFILE

Name: Hugh Roberts

Position: Defender

Birthdate: September 27, 1992 (age: 28)

Birthplace: Olney, Maryland

Height: 6-4

PLAYER PROFILE

Name: Hugh Roberts

Position: Defender

Birthdate: September 27, 1992 (age: 28)

Birthplace: Olney, Maryland

Height: 6-4

Social: Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook

U.S. Soccer Announces Open Cup Schedule, Format, Contingency Plan

February 9, 2021 (CHARLOTTE, N.C.) — The U.S. Open Cup Committee announced on Tuesday approval of the schedule, format, and a contingency plan for the upcoming edition of the tournament.

Read on below for the full press release from U.S. Soccer…

February 9, 2021 (CHARLOTTE, N.C.) — The U.S. Open Cup Committee announced on Tuesday approval of the schedule, format, and a contingency plan for the upcoming edition of the tournament.

Read on below for the full press release from U.S. Soccer…

A STATEMENT FROM THE LAMAR HUNT U.S. OPEN CUP

CHICAGO (Feb. 9, 2021) – At its meeting earlier this month, U.S. Soccer’s Open Cup Committee approved the schedule, format and a contingency plan for the 2021 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup.

U.S. Soccer’s National Championship returns to the field for its 107th edition after not crowning an annual champion in 2020 for the first time in its storied history, which dates back to the inaugural 1913-14 competition.

Competition Format Revised for 2021
The 2021 Open Cup will kick off May 4 and 5, and only be five rounds – instead of its usual eight – due to COVID-19 implications and a congested schedule later in the year. The five rounds will also take place across a much shorter timeframe of just two months, with the Open Cup Final scheduled for June 29 or 30.

“As we looked at our scheduling options, the Open Cup Committee first prioritized the health and safety of the players and decided against scheduling matches in both March and April due to the ongoing circumstances with the COVID-19 pandemic,” said U.S. Open Cup Commissioner Paul Marstaller. “We also took into consideration the extended June FIFA window and the Concacaf Gold Cup taking place through August 1, along with the semifinal and final rounds of the 2021 Concacaf Champions League being scheduled in the fall.

“In the end, we all felt a shortened version for this year was the best format, and we’re excited to have the opportunity to crown a champion after not being able to in 2020.”

Number of Participating Teams
With only five rounds in the 2021 tournament, the number of teams able to compete is reduced to 24 from 101 eligible clubs.

The necessary reduction means for the first time since 2011 that not all eligible teams from U.S. Soccer’s three professional divisions will participate.

Despite the reduction, the Open Cup will still have representation from each of the four divisions that normally compete in the tournament: Professional Division I, Division II, Division III, and the Open Division (encompassing all other affiliated teams and leagues).

The breakdown of the 24 teams from each of the four divisions is as follows:

Open Division (4)

Four of the 36 Open Division clubs invited to participate
The 36 eligible teams invited for the 2021 edition are those who would have played in the 2020 Open Cup had it not been canceled; they include the 12 survivors from the qualifying tournament held in the fall of 2019, the 2019 U.S. Adult Soccer Association National Amateur Cup champion, and qualified teams from the National Premier Soccer League and USL League Two

Division III (4)

Two of the nine eligible sides from the National Independent Soccer Association
Two of the eight eligible USL League One clubs

Division II (8)

Eight of 24 eligible USL Championship squads

Division I (8)

Eight of the 24 USA-based MLS clubs will enter at the Round of 16 on May 18-19, with each facing one of eight winners from the Opening Round.

The mechanisms to be used to determine the participating teams for the 2021 Open Cup will be announced in the coming weeks.

Contingency Plan Approved
If the COVID-19 pandemic continues to severely impact the USA into the spring, the Open Cup Committee has approved a contingency plan that allows for the cancelation of the Opening Round and a reallocation of slots for lower division teams into the Round of 16.

The Committee has identified March 29 as the deadline to determine whether conditions exist for the Opening Round to take place on May 4-5. If favorable conditions are not in place, the Committee will cancel the Opening Round and next review matters on April 19 to decide whether the Open Cup may commence with the Round of 16 on May 18-19.

