USL Charlotte Independence

Charlotte Native Austin Yearwood Signs with Independence for 2016

Published on March 31, 2016 under United Soccer League Championship (USL)
Charlotte Independence News Release


CHARLOTTE, NC - The Charlotte Independence today officially announced the signing of defender Austin Yearwood. The 21 year old is a Charlotte native, having graduated from South Mecklenburg High School and trained with Charlotte Soccer Academy. He is the 10th new player to reach agreement with the Independence for 2016, and brings the current roster to 19 contracted players.

Yearwood is a 2015 graduate of High Point University, who also spent last season with the Charlotte Eagles of the Premier Development League. While at High Point, Yearwood was a three-time All-Big South selection, earning First Team honors in 2015, as well as Second Team honors in 2013 and 2014. Yearwood in 77 collegiate games, including 74 starts, contributed one goal and 17 assists from his outside back position. He was part of a defense in 2015 that notched eight shutouts and set a High Point Division I single-season record for goals against average.

"We are always looking to sign the top local players, so signing Austin is a coup for us," said Independence Head Coach Mike Jeffries. "Austin provides us a left-footed option at either center back or outside back. His athleticism, tenacity and concentration provide a good defensive option. His technical ability fits with the group - he finds the right option playing out of the back and has the ability to get forward."

Growing up in Charlotte, Yearwood was a one-year letter winner at Myers Park High School before transferring to South Mecklenburg, where he was a two-year letter winner. In two years at South Meck, the defender tallied 14 goals and 35 assists. Yearwood was a 2011 NCSCA All-State Selection, three-time All-Region Selection (2009-11) and three-time All Conference Selection (2009-11). He played club soccer with the Charlotte Soccer Academy of the US Soccer Development Academy and took part in the U.S. U-17 National Team Residency Camp in 2009.

The Independence's (0-1-0) next home game is Saturday, April 2, against the Harrisburg City Islanders (0-1-0). Kickoff is set for 7:00pm ET at Ramblewood Soccer Complex. Tickets are available at www.charlotteindependence.com/tickets or by calling 704-206-1515.

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