Team Announcements

MEMPHIS, Tennessee – Memphis 901 FC has signed its first three players for its inaugural 2019 United Soccer League season, Sporting Director Andrew Bell and head coach Tim Mulqueen announced today, with midfielder Raul Gonzalez, defender Wes Charpie, and defender Josh Morton becoming the first to don the club’s crest pending league and federation approval.

Season ticket holders can meet the players, plus Bell, and Mulqueen at an exclusive USL Cup Watch Party at AutoZone Park on Thursday, Nov. 8 from 6:30-9:30 p.m. Season ticket holders will be treated to one free beer in addition to giveaways, autographs, and photo opportunities. Additional food and drinks will be available for purchase. Season tickets, which start at just $10 per match, can be purchased at www.www.memphis901fc.com/seasontickets or by calling (901) 721-6000.

“We’re very happy to welcome Raul, Wes, and Josh to our Club,” Bell said. “All three players bring unique qualities that we feel will help us as we build the squad in preparation for the start of the 2019 USL season next March. We’re also looking forward to introducing them to our supporters on Nov. 8. It’s going be another exciting night for our Club and a chance for these players to be officially welcomed to our City.”

“All three players possess multiple years of professional experience that will serve us well as we begin our initial campaign in the USL,” Mulqueen said. “They have demonstrated consistent high-level performances at the professional level, and we’re excited to welcome them to the Memphis 901 FC family.”

Gonzalez played collegiate soccer at the University of Memphis and spent the previous two seasons with the USL’s Richmond Kickers. He made 47 starts for Richmond in 2017 and 2018 and scored five goals. Before signing with Richmond, the Ocean Springs, Miss., native made 65 appearances over four seasons with Memphis and tallied 13 goals and 13 assists. Gonzalez was a two-time all-conference honoree for the Tigers, and he was named to the All-Rookie Team as a freshman in 2013. His breakout season came as a junior in 2015, when he started all 17 matches, scored a team-high seven goals, and led Memphis with 16 points.

Charpie spent the 2018 season with Jacksonville Armada FC of the National Premier Soccer League after playing in the USL for Saint Louis FC in 2017 and Toronto FC II in 2015 and 2016. He was drafted 29th overall in the 2015 Major League Soccer SuperDraft by Toronto FC and signed with its USL affiliate, making 43 appearances in two seasons with Toronto FC II. In 2017, Charpie, who hails from Tarpon Springs, Fla., joined Saint Louis FC and made 19 appearances with two assists. He enjoyed an extensive youth and college career, training with the Aston Villa and Blackburn youth teams, before earning multiple all-league honors at the University of South Florida.

Morton, who scored the first goal in AutoZone Park history for Tulsa Roughnecks FC in the Sept. 1 “Soccer Showdown” exhibition match against the Colorado Rapids of MLS, made 27 starts and 32 appearances in his only season with Tulsa. He starred at the University of California, starting nearly every match and earning honorable mention all-conference honors as a senior, which led Morton to a fourth-round pick by the Chicago Fire in the 2018 MLS SuperDraft. The Wyandotte, Mich., native then signed with Tulsa two months later to begin his professional career.

Additional signings will be announced in the coming weeks and months.

For the latest information on Memphis 901 FC, visit www.www.memphis901fc.com and follow the club on social media on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

MEMPHIS, Tennessee – Memphis 901 FC has signed its first three players for its inaugural 2019 United Soccer League season, Sporting Director Andrew Bell and head coach Tim Mulqueen announced today, with midfielder Raul Gonzalez, defender Wes Charpie, and defender Josh Morton becoming the first to don the club’s crest pending league and federation approval.

Season ticket holders can meet the players, plus Bell, and Mulqueen at an exclusive USL Cup Watch Party at AutoZone Park on Thursday, Nov. 8 from 6:30-9:30 p.m. Season ticket holders will be treated to one free beer in addition to giveaways, autographs, and photo opportunities. Additional food and drinks will be available for purchase. Season tickets, which start at just $10 per match, can be purchased at www.www.memphis901fc.com/seasontickets or by calling (901) 721-6000.

“We’re very happy to welcome Raul, Wes, and Josh to our Club,” Bell said. “All three players bring unique qualities that we feel will help us as we build the squad in preparation for the start of the 2019 USL season next March. We’re also looking forward to introducing them to our supporters on Nov. 8. It’s going be another exciting night for our Club and a chance for these players to be officially welcomed to our City.”

“All three players possess multiple years of professional experience that will serve us well as we begin our initial campaign in the USL,” Mulqueen said. “They have demonstrated consistent high-level performances at the professional level, and we’re excited to welcome them to the Memphis 901 FC family.”

Gonzalez played collegiate soccer at the University of Memphis and spent the previous two seasons with the USL’s Richmond Kickers. He made 47 starts for Richmond in 2017 and 2018 and scored five goals. Before signing with Richmond, the Ocean Springs, Miss., native made 65 appearances over four seasons with Memphis and tallied 13 goals and 13 assists. Gonzalez was a two-time all-conference honoree for the Tigers, and he was named to the All-Rookie Team as a freshman in 2013. His breakout season came as a junior in 2015, when he started all 17 matches, scored a team-high seven goals, and led Memphis with 16 points.

