Charlotte Independence Soccer Club Hires Jackson Brandwene to Goalkeeping Director - North
July 25, 2025
July 25th, 2025- Charlotte, NC - The Charlotte Independence Soccer Club (CISC) hires Jackson Brandwene to Goalkeeping Director- North. Most recently, Brandwene served as the lead MLS NEXT and National Academy League Goalkeeping Coach & Coordinator for Sporting Athletic Club.
“I am excited to get started and help oversee the success of Charlotte Independence Soccer Club’s GK Union as the club transitions to MLS Next and MLS Next 2. My goal is to create a tight-knit goalkeeping group where each goalkeeper has opportunities, support, and resources to reach their maximum potential and are prepared to dominate at the next level of the game,” said Jackson Brandwene.
“As a coach, I believe in preparing goalkeeper's for success through game-like training, attention to detail, and the development of their understanding of the game and the modern goalkeeper's role in it.”
During his time at Sporting Athletic Club, Jackson was instrumental in designing and leading goalkeeper training sessions and pre-match routines. He created personalized development plans by evaluating each player’s strengths, areas for growth, and long-term goals. Jackson also managed assistant coaches, oversaw training schedules, and identified talent both inside and outside the club, including MLS Next prospects. In additional to his commitment on the field, he helped goalkeepers pursue collegiate and professional opportunities.
“We are extremely excited to add Jackson to the goalkeeping department here at CISC. Jackson’s energy, commitment, dedications, and experience will be a huge asset to the goalkeepers in the club,” said Charlotte Independence Soccer Club Director of Coaching – Goalkeeping Matt Brown. “We feel the addition of Jackson we will not only make us stronger in what is already an industry leading program but add to the culture of our club and community. We look forward to getting him here to get the ball rolling.”
Jackson played semi-professional soccer, an experience that helps him connect with players and guide them as they pursue their own goals. Most recently, he competed with First State FC in Wilmington, Delaware, a club that plays in the NPSL, where he mentored both youth and collegiate players with professional aspirations. He also played for Pittsburgh Hotspurs Soccer Club, where he continued mentoring the next generation of players within the organization.
Jackson’s attention to detail was evident even before his semi-professional career. He attended Wilmington University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies with a minor in Political Science, while playing as a goalkeeper for the men’s soccer team. During his collegiate career, he was recognized as the 2021 CACC Top XVI Award recipient, given to the student-athlete with the highest cumulative GPA in the conference. He was also named to the 2020 CACC All-Academic Team, and served as the 2020–2021 Student-Athlete Advisory Committee Representative for men’s soccer.
“I would like to thank my wife, Jenna, for her support during this big change in our life and for the sacrifices she has made for me to take this opportunity,” said Jackson Brandwene. “Also, I want to give a shoutout to my three dogs Denver, Violet, and Hugo!”
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Soccer is Fun! Have you ever thought about introducing your child to the fun and excitement of soccer? Join us at our Soccer is Fun FREE Youth Clinic's in July 2025 to see if it's the right fit for you! We will have three clinics offered in Huntersville, Rock Hill, and Mooresville. Our professional coaching staff will be coming to your community to teach you the game, give insight about the club, and most importantly, have fun! Come out for a soccer-filled day and learn more about Charlotte Independence Soccer Club! Clinics at Richard Barry Park, Mazeppa Park, and Manchester Meadows are offered to ages 2-10.
June 30 th , 2025 - Charlotte, NC - The Charlotte Independence Soccer Club (CISC) promotes Bailey Cullen to Director of North Meck Junior Girls and Girls Regional Academy North Staff. “I’m incredibly grateful to Charlotte Independence Soccer Club and the Leadership Team for trusting me with the opportunity to support and guide our young players,” said Bailey Cullen. “It’s an honor to be part of their journey—not just in soccer, but in their personal growth as well. I’m looking forward to helping them reach their potential, deepen their love for the game, and create memories that will stick with them for years to come. Excited for the season ahead and all the growth, hard work, and fun we’ll share on and off the field.” Bailey joined Independence Soccer in 2023 as the North Meck Coaching Director for the Girls U11–U12 age groups. Since then, she has also coached in the Girls Pre-ECNL program, which will be rebranded as the Pre-Girls Academy beginning with the 2025/2026 season. “We are super excited to promote Bailey Cullen,” said Girls Regional Academy North Director Rhem Stubbs. “She has truly excelled since joining the Independence two years ago. She has a big future in the game, and we are looking forward to her career here at Charlotte Independence Soccer Club.” As the new season kicks off in August, Bailey will be leading the 2013 Girls Regional Academy North. This marks the inaugural season for the team competing in the newly formed ASPIRE League, created by the Girls Academy (GA). Bailey will also continue her role in the Pre-Girls Academy program, coaching the 2014 Pre-Girls Academy North Tan team. 
