Charleston Battery News Release -- www.charlestonbattery.com
Wednesday, February 6, 2013
CHARLESTON, S.C. -- The Charleston Battery have agreed to terms with midfielder Nicki Paterson who will return to the Battery for the 2013 USL PRO Season. Paterson had a stellar year with the Battery in 2012 leading the team in scoring as he helped Charleston claim its fourth USL Championship.
“Nicki is an integral part of the Charleston Battery as he has demonstrated over the past two seasons and we are excited for him to extend his contract with us for another three years,” said Head Coach Mike Anhaeuser.
Paterson scored 12 goals and added two assists in all competitions last year; his two-year totals with the Battery now include 20 goals and six assists in 56 games played. Paterson was named to the 2012 USL PRO All-League First Team.
Paterson was a member of Scottish side Motherwell’s youth academy but his first senior contract was with Scotland’s Hamilton Academicals. In 2005 Paterson moved to the US to attend and play for the University of Nevada – Las Vegas where he was a four-year starter.
After college Paterson joined the Harrisburg City Islanders in 2009 before switching to the Real Maryland Monarchs for the 2010 season. He then signed a short term contract with Scottish 2nd division Clyde FC before moving to the Battery at the start of the 2011 season.
“I am delighted to have signed an extension to be a part of this great club for a longer term and be a part of this special city,” said Paterson. "When I came here in 2011, I had heard how the fans, club and city were the best in USL PRO and have found that absolutely to be true. I also had the goals of winning a championship, which we accomplished last season and will work hard to bring another championship this season.”
Paterson is currently training with Major League Soccer’s New York Red Bulls but is scheduled to return to the Battery in time for the Carolina Challenge Cup.
Carolina Challenge Cup featuring Major League Soccer
The Charleston Battery opens its pre-season camp at the start of February as it begins preparations for the 10th edition of the Carolina Challenge Cup featuring Major League Soccer.
The Carolina Challenge Cup is the premier pre-season tournament in the US. Each year for the past decade the Battery has been joined by three teams from Major League Soccer for the round-robin competition. Single day tickets (includes two games) start at just $15; for more information or to purchase tickets please call (843) 971-GOAL (4625) or visit www.charlestonbattery.com.
2013 Carolina Challenge Cup
Saturday, February 16
Chicago Fire vs. Houston Dynamo, 5 p.m.
Charleston Battery vs. Vancouver Whitecaps FC, 7:15 p.m.
Wednesday, February 20
Houston Dynamo vs. Vancouver Whitecaps FC, 5 p.m.
Charleston Battery vs. Chicago Fire, 7:15 p.m.
Saturday, February 23
Chicago Fire vs. Vancouver Whitecaps FC, 5 p.m.
Charleston Battery vs. Houston Dynamo, 7:15 p.m.
All games played at Blackbaud Stadium, Daniel Island, S.C.