If the tournament opens with the Round of 16, the allocation of eight berths for lower division teams will be as follows:

Division II – 4 slots
Division III – 2 slots (one each to NISA and USL League One)
Open Division – 2 slots

Certain Deadlines and Match Quantity Eligibility Requirements Waived for 2021 Open Cup
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic’s adverse impact to date, the Open Cup Committee approved a waiver of the deadlines and match quantity eligibility requirements listed in Section 202(a) of the Open Cup Policy for the 2021 tournament.
This waiver allows a number of clubs to participate who would have run afoul of the regulations as many Open Division teams throughout the country (including all NPSL and USL League One clubs) did not have league games in 2020.
At the same time, with several Open Division Local Qualifiers changing leagues in recent months, the Open Cup deadline for playing in these leagues was waived.
Additionally, the professional circuits have delayed announcing schedules for 2021 beyond the Jan. 31 deadline as they navigate the current environment for starting their respective competitions this spring.

ESPN+ to Broadcast Matches
As part of a four-year deal, ESPN+ will be the home for the 2021 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup, showing every match from the Opening Round through to the Final.

2021 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup Competition Schedule
March 29 Date for confirming Opening Round*

March 31 Opening Round matchups announced

April 19 Date for confirming Round of 16**

April 21 or 28 Round of 16/Quarterfinal Draw (held earlier if Opening Round is not played)

May 4-5 Opening Round (8 D-II [USLC], 4 D-III [NISA/USLL1], 4 Open Division clubs)

May 18-19 Round of 16 (8 D-I [MLS] teams vs. winners from Opening Round)

May 25-26 Quarterfinal Round

June 15-16 Semifinal Round

June 29 or 30 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup Final

* If conditions for holding Opening Round cannot be met on March 29, Opening Round will be canceled
** If conditions for holding Round of 16 cannot be met on April 19, tournament for 2021 will be canceled

A STATEMENT FROM THE LAMAR HUNT U.S. OPEN CUP

CHICAGO (Feb. 9, 2021) – At its meeting earlier this month, U.S. Soccer’s Open Cup Committee approved the schedule, format and a contingency plan for the 2021 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup.

“In the end, we all felt a shortened version for this year was the best format, and we’re excited to have the opportunity to crown a champion after not being able to in 2020.”

Number of Participating Teams
With only five rounds in the 2021 tournament, the number of teams able to compete is reduced to 24 from 101 eligible clubs.

The necessary reduction means for the first time since 2011 that not all eligible teams from U.S. Soccer’s three professional divisions will participate.

The breakdown of the 24 teams from each of the four divisions is as follows:

Open Division (4)

Four of the 36 Open Division clubs invited to participate
The 36 eligible teams invited for the 2021 edition are those who would have played in the 2020 Open Cup had it not been canceled; they include the 12 survivors from the qualifying tournament held in the fall of 2019, the 2019 U.S. Adult Soccer Association National Amateur Cup champion, and qualified teams from the National Premier Soccer League and USL League Two

Division III (4)

Two of the nine eligible sides from the National Independent Soccer Association
Two of the eight eligible USL League One clubs

Division II (8)

Eight of 24 eligible USL Championship squads

Division I (8)

Eight of the 24 USA-based MLS clubs will enter at the Round of 16 on May 18-19, with each facing one of eight winners from the Opening Round.

The mechanisms to be used to determine the participating teams for the 2021 Open Cup will be announced in the coming weeks.

If the tournament opens with the Round of 16, the allocation of eight berths for lower division teams will be as follows:

Division II – 4 slots
Division III – 2 slots (one each to NISA and USL League One)
Open Division – 2 slots

ESPN+ to Broadcast Matches
As part of a four-year deal, ESPN+ will be the home for the 2021 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup, showing every match from the Opening Round through to the Final.

