Charlotte Eagles News Release -- www.charlotteeagles.com
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
CHARLOTTE, N.C. - The Charlotte Eagles are pleased to announce the signing of Eric Reed for the 2011 USL PRO season, pending USSF approval.
Eagles GM Tom Engstrom hopes Reed will bring his winning ways to Charlotte.
"Eric Reed is a true professional and has been a winner throughout his career ranging from his college days at UCLA and the PDL’s Southern California Seahorses to his professional career with the Carolina Railhawks and Cleveland City Stars," Engstrom said. "We expect him to be a great addition both on and off the field."
Reed has enjoyed a prolific career in the United Soccer Leagues after finishing a successful collegiate career at UCLA. Red-shirting his freshman year, he appeared in four games and continued his good form earning an additional 16 games in his second year. He was a consistent first team starter during the next two years.
While attending college, he competed in the USL Premier Development League with the Charlotte Eagles’ affiliate, Southern California Seahorses. Reed was the 2006 PDL Goalkeeper of the Year, leading the league with a 0.62 goals-against-average as well as the top shutout total with 10.
In 2007 Reed was selected by the California Victory of the USL First Division in the 2007 College Player Draft. At the end of the 2007 USL-1 season, California Victory fans voted Reed as team MVP.
Reed moved on to the USL 2 Division Cleveland Stars who he helped win the USL-2 title in 2008. Reed then joined the Carolina RailHawks for the 2009 season, posting a 13-5-2 record in 20 matches with a 0.70 goals-against average, eight shutouts and 58 saves.
"The coaching staff is thrilled to have Eric Reed as our keeper," Eagles coach Mark Steffens said. "I have seen him play quite a few times and have not found a weakness yet. He is the total package in goal; a natural leader that takes charge in the back. I’m sure he will be a standout player."
The Eagles’ home opener is April 16 against Orlando at Charlotte Christian School. Fans at Eagles games have the great opportunity of seeing professional soccer in a family-friendly entertaining atmosphere at affordable prices! With the Charlotte Eagles you are more than a fan, you are a member of our team!