USL1 Charlotte Independence

Austin Pack Named 2023 USL League One Goalkeeper of the Year

Published on November 7, 2023 under United Soccer League One (USL1)
Charlotte Independence News Release


CHARLOTTE, N.C. - USL League One and the Charlotte Independence today announced that Austin Pack has been named the 2023 USL League One Goalkeeper of the Year. He was nominated for the award, after breaking multiple league records this season for the Jacks.

Three finalists for Goalkeeper of the Year were chosen based on a vote by the league's coaches. Pack received the most votes, winning the award.

"I am overjoyed for Austin," Head Coach Mike Jeffries expressed. "Throughout his career, he has overcome many challenges and obstacles, and for him to have the season he has had is a credit to his resilience, tenacity, and mentality. Though his performance is measured in his being at the top of the goalkeeping statistical categories, his value to the team is far greater than the numbers - winning points or keeping us from dropping points with incredible saves; providing leadership and organization to a young back line, and being a positive locker room influence."

This season, Pack shattered the USL League One record for most saves in a single season with 129. The previous record of 105 was set by Akira Fitzgerald playing for the Richmond Kickers in the 2022/23 season. Pack and Akira are the only goalkeepers in league history to eclipse 100 saves.

In the Independence's semifinal match against Union Omaha, Pack tied a league record for most saves in USL League One Playoffs history with seven stops. Pack's excellent performance to protect the clean sheet earned him the Player of the Match honor from the league.

"I'm thankful for my teammates and coaches for instilling confidence in me all year," Pack said. "I'm proud to have been able to contribute to this club. I'm also thankful for the club owners and their support."

The USL League One All-League Teams were announced last week, and Pack earned the goalkeeper slot on the All-League First Team. Teammates Joel Johnson and Omar Ciss were named to the All-League Second Team. Ciss is a finalist for the 2023 USL League One Young Player of the Year Award which will be announced later this week.

Check out the Charlotte Independence Statistics

Share: Facebook | Twitter/X | LinkedIn | Reddit | Email



United Soccer League One Stories from November 7, 2023


The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.

OurSports Central