2021 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup Competition Schedule
March 29 Date for confirming Opening Round*

March 31 Opening Round matchups announced

April 19 Date for confirming Round of 16**

April 21 or 28 Round of 16/Quarterfinal Draw (held earlier if Opening Round is not played)

May 4-5 Opening Round (8 D-II [USLC], 4 D-III [NISA/USLL1], 4 Open Division clubs)

May 18-19 Round of 16 (8 D-I [MLS] teams vs. winners from Opening Round)

May 25-26 Quarterfinal Round

June 15-16 Semifinal Round

June 29 or 30 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup Final

ABOUT THE LAMAR HUNT U.S. OPEN CUP: In its 108th year, the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup – U.S. Soccer's National Championship – is the only high-profile competition in American team sports where amateur sides face professionals in meaningful competition. The history-filled tournament, conducted on a single-game, knockout basis, is open to all professional and amateur teams affiliated with U.S. Soccer. Having crowned its first champion in 1914, the oldest national soccer competition in the USA was renamed in 1999 to honor American soccer pioneer Lamar Hunt.

The 2021 U.S. Open Cup winner will earn $300,000 in prize money, a berth in the 2022 Concacaf Champions League and have its name engraved on the Dewar Challenge Trophy – one of the oldest nationally-contested trophies in American team sports – now on permanent display at the National Soccer Hall of Fame in Frisco, Texas. The runner-up will earn $100,000, while the team that advances the furthest from each lower division will take home a $25,000 cash prize, provided they advance at least one round.

Atlanta United FC is the reigning Open Cup champion, having earned the club's first tournament title thanks to a 2-1 victory against Minnesota United FC on Aug. 27, 2019, in front of an Open Cup Final record 35,709 fans at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.

ABOUT THE LAMAR HUNT U.S. OPEN CUP: In its 108th year, the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup – U.S. Soccer’s National Championship – is the only high-profile competition in American team sports where amateur sides face professionals in meaningful competition. The history-filled tournament, conducted on a single-game, knockout basis, is open to all professional and amateur teams affiliated with U.S. Soccer. Having crowned its first champion in 1914, the oldest national soccer competition in the USA was renamed in 1999 to honor American soccer pioneer Lamar Hunt.

Atlanta United FC is the reigning Open Cup champion, having earned the club’s first tournament title thanks to a 2-1 victory against Minnesota United FC on Aug. 27, 2019, in front of an Open Cup Final record 35,709 fans at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.

ABOUT THE CHARLOTTE INDEPENDENCE: The Charlotte Independence professional soccer team joined the United Soccer League (USL) Championship as an expansion team in September 2014. An ownership group led by Jim McPhilliamy, the President & Managing Partner of Major League Lacrosse’s Charlotte Hounds, acquired the USL franchise rights from the Charlotte Eagles. McPhilliamy and his investment group founded Queen City Sports Club with the goal of making Charlotte a better place to live through annual increases in both the quality and quantity of events that are provided for the community.

Social: Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook

Clay Dimick Interview | 'This year can be a championship year for Charlotte'

February 4, 2021 (CHARLOTTE, N.C.) — Charlotte Independence announced this week that defender Clay Dimick has signed a new contract and will be returning to the club for the 2021 season, pending league and federation approval.

At 26, Dimick is ready to take the next step in his career and is confident that staying with the Independence will provide the opportunity to do so.

After signing a new contract, Dimick sat down with https://www.charlotteindependence.com for an exclusive interview to discuss his return.

Read our exclusive chat with Dimick below…

At 26, Dimick is ready to take the next step in his career and is confident that staying with the Independence will provide the opportunity to do so.

After signing a new contract, Dimick sat down with https://www.charlotteindependence.com for an exclusive interview to discuss his return.

Read our exclusive chat with Dimick below…

Clay, firstly, welcome back to Charlotte Independence. Can you describe how you’re feeling today?

Obviously, I'm very excited to be back. We had a good year last season and I feel like we have a lot of potential to go even further and hopefully win a championship. I was pumped to get the deal done and stay in Charlotte which is a city that feels like home to me.

