RailHawks NPSL to hold open tryouts on April 29th & 30th
After two seasons in the National Premier Soccer League (NPSL), the Carolina RailHawks announced the re-branding of their RailHawks U-23 team to Carolina RailHawks NPSL. With this new name, the RailHawks development team will now also open its doors to players over the age of 23.
“We are very focused on identifying, developing, and signing players with local ties,” said RailHawks President and General Manager Curt Johnson. “This change in our NPSL program will enhance our ability to successfully compete in the NPSL and to evaluate a broader pool of players for our senior team. I can’t wait to see our RailHawks NPSL in action this May.”
The RailHawks NPSL will continue to be led by head coach Dewan Bader. Bader, also serves as Assistant Coach for the Carolina RailHawks NASL professional team. Bader guided the RailHawks U-23’s to three consecutive Region III titles (2011-2013) and two National Championships (2011, 2013) while competing in the USASA U-23 Men’s Cup. Joining him will be longtime RailHawks U-23 coaches Luis Satora and Rick King, as well as former RailHawks fan favorite Zach Schilawski.
Bader and staff have been integral in the development of over 25 former U-23’s that have gone on to play professional soccer in the United States and abroad. Sixteen of those professional players have earned roster spots with the RailHawks professional team.
During the last eight seasons, the U23s have included such players as Mamadou “Futty” Danso, Jordan Graye, Michael Grella, Enzo Martinez, Ike Opara, Clint Irwin, Zach Schilawski, Brian Shriver, Billy Schuler, Akira Fitzgerald, Nazmi Albadawi, and Conor Donovan.
The RailHawks NPSL will be holding a 2-day open tryout for their 2016 NPSL season on Friday, April 29th and Saturday, April 30th. The registration fee is $125 and includes a ticket to the Carolina RailHawks NASL match on Saturday, May 7th against the Tampa Bay Rowdies.