Charpie spent the 2018 season with Jacksonville Armada FC of the National Premier Soccer League after playing in the USL for Saint Louis FC in 2017 and Toronto FC II in 2015 and 2016. He was drafted 29th overall in the 2015 Major League Soccer SuperDraft by Toronto FC and signed with its USL affiliate, making 43 appearances in two seasons with Toronto FC II. In 2017, Charpie, who hails from Tarpon Springs, Fla., joined Saint Louis FC and made 19 appearances with two assists. He enjoyed an extensive youth and college career, training with the Aston Villa and Blackburn youth teams, before earning multiple all-league honors at the University of South Florida.

Morton, who scored the first goal in AutoZone Park history for Tulsa Roughnecks FC in the Sept. 1 “Soccer Showdown” exhibition match against the Colorado Rapids of MLS, made 27 starts and 32 appearances in his only season with Tulsa. He starred at the University of California, starting nearly every match and earning honorable mention all-conference honors as a senior, which led Morton to a fourth-round pick by the Chicago Fire in the 2018 MLS SuperDraft. The Wyandotte, Mich., native then signed with Tulsa two months later to begin his professional career.

Additional signings will be announced in the coming weeks and months.

For the latest information on Memphis 901 FC, visit www.www.memphis901fc.com and follow the club on social media on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

MEMPHIS, Tennessee – Downtown Memphis’ newest professional sports team has a distinct Bluff City flavor, as Memphis 901 FC has been illuminated as the identity of the city’s United Soccer League franchise ahead of its inaugural season of 2019.

The neon-inspired crest plays homage to Memphis’ historic Beale Street located just blocks from AutoZone Park, complete with an LP record in the center as a nod to the city’s immense music history, with a crown on top honoring the great musical “kings” of Memphis such as Elvis and B.B. The ‘901’ refers to the region’s area code and forms the foundation of the club.

“As we continue to build and diversify Trinity Sports Holdings, we are fully committed to investing in and operating professional soccer,” said Peter Freund, Principal Owner of Memphis 901 FC. “We can think of no better place to kick it all off than in the Mid-South, in a market as soulful and as passionate as Memphis, in a world-class downtown venue like AutoZone Park, and with a global ambassador such as Tim Howard.”

“Since we announced this team in January, we have constantly sought input from people in our community and the soccer world about what our team’s identity should be,” Memphis 901 FC President Craig Unger said. “All conversations led us to ‘901 FC.’ Our heart, and our uniqueness, is that we are Memphians. ‘901’ has come to define our community and is a rallying cry of our region. It quickly became clear that Memphis 901 FC was the perfect fit for the foundation of our club, which is Memphis’ club.”

The logo was created by Studio Simon.

“I was tremendously excited for Studio Simon to have the opportunity to create the identity for the city’s new USL franchise,” Dan Simon of Studio Simon said. “This identity is one that reflects the vision that the football club’s ownership and supporters share for bringing the community a sports experience that is ‘Authentically Memphis.’”

Memphis 901 FC’s reveal day culminates with tonight’s “Soccer Showdown” exhibition match between Howard and the Colorado Rapids of Major League Soccer and the USL’s Tulsa Roughnecks FC. Tonight’s match is the first in AutoZone Park history and will serve as a launching pad as the club gears up for its USL debut in March 2019.

Season tickets for Memphis 901 FC are on sale now and can be purchased at https://www.memphis901fc.com.

MEMPHIS, Tennessee – Downtown Memphis’ newest professional sports team has a distinct Bluff City flavor, as Memphis 901 FC has been illuminated as the identity of the city’s United Soccer League franchise ahead of its inaugural season of 2019.

The neon-inspired crest plays homage to Memphis’ historic Beale Street located just blocks from AutoZone Park, complete with an LP record in the center as a nod to the city’s immense music history, with a crown on top honoring the great musical “kings” of Memphis such as Elvis and B.B. The ‘901’ refers to the region’s area code and forms the foundation of the club.

“As we continue to build and diversify Trinity Sports Holdings, we are fully committed to investing in and operating professional soccer,” said Peter Freund, Principal Owner of Memphis 901 FC. “We can think of no better place to kick it all off than in the Mid-South, in a market as soulful and as passionate as Memphis, in a world-class downtown venue like AutoZone Park, and with a global ambassador such as Tim Howard.”

“Since we announced this team in January, we have constantly sought input from people in our community and the soccer world about what our team’s identity should be,” Memphis 901 FC President Craig Unger said. “All conversations led us to ‘901 FC.’ Our heart, and our uniqueness, is that we are Memphians. ‘901’ has come to define our community and is a rallying cry of our region. It quickly became clear that Memphis 901 FC was the perfect fit for the foundation of our club, which is Memphis’ club.”

The logo was created by Studio Simon.

“I was tremendously excited for Studio Simon to have the opportunity to create the identity for the city’s new USL franchise,” Dan Simon of Studio Simon said. “This identity is one that reflects the vision that the football club’s ownership and supporters share for bringing the community a sports experience that is ‘Authentically Memphis.’”

Memphis 901 FC’s reveal day culminates with tonight’s “Soccer Showdown” exhibition match between Howard and the Colorado Rapids of Major League Soccer and the USL’s Tulsa Roughnecks FC. Tonight’s match is the first in AutoZone Park history and will serve as a launching pad as the club gears up for its USL debut in March 2019.