Why is this the right move for you now at this stage of your career for your development?

A big part of it is playing for a coaching staff that has seen me develop over the past couple of years into a key part of the squad. Having that kind of coaching staff and continuing to work with them has allowed me to prove that I can be a key member of the team and help the team win. Having a coaching staff and team that trusts in you goes a long way.

Do you feel ready to compete and fight for a consistent place in the starting lineup?

For sure. I see myself coming in and competing, hopefully being a starter, and helping the team in any way that I can.

Describe your feeling knowing that you will be playing in the club's first season at the brand new American Legion Memorial Stadium…

That's the dream. To be able to play in the city and hopefully have more fans come out to the games because it is more convenient uptown is just going to be an awesome experience and atmosphere. As a player, you couldn't really ask for more than that, to play in the heart of the city with an incredible atmosphere. It's definitely the dream for a player in the city.

You were just married. Just re-signed with the Independence. Not a bad start to the year…

Absolutely. Definitely a good start to the new year. A lot of good things happening that I am super thankful for.

You’re sticking with the number 17. Was there any particular significance behind that?

Honestly, I was just handed it in 2019 during my rookie year and now that my friends, family, and the fans know me as number 17 I'm just going to stick with it. I like it.

You spoke earlier about working with the coaching staff, just how much are you looking forward to working with Mike Jeffries again?

I'm really looking forward to it. I've gotten comfortable with them in a way that I feel like they know how to get the most out of me as a player. They know how I need to develop and what I need to do to continue to push on to help the club and continue my career. With a coaching staff like that, I am really excited.

For the supporters reading this, what can Independence fans expect from you next season?

They can expect the same mentality from me that they have seen in the past two years. On the field, I am going to do whatever I can to win and help the team. Hopefully, they will see a lot of the improvements that I have been working on in the offseason. They can always count on me to give my all and do whatever I can to help us win games and win a championship.

Any specific message to the supporters?

I can't wait to see everyone in the stands. I hope everyone is staying healthy. This year can be a championship year for Charlotte.

Clay, firstly, welcome back to Charlotte Independence. Can you describe how you’re feeling today?

Obviously, I’m very excited to be back. We had a good year last season and I feel like we have a lot of potential to go even further and hopefully win a championship. I was pumped to get the deal done and stay in Charlotte which is a city that feels like home to me.

Why is this the right move for you now at this stage of your career for your development?

Do you feel ready to compete and fight for a consistent place in the starting lineup?

For sure. I see myself coming in and competing, hopefully being a starter, and helping the team in any way that I can.

Describe your feeling knowing that you will be playing in the club’s first season at the brand new American Legion Memorial Stadium…

That’s the dream. To be able to play in the city and hopefully have more fans come out to the games because it is more convenient uptown is just going to be an awesome experience and atmosphere. As a player, you couldn’t really ask for more than that, to play in the heart of the city with an incredible atmosphere. It’s definitely the dream for a player in the city.

You were just married. Just re-signed with the Independence. Not a bad start to the year…

Absolutely. Definitely a good start to the new year. A lot of good things happening that I am super thankful for.

You’re sticking with the number 17. Was there any particular significance behind that?

Honestly, I was just handed it in 2019 during my rookie year and now that my friends, family, and the fans know me as number 17 I’m just going to stick with it. I like it.

You spoke earlier about working with the coaching staff, just how much are you looking forward to working with Mike Jeffries again?

I’m really looking forward to it. I’ve gotten comfortable with them in a way that I feel like they know how to get the most out of me as a player. They know how I need to develop and what I need to do to continue to push on to help the club and continue my career. With a coaching staff like that, I am really excited.

For the supporters reading this, what can Independence fans expect from you next season?

Any specific message to the supporters?

I can’t wait to see everyone in the stands. I hope everyone is staying healthy. This year can be a championship year for Charlotte.

Social: Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook

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A STATEMENT FROM THE LAMAR HUNT U.S. OPEN CUP

A STATEMENT FROM THE LAMAR HUNT U.S. OPEN CUP

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