Eagles Preseason Begins
March 7, 2011 - United Soccer League Championship (USL)
Charlotte Eagles News Release
Charlotte, NC - On a sunny, windy morning the Charlotte Eagles kicked off their 2011 preseason with a morning practice consisting of drills, testing and scrimmage play.
With the majority of the roster fixed, the overall sentiment of the Eagles coaching staff is positive and confident though they have their work cut out for this season's USL PRO competition.
Currently, sixteen players are expected to return for the 2011 season. Chad Smith, a three year veteran is eager to start the season. Smith comments, "No more off season pick-up games, it's time to get pre-season going!"
Eagles General Manager Tom Engstrom states, "There is a lot of skill and potential on the field today. We are still looking for a spot or two to round out the talent but overall, we have a team that is ready to compete."
The Charlotte Eagles will be led by Coach Mark Steffens making it his fifteenth season, one of the longest tenured coaches in USL history. His coaching staff comprises Steve Shak, Kevin Sephton, Patrick Daka, and newly appointed Goal Keeper Coach Ryan Souders.
As the first session came to an end Coach Steffens said that "...it was a good morning, good things are already happening on the field."
As part of preparations for the upcoming 2011 USL PRO season the Eagles will compete in six pre-season matches against local colleges as well as the RailHawks.
Games open to the public are listed below:
Charlotte Eagles vs. Davidson at Davidson College, March 16, 6:00 PM
Charlotte Eagles vs. UNCC at UNCC, March 19, 6:00 PM
Charlotte Eagles vs. RailHawks at Wake Med Park, March 23, 2:00 PM
Charlotte Eagles vs. Clemson at Clemson University, March 30, 4:00 PM
Eagles' home opener will be Saturday, April 16, 2011 against Orlando City at Charlotte Christian Stadium at 7:00 PM. Tickets are on sale now at www.CharlotteEagles.com.
United Soccer League Championship Stories from March 7, 2011
- D.C. United and Chicago Fire Both Victorious in Carolina Challenge Academy Cup - Charleston Battery
- Hammerheads Sign Two Former Players - Wilmington Hammerheads FC
- Eagles Preseason Begins - Charlotte Eagles
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