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USL Rhode Island FC

Rhode Island FC Signee Drafted in First Round of MLS SuperDraft

December 22, 2023 - United Soccer League Championship (USL)
Rhode Island FC News Release


PAWTUCKET, RI - Rhode Island FC, the Ocean State's new professional men's soccer team, is quickly assembling a competitive roster for its inaugural USL Championship season. The club announced today that it has agreed to terms with goalkeeper Jackson Lee who was drafted earlier this week in the first round of the MLS SuperDraft by Los Angeles FC. Lee is expected to be a part of the Rhode Island FC's inaugural roster in March, a signal that Rhode Island FC strives to be among the top professional soccer clubs in North America.

"We are building a team with talent to compete in a very competitive USL Championship. Jackson's selection in the MLS SuperDraft is a testament to the strength of the roster we are building. Throughout our time scouting for our inaugural team, I remained committed to building a team for all Rhode Island that our fans would be excited to watch play from our first game, and it is exciting to see this team rooted in that commitment become a reality," said Khano Smith, head coach and general manager of Rhode Island FC. "As we celebrate the holiday season, there is no better gift for our fans than watching our Rhode Island FC team continue to grow with some of the top collegiate soccer players in the country."

Lee played for two seasons at West Virginia University and covered goal for the Mountaineers during every minute of the 2023 season, setting a new university record for most goalkeeper wins. Lee recorded nine clean sheets during the 2023 season, which ranked seventh in the nation. His skill in goal earned him United Soccer Coaches All-Southeast Region Second Team and All-Sun Belt Second Team recognition.

"I knew that when Khano Smith became Head Coach of Rhode Island FC, our inaugural roster would be filled with some of the best soccer talent. Khano has scouted throughout the United States and internationally to build a team ready to compete filled with players proud to represent Rhode Island FC," said Rhode Island FC co-founder, native Rhode Islander, and former member of the U.S. Men's National Team Michael Parkhurst. "With Khano's leadership, our team is competing for talent with the top clubs in the country and players are choosing Rhode Island FC."

Lee signed a contract with Rhode Island FC prior to the MLS SuperDraft and the club retains his rights for the 2024 season. A loan or transfer could be negotiated under the rules of US Soccer.

Rhode Island FC will play its first ever USL Championship match on March 16, 2024 at Beirne Stadium at Bryant University. The club will play in a state-of-the-art stadium at Tidewater Landing in future years. The full schedule for the club's inaugural season is available here. Like all transactions in the USL Championship, Lee's signing will be finalized pending league and federation approval.

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