Season tickets for Memphis 901 FC are on sale now and can be purchased at https://www.memphis901fc.com.

MEMPHIS, Tennessee – USL Memphis has named 20-plus-year coaching veteran Tim Mulqueen its first head coach in franchise history, President Craig Unger and Sporting Director Andrew Bell announced Wednesday.

Mulqueen, who brings vast expertise to The Bluff City, most recently served as assistant coach for Orlando City Soccer Club of Major League Soccer from Jan. 2017 until this summer. Mulqueen also coached in MLS with the Kansas City Wizards, now Sporting Kansas City, from 2000-04 and the New York/New Jersey MetroStars, now the New York Red Bulls, from 1996-99.

Mulqueen is scheduled to throw out a first pitch before the Memphis Redbirds game at AutoZone Park on Saturday at 6:35 p.m. Fans can meet Mulqueen by purchasing a specialty ticket package that includes a ticket to the game, a meet-and-greet from 5:30-6:30 p.m., and a complimentary beer or soda, at www.memphisredbirds.com/meetthecoach.

“I’m honored to be named the first head coach of USL Memphis,” said Mulqueen. “Memphis is a soccer town, and I’m excited to get started. This team will reflect the values of this great city. No one will work harder or play harder. Our fans, and all Memphians, will be proud to call us their own.”

“This is an exciting and important day for our team,” Bell said. “Tim’s track record speaks for itself; he’s vastly experienced and has coached at the top levels consistently for many years. His USL and MLS experience in particular will help tremendously as we begin the process of building the playing squad.”

“We’re excited to announce Tim Mulqueen as the first head coach in USL Memphis history,” Unger said. “After a thorough and extended search, we’re confident that Tim is the right choice to lead our team into its inaugural 2019 USL season.”

The ties between Mulqueen and USL Memphis advisor and soccer legend Tim Howard run deep, as Howard credits Mulqueen with getting his career started at the age of 12, when Mulqueen took notice of his immense talent and drive and welcomed Howard to train for free at his skills clinic in Metuchen, N.J.

It all came full circle when Mulqueen then coached Howard professionally with the MetroStars at the onset of his pro career, which eventually developed into one of the finest in American soccer history.

“I’ve known Coach Mulqueen my entire soccer career,” Howard explained. “His eye for talent and his ability to inspire his players and teach the game is unmatched. His work ethic and character extend far beyond the pitch. I have no doubt that the city of Memphis will rally behind him and our team.”

In addition to his MLS coaching experience, Mulqueen was the goalkeepers coach for the United States at the 2005 and 2007 FIFA U-17 World Championships, the 2008 Summer Olympics, and the 2007 and 2009 FIFA U-20 World Cups.

After graduating from St. Joseph’s University in 1988, Mulqueen played professionally in the American Premier Soccer League and United Soccer League until 1995.

Mulqueen and his wife, Kathleen, have two children, Trevor Patrick (b. 2000) and Caitlin Brett (b. 2001).

MEMPHIS, Tennessee – USL Memphis has named 20-plus-year coaching veteran Tim Mulqueen its first head coach in franchise history, President Craig Unger and Sporting Director Andrew Bell announced Wednesday.

Mulqueen, who brings vast expertise to The Bluff City, most recently served as assistant coach for Orlando City Soccer Club of Major League Soccer from Jan. 2017 until this summer. Mulqueen also coached in MLS with the Kansas City Wizards, now Sporting Kansas City, from 2000-04 and the New York/New Jersey MetroStars, now the New York Red Bulls, from 1996-99.

Mulqueen is scheduled to throw out a first pitch before the Memphis Redbirds game at AutoZone Park on Saturday at 6:35 p.m. Fans can meet Mulqueen by purchasing a specialty ticket package that includes a ticket to the game, a meet-and-greet from 5:30-6:30 p.m., and a complimentary beer or soda, at www.memphisredbirds.com/meetthecoach.

“I’m honored to be named the first head coach of USL Memphis,” said Mulqueen. “Memphis is a soccer town, and I’m excited to get started. This team will reflect the values of this great city. No one will work harder or play harder. Our fans, and all Memphians, will be proud to call us their own.”

“This is an exciting and important day for our team,” Bell said. “Tim’s track record speaks for itself; he’s vastly experienced and has coached at the top levels consistently for many years. His USL and MLS experience in particular will help tremendously as we begin the process of building the playing squad.”

“We’re excited to announce Tim Mulqueen as the first head coach in USL Memphis history,” Unger said. “After a thorough and extended search, we’re confident that Tim is the right choice to lead our team into its inaugural 2019 USL season.”

The ties between Mulqueen and USL Memphis advisor and soccer legend Tim Howard run deep, as Howard credits Mulqueen with getting his career started at the age of 12, when Mulqueen took notice of his immense talent and drive and welcomed Howard to train for free at his skills clinic in Metuchen, N.J.

It all came full circle when Mulqueen then coached Howard professionally with the MetroStars at the onset of his pro career, which eventually developed into one of the finest in American soccer history.

“I’ve known Coach Mulqueen my entire soccer career,” Howard explained. “His eye for talent and his ability to inspire his players and teach the game is unmatched. His work ethic and character extend far beyond the pitch. I have no doubt that the city of Memphis will rally behind him and our team.”

