Hammerheads Roster Continues to Increase
December 5, 2014 - United Soccer League Championship (USL)
Wilmington Hammerheads FC News Release
Wilmington, NC - Wilmington Hammerheads FC announced today the return of four players to their 2015 USL PRO regular season roster. The club has exercised options for Ashani Fairclough, Steven Miller, Brian Ackley, and Matt Glaeser to return for a second a season.
Ashani Fairclough appeared in 24 matches during the 2014 regular season, tallying one goal and one assist. The Jamaican defender was named 2014 USL PRO All League First Team, the only Hammerheads player to rank within the First or Second Team at the conclusion of the season.
"The Hammerheads organization has been very good to me and I am very happy to be returning for the 2015 season," said Fairclough. "With the way the club has been progressing on and off the field, I am very happy to show my commitment to the club and assist the organization in winning a USL PRO Championship. The fans have been absolutely brilliant and they were a huge part of our success last season. With the core of the team returning, and also with the way our team played towards the end of last season, I know that we are all excited to be back in Wilmington and cannot wait for the 2015 season to get started."
Prior to his debut with the Hammerheads, Fairclough was on trial with the New York Cosmos and spent time with Major League Soccer's Seattle Sounders in 2013; making appearances in Reserve League action.
Steven Miller was added to the club's roster during preseason after attending the team's open tryouts at Capelli Sport Center in New Jersey. The midfielder went on to appear in 26 matches during his professional debut; scoring three goals paired with three assists overall.
"I am really excited about returning to Wilmington for another season," said Miller. "I am looking forward to building on our success from last year and having an even better season this year."
Brian Ackley, a native of Raleigh, North Carolina, made his transition to the Hammerheads from a two year stint with the Carolina Railhawks of the North American Soccer League (NASL). The upcoming season will be Ackley's third year in USL PRO during his career after also playing for the Harrisburg City Islanders in 2011.
Matt Glaeser made his debut with the Hammerheads last season following time spent with NASL's Fort Lauderdale Strikers since 2011. The 6-foot, 5-inch goalkeeper also serves as a coach with Wilmington Hammerheads Youth FC during the offseason.
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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United Soccer League Championship Stories from December 5, 2014
- Louisville City FC Signs Three - Louisville City FC
- Hammerheads Roster Continues to Increase - Wilmington Hammerheads FC
- Charlotte Independence Name Mike Jeffries as First Head Coach - Charlotte Independence
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