Charlotte Eagles News Release -- www.charlotteeagles.com
Wednesday, March 27, 2013
CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- The Charlotte Eagles are excited to announce the addition of Shaun Francis to their 2013 USL PRO roster. With significant turn over in the Eagles' back line, Francis is an accomplished and proven veteran able to add leadership and experience on the field.
"Shaun brings attacking flair to the left back position," Eagles GM Tom Engstrom said. "Coach Steffens likes his outside backs to get forward and Shaun will certainly do that. He brings great experience from his time with the Columbus Crew of Major League Soccer and the Jamaican National Team. Just as important he is a quality person. We are fortunate to have Shaun added to the club this year."
A native Jamaican, Francis quickly became a noted player where he was an All-Island, Ben Francis Cup, and Dá Costa Cup Champion, as well as a member of an All-Conference Team. He displayed exemplary skills for Calabar High at the Pepsi, Colts and Manning Cup levels.
He came to the United States to attend Lindsey Wilson where he scored seven goals in 61 appearances and served as the captain of the 2009 NAIA National Championship team. During his college tenure Francis also played with both the Indiana Invaders and Thunder Bay Chill of the PDL.
Francis was drafted in the fourth round of the 2010 MLS SuperDraft by the Columbus Crew. In July 2010, he made his professional debut in the U.S. Open Cup and made his MLS debut against the New York Red Bulls. Francis made 38 appearances for the Crew from 2010-2012.
While playing for the Crew in 2010, Francis earned his first cap for the Jamaican national team squad during a friendly against Trinidad & Tobago. He scored his first senior team goal in a 2-0 victory over Guadeloupe in the 2010 Caribbean Championship. Overall he has five caps for the national team.
Purchase your Eagles tickets today a www.charlotteeagles.com or call 704-841-8644. Home opener is April 13th, kickoff at 7 p.m. at Queens Sports Complex.