In addition to his MLS coaching experience, Mulqueen was the goalkeepers coach for the United States at the 2005 and 2007 FIFA U-17 World Championships, the 2008 Summer Olympics, and the 2007 and 2009 FIFA U-20 World Cups.

After graduating from St. Joseph’s University in 1988, Mulqueen played professionally in the American Premier Soccer League and United Soccer League until 1995.

Mulqueen and his wife, Kathleen, have two children, Trevor Patrick (b. 2000) and Caitlin Brett (b. 2001).

MEMPHIS, Tennessee – USL Memphis unveiled initial season ticket pricing starting at $170 for its inaugural 2019 season at AutoZone Park, with season ticket down payments including a ticket to the “Soccer Showdown” exhibition match on Saturday, Sept. 1 between Tim Howard and the Colorado Rapids of Major League Soccer and the United Soccer League’s Tulsa Roughnecks FC.

Initial season ticket prices reflect one full season seat for, at minimum, 17 home regular season matches, plus select U.S. Open Cup and preseason matches. To purchase season tickets, fans must select their seating area and place a 20 percent down payment.

Prices range from $170 ($34 down payment) to $500 ($100 down payment).

“We are pleased to offer such affordable season ticket prices for a brand-new professional sports team in Downtown Memphis,” USL Memphis President Craig Unger said. “It was a priority of ours all along to offer ways for families and young professionals to get in on the ground floor of this franchise in its inaugural season, and with season ticket prices starting at $10 or less per match we feel we have accomplished this. And for all season ticket holders to get a free ticket to the first soccer match in AutoZone Park history is icing on the cake.”

Based on popular demand, season tickets are currently available in the following sections:

• Club Premium (Sections 205, 207, 209, 211)
• Midfield (Sections 111, 113, 115)
• Sideline (Sections, 105, 107, 109, 117, 119)
• Supporters (108, 110, 112)

Supporters sections are general admission. Fans in these sections will be subject to excessive noise, smoke, flag-waving, drum-playing, disruption, and extreme fandom.

For each down payment placed, fans will receive one free ticket within their seating area on a best available basis for the first soccer match in AutoZone Park history, featuring Tim Howard and the Colorado Rapids against future USL Memphis opponent Tulsa Roughnecks FC on Saturday, Sept. 1.

To cement a place in Memphis soccer history, fans can place their 20 percent down payment at www.USL2Memphis.com/tickets or by calling (901) 721-6000.

Single-game tickets for the exhibition match are set to go on sale on Saturday at 10AM. USL Memphis ticket representatives will be available at (901) 721-6000 until 2PM. Tickets may also be purchased at www.USL2Memphis.com/tickets.

Follow USL Memphis on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for updates. For more information on the exhibition match and brand and logo reveal, visit www.USL2Memphis.com/soccershowdown, email tickets@usl2memphis.com, or call (901) 721-6000.

MEMPHIS, Tennessee – USL Memphis unveiled initial season ticket pricing starting at $170 for its inaugural 2019 season at AutoZone Park, with season ticket down payments including a ticket to the “Soccer Showdown” exhibition match on Saturday, Sept. 1 between Tim Howard and the Colorado Rapids of Major League Soccer and the United Soccer League’s Tulsa Roughnecks FC.

Initial season ticket prices reflect one full season seat for, at minimum, 17 home regular season matches, plus select U.S. Open Cup and preseason matches. To purchase season tickets, fans must select their seating area and place a 20 percent down payment.

Prices range from $170 ($34 down payment) to $500 ($100 down payment).

“We are pleased to offer such affordable season ticket prices for a brand-new professional sports team in Downtown Memphis,” USL Memphis President Craig Unger said. “It was a priority of ours all along to offer ways for families and young professionals to get in on the ground floor of this franchise in its inaugural season, and with season ticket prices starting at $10 or less per match we feel we have accomplished this. And for all season ticket holders to get a free ticket to the first soccer match in AutoZone Park history is icing on the cake.”

Based on popular demand, season tickets are currently available in the following sections:

• Club Premium (Sections 205, 207, 209, 211)
• Midfield (Sections 111, 113, 115)
• Sideline (Sections, 105, 107, 109, 117, 119)
• Supporters (108, 110, 112)

Supporters sections are general admission. Fans in these sections will be subject to excessive noise, smoke, flag-waving, drum-playing, disruption, and extreme fandom.

For each down payment placed, fans will receive one free ticket within their seating area on a best available basis for the first soccer match in AutoZone Park history, featuring Tim Howard and the Colorado Rapids against future USL Memphis opponent Tulsa Roughnecks FC on Saturday, Sept. 1.

To cement a place in Memphis soccer history, fans can place their 20 percent down payment at www.USL2Memphis.com/tickets or by calling (901) 721-6000.

Single-game tickets for the exhibition match are set to go on sale on Saturday at 10AM. USL Memphis ticket representatives will be available at (901) 721-6000 until 2PM. Tickets may also be purchased at www.USL2Memphis.com/tickets.

Follow USL Memphis on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for updates. For more information on the exhibition match and brand and logo reveal, visit www.USL2Memphis.com/soccershowdown, email tickets@usl2memphis.com, or call (901) 721-6000.

MEMPHIS, Tennessee – USL Memphis will unveil its team name and logo on Saturday, Sept. 1, the historic day will include an exhibition match at AutoZone Park between soccer legend Tim Howard and the Colorado Rapids of Major League Soccer against Tulsa Roughnecks FC of the United Soccer League at 7PM, the first professional soccer match at AutoZone Park.

