Hammerheads Announce MLS Affiliation
February 4, 2016 - United Soccer League Championship (USL)
Wilmington Hammerheads FC News Release
Wilmington, NC - Wilmington Hammerheads FC announced today that they have extended an exclusive affiliate partnership with New York City FC of Major League Soccer.
After a successful partnership last season both clubs agreed to sign on for another year. The one-year affiliation agreement focuses primarily on the development of players and providing them with a professional playing environment while also working together on rosters to maximize results for both sides.
One player who benefited from this partnership last season was Andre Rawls. Rawls was selected in the 3rd round of the MLS SuperDraft by NYCFC but wound up signing with the Hammerheads. Last season Rawls started 22 games for the club, had three shutouts and 89 saves, which was second most in the USL.
"We are extremely excited about entering our second year of the affiliation with NYCFC," said Wilmington Hammerheads FC General Manager Jason Arnold. "Both clubs have been very busy in the off-season and have a lot to look forward to in 2016. To be affiliated with NYCFC and their entire structure gives us great pride and we are pleased to continue our affiliation."
"It is fantastic news to be affiliated with a club of NYCFC stature," said Wilmington Hammerheads FC Head Coach Mark Briggs. "We are excited to work with Patrick Vierra and Claudio Reyna and for both clubs to have successful seasons."
The affiliation agreement also opens communication and shared resources off the field between each club's front office and technical staff.
NYCFC was announced publicly as MLS's twentieth franchise in May 2013, in a partnership between the New York Yankees and City Football Group [Manchester City] as the majority owner. They are the first MLS club whose home will be located within the five boroughs of New York and are scheduled to play all home matches at the iconic Yankee Stadium.
"We're excited to extend our relationship with Wilmington Hammerheads for 2016," said NYCFC Sporting Director Claudio Reyna. "Our coaching departments will work together on team development and we're looking forward to the collaboration and sharing ideas."
For more information regarding Wilmington Hammerheads FC or to purchase season tickets, please contact (910)777-2111 or visit www.wilmingtonhammerheads.com.
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