Independence Signs Clemson Alum, DC United Draftee Paul Clowes

Published on June 1, 2016 under United Soccer League Championship (USL)
Charlotte Independence News Release

CHARLOTTE, NC - The Charlotte Independence today announced the signing of former Clemson University and MLS D.C. United midfielder Paul Clowes. He is the 14th new player to reach agreement with the Independence for 2016, and brings the current roster to 21 contracted players (not including those on loan from the Colorado Rapids).

Clowes originally was selected 32nd overall by D.C. United in the 2016 MLS SuperDraft. He signed a professional contract with DCU following preseason, and was loaned to USL affiliate the Richmond Kickers. Clowes made one appearance, playing 24 minutes in the Kickers' 3-1 victory over the Harrisburg City Islanders on March 26. DCU waived the midfielder on May 11 to make room for the signing of Alhaji Kamara.

"Paul is a player we have scouted over the last couple of years, as he played at Clemson, and had our eye on at the beginning of preseason," said Independence Head Coach Mike Jeffries. "In addition to strong technical qualities, Paul possesses great leadership and competitiveness, both of which helped Clemson to its success over the past couple of years."

A four-year standout at Clemson University, Clowes appeared in 85 career games for the Tigers, making 81 starts, recording four goals and adding 10 assists. He was named 2015 ACC Midfielder of the Year and captained Clemson to the NCAA College Cup Championship Game, where the Tigers ultimately lost to Stanford. In addition, Clowes was named a MAC Hermann Semifinalist, NSCAA Second Team All-America, NSCAA First Team All-South Region and First Team All-ACC.

While in college, Clowes played two seasons, 2013-14, in the PDL with Orlando City U-23. He made 17 appearances and scored two goals. Clowes now joins fellow Clemson alums Cody Mizell and Jack Metcalf in Charlotte.

A native of Cheshire, UK, Clowes joined the Manchester City F.C. Reserves and Academy at the age of six. He worked his way up the Academy where he became a club apprentice in 2010, playing for the Manchester City Youth team. While an apprentice, Clowes played for the U-21 team in the English Premier Reserve League. Additionally, the midfielder played in the NextGen Series and the Youth Cup, against some of the top European academies.

Clowes is now eligible to play in the Independence's next match, a Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup Third Round road contest against the NASL's Carolina RailHawks on Wednesday, June 1. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30pm at Wake Med Soccer Park in Cary, NC. The match will be available via livestream at www.carolinarailhawks.com. The Independence will return to USL action on Saturday, June 4, with a home game against Toronto FC II. Kickoff at Ramblewood stadium is scheduled for 7:00pm ET.

Charlotte Independence Signee, Clemson Alum, DC United Draftee Paul Clowes with Clemson (Clemson Athletics)

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