The momentous event will include a festive match day experience as AutoZone Park will transform into a soccer pitch for the first time in its existence. With the team name, logo and pitch on full display, Memphians will have an exclusive preview of USL Memphis’ inaugural season kicking off in Spring 2019.

Fans who have placed a USL Memphis 2019 season ticket deposit, or who place a season ticket deposit, will receive the first opportunity to secure tickets to the commemorative match. To cement your place in Memphis soccer history, make your season ticket deposit today at USL2Memphis.com/tickets or by calling (901) 721-6000.

Single-game tickets for the exhibition, if available, will be for sale to the general public at a later date.

More specifics of the logo launch, brand reveal, and exhibition match will be announced in the coming weeks. Follow USL Memphis on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for updates.

Tim Howard, a Memphis resident and USL Memphis advisor since its unveiling in Jan., is one of the most decorated American soccer players in history. The legendary goalkeeper has represented the United States Men’s National Team in every year since 2002 and, during that time, has amassed 115 caps.

He was ever-present for his country during the 2014 World Cup and created a record for the most saves in a tournament game with 16 stops against Belgium in the Knockout Round. He has also represented the U.S. in the World Cups of 2006 and 2010.

Howard joined the Colorado Rapids in 2016 after playing in the English Premier League from when he joined Manchester United in 2003 until May of 2016.

Colorado Rapids was founded in 1995 and won the MLS Cup in 2010. Tulsa Roughnecks FC, a future league foe of USL Memphis starting next season, was founded in 2013 and began play in the USL in 2015.

For more information email tickets@usl2memphis.com or call 901.721.6000.

MEMPHIS, Tennessee – USL Memphis will unveil its team name and logo on Saturday, Sept. 1, the historic day will include an exhibition match at AutoZone Park between soccer legend Tim Howard and the Colorado Rapids of Major League Soccer against Tulsa Roughnecks FC of the United Soccer League at 7PM, the first professional soccer match at AutoZone Park.

The momentous event will include a festive match day experience as AutoZone Park will transform into a soccer pitch for the first time in its existence. With the team name, logo and pitch on full display, Memphians will have an exclusive preview of USL Memphis’ inaugural season kicking off in Spring 2019.

Fans who have placed a USL Memphis 2019 season ticket deposit, or who place a season ticket deposit, will receive the first opportunity to secure tickets to the commemorative match. To cement your place in Memphis soccer history, make your season ticket deposit today at USL2Memphis.com/tickets or by calling (901) 721-6000.

Single-game tickets for the exhibition, if available, will be for sale to the general public at a later date.

More specifics of the logo launch, brand reveal, and exhibition match will be announced in the coming weeks. Follow USL Memphis on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for updates.

Tim Howard, a Memphis resident and USL Memphis advisor since its unveiling in Jan., is one of the most decorated American soccer players in history. The legendary goalkeeper has represented the United States Men’s National Team in every year since 2002 and, during that time, has amassed 115 caps.

He was ever-present for his country during the 2014 World Cup and created a record for the most saves in a tournament game with 16 stops against Belgium in the Knockout Round. He has also represented the U.S. in the World Cups of 2006 and 2010.

Howard joined the Colorado Rapids in 2016 after playing in the English Premier League from when he joined Manchester United in 2003 until May of 2016.

Colorado Rapids was founded in 1995 and won the MLS Cup in 2010. Tulsa Roughnecks FC, a future league foe of USL Memphis starting next season, was founded in 2013 and began play in the USL in 2015.

For more information email tickets@usl2memphis.com or call 901.721.6000.

MEMPHIS, Tennessee – USL Memphis has named Andrew Bell, formerly of the Charleston Battery, its inaugural Sporting Director, team President Craig Unger announced Monday.

Bell, who has spent nearly 20 years with the United Soccer League’s Battery, will be tasked with handling all player and technical staff-related decisions and building the USL Memphis Front Office with the team’s 2019 debut one year away.

“We are excited to take this first step in building a world-class franchise,” said Unger. “Andrew brings tremendous experience on both the technical and business side of soccer, and his knowledge, passion, and dedication to the game is exactly what we need as we get ready to bring professional soccer to AutoZone Park.”

“Memphis is a remarkable city, and the opportunity to help build what I'm certain will be an amazing soccer Club was too big to pass up,” Bell said. “I'm excited to start working on the project, and I can't wait to meet the fans. The commitment of our ownership group is going to allow us not just to be part of the amazing growth of professional soccer in the United States but also to create something really special here in Memphis.”

“Charleston’s operation has a fantastic reputation in the soccer world from top to bottom,” soccer legend and USL Memphis Advisor Tim Howard said. “Having Andrew join the Memphis staff brings instant credibility to the organization and sets it up to hit the ground running.”

A native of Wokingham, Berkshire, England, Bell began working for the Battery as its radio play-by-play announcer in 1999 after moving to the United States in 1995. He served in a variety of roles for the team, including Director of Marketing, Director of Sales, and President, which was the role he held most recently from 2008 until moving to USL Memphis.

During his tenure as Battery President, the club won two USL championships in 2010 and 2012 and advanced to the final of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup in 2008, which was the last time a non-Major League Soccer side played in U.S. Soccer’s national championship match.

