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MLS Charlotte FC

Charlotte FC Select Midfielder Ben Bender, Maryland with First Overall Pick in 2022 MLS SuperDraft Pres. by adidas

January 11, 2022 - Major League Soccer (MLS)
Charlotte FC News Release


CHARLOTTE, NC - Charlotte FC today drafted Ben Bender number one overall in the 2022 MLS SuperDraft presented by adidas.

The University of Maryland midfielder finished his sophomore season with seven goals and five assists in 18 appearances, leading his team to a 12-4-2 overall record. Bender was named a United Soccer Coaches First Team All-American and the Big Ten Midfielder of the Year.

Prior to the draft, Bender was one of eight elite collegiate underclassmen signed to a Generation adidas contract. Per MLS rules, these contracts are not charged against a team's annual salary budget.

As a freshman, Bender started all 11 games for the Terrapins, scoring two goals. He was named to the All-Big Ten Second Team and All-Big Ten Freshman Team.

The midfielder prepped at Calvert Hall College High School in Towson, Maryland, where he was named a 2019 Allstate All-American as a senior. He played club soccer for Baltimore Armour.

Welcome to the Queen City, Ben Bender

Transaction: Charlotte FC draft Ben Bender number one overall in the 2022 MLS SuperDraft presented by adidas

Name: Ben Bender

Position: Midfielder

Height: 6'0"

Weight: 165

Age: 20

Hometown: Baltimore, Maryland

Last Club: University of Maryland

How Acquired: Drafted first overall in 2022 MLS SuperDraft

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