USL-1 North Carolina FC

Carolina RailHawks Make Major Offseason Changes

Published on October 7, 2008 under USL First Division (USL-1)
North Carolina FC News Release


Cary, NC (Monday, October 6, 2008) - The ownership group of Triangle Professional Sports, LLC has purchased the remainder of Chris Economides' ownership and Economides will no longer serve as president and general manager of the RailHawks. In addition, the ownership group and two-year head coach Scott Schweitzer have agreed to part ways. The ownership group also indicated they will be making an announcement soon about new investors for the 2008 and 2009 campaigns.

Economides was instrumental in bringing the Carolina RailHawks franchise to the Triangle and built the foundation for professional soccer in the area. Economides moved to the area from Rochester in 2006 to start the new USL-1 franchise. He brought a wealth of knowledge and expertise as well as important exhibition matches such as the USA - Jamaica match in 2006 and the USA Women - Australia match in 2008 for all Triangle soccer fans to enjoy.

"It is because of Chris Economides that the RailHawks exist," said RailHawks Owner Brian Wellman. "His three years of devoted work have positioned the RailHawks for continued success on and off of the field. The RailHawks will miss Chris and his dedicated work ethic and wish him continued success wherever he lands."

"It is an amicable parting of the ways," Economides said. "I look forward to pursuing high level opportunities and I feel good about leaving the Carolina RailHawks in good hands moving forward. This community has been remarkably kind to me and I thank them for allowing me to bring professional soccer back to the Triangle."

Schweitzer, a former North Carolina State All-American and United Soccer Leagues' all-star defender, finished his two-year RailHawks stint with a 24-24-24 record. Schweitzer, who was hired by Economides, led the RailHawks to the semifinals of the 2007 U.S. Open Cup and a spot in the 2007 United Soccer Leagues Division I playoffs. The RailHawks did not qualify for the 2008 playoffs and lost in the fourth round of the 2008 U.S. Open Cup.

"Scotty Schweitzer will go down as one of the greatest players to ever play in the United Soccer Leagues," Wellman said. "His dedication and passion as a player was just as evident as a coach. We are grateful to Scotty for all he gave to the organization and wish him well in his future endeavors."

"I enjoyed my two years with the RailHawks and I am proud of what we built on the field," said Schweitzer, who will continue in his role with the Next Level Soccer Academy. "There was simply a difference of opinion between myself and the ownership group. I wish all of the players that gave everything to me and the organization all the best."

The RailHawks will be making another major announcement soon as it pertains to its newest business partner, and their direction, in the coming weeks.

The RailHawks continue to be active in this off-season with work in the community by visiting schools and stressing the importance of staying fit and healthy. The RailHawks 2009 season ticket drive is underway and for the occasion the RailHawks are offering an all-inclusive season ticket package that includes all pre-season, exhibition, regular season, US Open Cup and playoff matches for one low price. For more information call the LGFCU Box Office at 919-859-KICK (5425) or visit www.carolinarailhawks.com

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USL First Division Stories from October 7, 2008


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