Off the pitch, Bell was instrumental in a revitalized fan experience at Charleston’s MUSC Health Stadium, including significant investments in stadium infrastructure such as a 3,000-square-foot videoboard, an English-styled pub called The Three Lions Club, sky boxes, and state-of-the-art media capabilities. For the team, recent renovations to the stadium included new locker rooms, a gym, enhanced athletic training facilities, and a practice field designed to replicate the playing surface at the stadium. 

Bell was instrumental in bringing many high-profile clubs to Charleston for friendlies, including Rangers F.C., West Bromwich Albion, Portsmouth F.C., and Bolton Wanderers, in addition to many MLS sides for the club’s annual preseason tournament, the Carolina Challenge Cup.

A lifelong soccer player, although he played Rugby League for the University of Bradford while earning a BSC in Archaeological Science, Bell is a lifelong supporter of Reading F.C.
 
Bell was an Honorary Commander for two years with the 437th Airlift Wing, Joint Base Charleston, and he currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Palmetto Military Support Group.

About USL Memphis
USL Memphis was unveiled on Jan. 8, 2018 and will begin play at AutoZone Park in Downtown Memphis as part of the United Soccer League in 2019. USL Memphis, led by Principal Owner Peter Freund, President Craig Unger, and Sporting Director Andrew Bell, is part of a market that includes over 8,000 youth soccer players, an established American Outlaws chapter, and strong collegiate programs. Upon joining the USL, the Memphis club will be part of a southern radius that includes 10 teams within 500 miles of each other.

About the USL
The USL, headquartered in Tampa, Fla., is one of the most prominent Division II professional soccer leagues in the world, reaching a population of more than 75 million people to fuel the growth of professional soccer across North America. A growing league, the USL has more than doubled in size since 2014, with Ottawa Fury FC, Reno 1868 FC and the Tampa Bay Rowdies debuting in 2017. Nashville SC, Fresno FC, Las Vegas Lights FC, North Carolina FC, Indy Eleven and ATL UTD 2 are set to join the league for 2018, with Birmingham, Alabama, Austin, Texas, El Paso, Texas and Memphis, Tennessee set to join the league in 2019. Beyond league play, the USL regularly features international exhibitions against leading Premier League, Liga MX, and Bundesliga clubs, among others.

MEMPHIS, Tennessee – USL Memphis has named Andrew Bell, formerly of the Charleston Battery, its inaugural Sporting Director, team President Craig Unger announced Monday.

Bell, who has spent nearly 20 years with the United Soccer League’s Battery, will be tasked with handling all player and technical staff-related decisions and building the USL Memphis Front Office with the team’s 2019 debut one year away.

“We are excited to take this first step in building a world-class franchise,” said Unger. “Andrew brings tremendous experience on both the technical and business side of soccer, and his knowledge, passion, and dedication to the game is exactly what we need as we get ready to bring professional soccer to AutoZone Park.”

“Memphis is a remarkable city, and the opportunity to help build what I’m certain will be an amazing soccer Club was too big to pass up,” Bell said. “I’m excited to start working on the project, and I can’t wait to meet the fans. The commitment of our ownership group is going to allow us not just to be part of the amazing growth of professional soccer in the United States but also to create something really special here in Memphis.”

“Charleston’s operation has a fantastic reputation in the soccer world from top to bottom,” soccer legend and USL Memphis Advisor Tim Howard said. “Having Andrew join the Memphis staff brings instant credibility to the organization and sets it up to hit the ground running.”

A native of Wokingham, Berkshire, England, Bell began working for the Battery as its radio play-by-play announcer in 1999 after moving to the United States in 1995. He served in a variety of roles for the team, including Director of Marketing, Director of Sales, and President, which was the role he held most recently from 2008 until moving to USL Memphis.

During his tenure as Battery President, the club won two USL championships in 2010 and 2012 and advanced to the final of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup in 2008, which was the last time a non-Major League Soccer side played in U.S. Soccer’s national championship match.

Off the pitch, Bell was instrumental in a revitalized fan experience at Charleston’s MUSC Health Stadium, including significant investments in stadium infrastructure such as a 3,000-square-foot videoboard, an English-styled pub called The Three Lions Club, sky boxes, and state-of-the-art media capabilities. For the team, recent renovations to the stadium included new locker rooms, a gym, enhanced athletic training facilities, and a practice field designed to replicate the playing surface at the stadium. 

Bell was instrumental in bringing many high-profile clubs to Charleston for friendlies, including Rangers F.C., West Bromwich Albion, Portsmouth F.C., and Bolton Wanderers, in addition to many MLS sides for the club’s annual preseason tournament, the Carolina Challenge Cup.

A lifelong soccer player, although he played Rugby League for the University of Bradford while earning a BSC in Archaeological Science, Bell is a lifelong supporter of Reading F.C.
 
Bell was an Honorary Commander for two years with the 437th Airlift Wing, Joint Base Charleston, and he currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Palmetto Military Support Group.

About USL Memphis
USL Memphis was unveiled on Jan. 8, 2018 and will begin play at AutoZone Park in Downtown Memphis as part of the United Soccer League in 2019. USL Memphis, led by Principal Owner Peter Freund, President Craig Unger, and Sporting Director Andrew Bell, is part of a market that includes over 8,000 youth soccer players, an established American Outlaws chapter, and strong collegiate programs. Upon joining the USL, the Memphis club will be part of a southern radius that includes 10 teams within 500 miles of each other.

