Charleston Battery News Release -- www.charlestonbattery.com
Tuesday, April 3, 2012
CHARLESTON, S.C. -- Defender John Wilson has agreed to terms and will return to play for the Charleston Battery in the 2012 USL PRO season pending USL and USSF approval. After reversing a retirement decision prior to the 2011 season Wilson enjoyed another excellent year with the Battery playing 19 games and becoming the first outfield player to reach 200 games in the club's history.
Wilson has played on two of the Battery’s three championship winning teams (2003 & 2010) his career Charleston Battery totals includes 205 games played (second all-time), 17,921 minutes, one goal and nine assists.
A native of Seneca, S.C., Wilson began his pro career with the Charleston Battery in 1999. After an outstanding rookie season Wilson joined Major League Soccer’s Kansas City Wizards in 2000. Wilson returned to the Battery in 2001 and spent three seasons with the club including 2003 when he was a member of the Championship winning team.
In 2004 Wilson moved to the Rochester Rhinos then a year later was signed by Major League Soccer’s D.C. United. After three years with D.C. United Wilson rejoined the Battery before the start of the 2008 season and was a member of the Battery team that lost in the 2008 Open Cup final versus D.C. United.
“It is great to be back for my ninth season playing for what I consider my home club," Wilson said. "I am also excited to once again play in front of great fans as well as family and friends here in Charleston. I am very lucky and blessed to play for this club and live in a great city that I now call home.”
Wilson helped the Battery win the 2010 USL Second Division Championship and announced his retirement from pro soccer after the game but reversed his decision prior to the start of the 2011 season.
Wilson, 5-foot-9, 170 pounds, had an outstanding college career at Clemson University and was named All-ACC in 1997 and 1998. The 34-year-old played in 57 matches for the Tigers, scored 18 goals and added 35 assists in his career. Wilson helped Clemson to an ACC Championship, No.1 national ranking and Elite Eight NCAA finish in 1998.
“Getting John back is very beneficial to the team as his leadership and experience will bring a lot to the younger defenders and players,” said Head Coach Mike Anhaeuser.
Battery opens season in Richmond Saturday – listen live on 1340 AM
The Charleston Battery opens its USL PRO campaign Saturday in Richmond, Va. with a 5 p.m. match versus the Richmond Kickers. The game will be broadcast live on 1340 AM and will also be available via a live audio stream at www.charlestonbattery.com. Fans can also follow the action via the Battery’s Twitter feed at @Chas_Battery.
Charleston Battery home opener – Saturday April 14
The Charleston Battery's home opener is set for Saturday, April 14 at Blackbaud Stadium against the Richmond Kickers; kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. The game is the official kick off celebration for the Battery’s 20th anniversary season, the team will be wearing special ‘retro ‘93’ jerseys and there will be fireworks immediately following the match.
Single game tickets are on sale now starting at just $10; to purchase tickets or for more information please visitwww.charlestonbattery.com or call (843) 971-GOAL (4625).