About the USL
The USL, headquartered in Tampa, Fla., is one of the most prominent Division II professional soccer leagues in the world, reaching a population of more than 75 million people to fuel the growth of professional soccer across North America. A growing league, the USL has more than doubled in size since 2014, with Ottawa Fury FC, Reno 1868 FC and the Tampa Bay Rowdies debuting in 2017. Nashville SC, Fresno FC, Las Vegas Lights FC, North Carolina FC, Indy Eleven and ATL UTD 2 are set to join the league for 2018, with Birmingham, Alabama, Austin, Texas, El Paso, Texas and Memphis, Tennessee set to join the league in 2019. Beyond league play, the USL regularly features international exhibitions against leading Premier League, Liga MX, and Bundesliga clubs, among others.

MEMPHIS, Tennessee — Downtown Memphis’ newest professional sports team was unveiled Monday by Major League Soccer star, United States National Team goalkeeper, and Memphian Tim Howard, with the ownership group led by Principal Owner Peter Freund, President Craig Unger, and the St. Louis Cardinals organization revealing plans to bring a United Soccer League team to AutoZone Park.

The yet-to-be-named USL Memphis team will play its inaugural season in 2019 at the downtown home of the Memphis Redbirds, which will be converted from a soccer venue to a baseball stadium throughout the season. The stadium will take on a soccer-specific atmosphere with the transformation to an authentic soccer experience, including food and beverage options, unique seating areas, and more to highlight the joy of the game and passion of its supporters.

“When I first visited AutoZone Park before purchasing the Redbirds, I immediately recognized the potential for it to be home to more than one professional sports team," said Freund. “We will build an entirely separate organization focused on providing an authentic soccer experience similar to what Yankee Stadium, home to the New York City Football Club, has been able to achieve at the MLS level."

“AutoZone Park is a big part of the fabric of the city and is the setting for so many memories for people each year, and now, we are going to be able to invite even more people to experience the excitement,” said Unger. “The stadium will now be buzzing every weekend from March through September.”

“Memphis is my home in the offseason, and I cannot express how excited I am to support professional soccer downtown,” Howard said. “We will have a chance to see some of the brightest talent in the game playing in our city, and I look forward to helping the USL Memphis organization on any and every level I can to ensure its success."

In 2018, the 34 USL teams will play 34 matches over 31 weeks in the regular season running from late March through mid-Oct., with Louisville City FC the defending USL Cup champion. The nationally-spread league is divided into Eastern and Western Conferences and focuses on regional rivalries in scheduling.

Memphis will join the league alongside Austin and Birmingham in 2019. Upon arrival, Memphis will be part of a group of 10 current teams within a 500-mile radius of each other, including Louisville City FC, the Charleston Battery, the Charlotte Independence, Saint Louis FC, and the Swope Park Rangers.

For more information, visit www.usl2memphis.com and follow the franchise on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram at USL Memphis. The team name and colors are scheduled to be unveiled at a later date.

Deposits for priority access to season tickets are available now and include a gift of a USL Memphis scarf or one of three USL Memphis t-shirts. Deposits can be made at www.usl2memphis.com/tickets.

About the USL:
The USL, headquartered in Tampa, Fla., is one of the most prominent Division II professional soccer leagues in the world, reaching a population of more than 75 million people to fuel the growth of professional soccer across North America.

In 2016, more than $100 million were invested league-wide into stadium infrastructure to create venues that deliver an unforgettable fan and competitor experience. The USL has national media partnerships with ESPN and SiriusXM, and recently invested $10 million to create USL Productions – which includes a state-of-the-art facility that will produce and distribute nearly 500 league matches and more than 1,000 hours of original content to national partners, local affiliates, USL’s Match Center and international markets.

A growing league, the USL has more than doubled in size since 2014, with Ottawa Fury FC, Reno 1868 FC and the Tampa Bay Rowdies debuting in 2017. Nashville SC, Fresno FC, Las Vegas Lights FC, North Carolina FC and a new club operated by Atlanta United of Major League Soccer are set to join the league for 2018, with Birmingham, Alabama, Austin, Texas and Memphis, Tennessee, set to join the league in 2019. Beyond league play, the USL regularly features international exhibitions against leading Premier League, Liga MX, and Bundesliga clubs, among others.

USL History:
The USL was formed when two existing professional leagues were combined into a single league property before the 2011 season. The league was designed to help ensure the long-term stability of professional soccer in North America, and featured 12 teams in a pair of six-team divisions during its initial campaign. Among the league’s founding members are five longtime USL clubs with more than 100 years of operation among them – the Charleston Battery, Harrisburg City Islanders, Pittsburgh Riverhounds, Richmond Kickers and Rochester Rhinos. In January of 2017, after a thorough application review process, the U.S. Soccer Federation granted the USL Division II status beginning in the 2017 season, recognizing the significant investment and high level of operating excellence of the USL and its member clubs.

MLS Partnership:
Major League Soccer and the USL announced a multi-year partnership in early 2013 designed to enhance the development of professional players in North America.

Four years later, the partnership between the two leagues has proven to be a resounding success. The LA Galaxy II, the first team in league history to be owned and operated by an MLS club, entered competition in the USL in 2014, opening the door for additional teams to either launch a USL affiliate or partner with an independent USL club.

In 2017, expansion side Reno 1868 FC, led by Indiana Pacers owner Herb Simon, partnered with the MLS’s San Jose Earthquakes to bring professional soccer to Nevada.

Overall, there are 10 USL teams owned and operated by MLS clubs and 11 USL-MLS affiliations among the USL clubs set to compete in 2018.

MEMPHIS, Tennessee — Downtown Memphis’ newest professional sports team was unveiled Monday by Major League Soccer star, United States National Team goalkeeper, and Memphian Tim Howard, with the ownership group led by Principal Owner Peter Freund, President Craig Unger, and the St. Louis Cardinals organization revealing plans to bring a United Soccer League team to AutoZone Park.

The yet-to-be-named USL Memphis team will play its inaugural season in 2019 at the downtown home of the Memphis Redbirds, which will be converted from a soccer venue to a baseball stadium throughout the season. The stadium will take on a soccer-specific atmosphere with the transformation to an authentic soccer experience, including food and beverage options, unique seating areas, and more to highlight the joy of the game and passion of its supporters.

“When I first visited AutoZone Park before purchasing the Redbirds, I immediately recognized the potential for it to be home to more than one professional sports team,” said Freund. “We will build an entirely separate organization focused on providing an authentic soccer experience similar to what Yankee Stadium, home to the New York City Football Club, has been able to achieve at the MLS level.”

“AutoZone Park is a big part of the fabric of the city and is the setting for so many memories for people each year, and now, we are going to be able to invite even more people to experience the excitement,” said Unger. “The stadium will now be buzzing every weekend from March through September.”

“Memphis is my home in the offseason, and I cannot express how excited I am to support professional soccer downtown,” Howard said. “We will have a chance to see some of the brightest talent in the game playing in our city, and I look forward to helping the USL Memphis organization on any and every level I can to ensure its success.”

In 2018, the 34 USL teams will play 34 matches over 31 weeks in the regular season running from late March through mid-Oct., with Louisville City FC the defending USL Cup champion. The nationally-spread league is divided into Eastern and Western Conferences and focuses on regional rivalries in scheduling.

Memphis will join the league alongside Austin and Birmingham in 2019. Upon arrival, Memphis will be part of a group of 10 current teams within a 500-mile radius of each other, including Louisville City FC, the Charleston Battery, the Charlotte Independence, Saint Louis FC, and the Swope Park Rangers.

For more information, visit www.usl2memphis.com and follow the franchise on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram at USL Memphis. The team name and colors are scheduled to be unveiled at a later date.

Deposits for priority access to season tickets are available now and include a gift of a USL Memphis scarf or one of three USL Memphis t-shirts. Deposits can be made at www.usl2memphis.com/tickets.

About the USL:
The USL, headquartered in Tampa, Fla., is one of the most prominent Division II professional soccer leagues in the world, reaching a population of more than 75 million people to fuel the growth of professional soccer across North America.

In 2016, more than $100 million were invested league-wide into stadium infrastructure to create venues that deliver an unforgettable fan and competitor experience. The USL has national media partnerships with ESPN and SiriusXM, and recently invested $10 million to create USL Productions – which includes a state-of-the-art facility that will produce and distribute nearly 500 league matches and more than 1,000 hours of original content to national partners, local affiliates, USL’s Match Center and international markets.

A growing league, the USL has more than doubled in size since 2014, with Ottawa Fury FC, Reno 1868 FC and the Tampa Bay Rowdies debuting in 2017. Nashville SC, Fresno FC, Las Vegas Lights FC, North Carolina FC and a new club operated by Atlanta United of Major League Soccer are set to join the league for 2018, with Birmingham, Alabama, Austin, Texas and Memphis, Tennessee, set to join the league in 2019. Beyond league play, the USL regularly features international exhibitions against leading Premier League, Liga MX, and Bundesliga clubs, among others.

USL History:
The USL was formed when two existing professional leagues were combined into a single league property before the 2011 season. The league was designed to help ensure the long-term stability of professional soccer in North America, and featured 12 teams in a pair of six-team divisions during its initial campaign. Among the league’s founding members are five longtime USL clubs with more than 100 years of operation among them – the Charleston Battery, Harrisburg City Islanders, Pittsburgh Riverhounds, Richmond Kickers and Rochester Rhinos. In January of 2017, after a thorough application review process, the U.S. Soccer Federation granted the USL Division II status beginning in the 2017 season, recognizing the significant investment and high level of operating excellence of the USL and its member clubs.

MLS Partnership:
Major League Soccer and the USL announced a multi-year partnership in early 2013 designed to enhance the development of professional players in North America.

Four years later, the partnership between the two leagues has proven to be a resounding success. The LA Galaxy II, the first team in league history to be owned and operated by an MLS club, entered competition in the USL in 2014, opening the door for additional teams to either launch a USL affiliate or partner with an independent USL club.

In 2017, expansion side Reno 1868 FC, led by Indiana Pacers owner Herb Simon, partnered with the MLS’s San Jose Earthquakes to bring professional soccer to Nevada.

Overall, there are 10 USL teams owned and operated by MLS clubs and 11 USL-MLS affiliations among the USL clubs set to compete in 2018.