June 16, 2025 – Charlotte, NC – The Charlotte Independence Soccer Club (CISC) promotes Sarah Oechslin to Director of Marketing and Promotions. “I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to step into this new role. I appreciate the trust and support from the club, and I’m excited to continue contributing to its growth, success, and impact in the community”, said Sarah Oechslin. In this new role, Sarah will lead the Marketing and Promotions team, driving strategic initiatives to enhance the club’s visibility, strengthen community connections, and support player recruitment and retention. Her responsibilities will include sponsorship fulfillment, digital content creation, community outreach, event coordination, internal communications, and more. "Sarah has done an exceptional job since joining us a year ago. From day one, she has been a leader in our club, and that leadership has been felt throughout our community. Our staff, players, and members have warmly embraced her — and she, in turn, has fully embraced our club’s culture and values," said Thomas Finlay, CEO. "Her impact has been clear, and we’re excited to see her take on this new role as we continue to evolve and grow as a club. We look forward to the future with Sarah helping lead the way". Over the past year, Sarah has served as both Brand Engagement and Events Specialist and Manager of Marketing Engagement and Events. In these roles, she played a pivotal role in increasing member engagement, executing club-wide initiatives, and expanding the club’s promotional reach. Her marketing background includes experience with ECU Athletics, the Carolina Hurricanes, UNC Health Cary Orthopaedics, and North Carolina FC Youth. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Communication Studies with a concentration in Public Relations from East Carolina University. Sarah’s promotion is a testament to her leadership, creativity, and continued dedication to advancing the mission of the Charlotte Independence Soccer Club.
Carolina Rapids Soccer Club Legacy Coach Ready to Support Independence Community and Players
May 21, 2025 - Charlotte, NC - The Charlotte Independence Soccer Club (CISC) promotes Tatum Bourque to Pre MLS Academy Director "Tatum is a fantastic coach and leader with a strong background in the youth game," said Charlotte Independence Soccer Club Director of Soccer Neil Roberts. "We are excited to have Tatum lead our Boys Pre MLS Academy program into the future. We are extremely confident that the players will have a thorough experience and continue to grow and develop along our new MLS Next pathway." Tatum rejoined Independence in September 2024, having previously been with the club from 2019 to 2022, where he played a key role in inspiring players to reach their technical and personal goals. This season, he coached the Girls 2010 North Meck Tan team and has been actively involved at Richard Barry Park, supporting the development of both boys and girls in the North Meck Youth Academy. "I am very excited and thankful for the opportunity to begin my new role as the boys Pre MLS Academy Director of both the North and South locations,” said Tatum Bourque. “Some of the goals for the Pre MLS Academy will be to create and maintain an environment that is supportive, challenging and heavily focused on developing our players in ways that will benefit them both on and off the field. We have an incredible staff on hand that is committed to helping provide all the tools necessary to accomplish these goals! ” Tatum has consistently shown a deep commitment to the soccer community. He began his coaching career 15 years ago at Gaston United Soccer Club and now plays a key role in advancing players from the Youth Academy to the Pre MLS Academy, a high-level program that serves as a critical pathway to national and regional development platforms.
May 15, 2025 - Charlotte, NC - Charlotte Independence Soccer Club is proud to announce the promotion of Tristin Möller to U15-U19 North State Teams Director. Tristin previously served as the Cornelius/Davidson Recreation Program Director, where he led the development and organization of Recreation teams while coaching multiple competitive teams across both the girls’ and boys’ programs. His dedication to player experience, coach support, and community engagement has made a lasting impact. In his new role, Tristin will oversee the State Team programs in the region, focusing on player development and competitive success. Neil Roberts, Director of Soccer, says, "Tristin has been an incredibly hard worker for us this past year and this promotion is well deserved. He has a great soccer IQ and is full of new and innovative ideas. His leadership is much needed, and our state level players will recognize his impact immediately. We look forward to his leadership and direction next year." Tristin brings over a decade of coaching experience to the position, including six years of travel soccer in Chicago. He holds a USSF C License and a Scottish FA Level 2 certification. A graduate of UNC Chapel Hill with a degree in Exercise and Sports Science and a minor in Coaching Education, Tristin is passionate about long-term player development and advancing the coaching profession. "I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to take on this role with Charlotte Independence Soccer Club. The past year has been an amazing experience that’s helped prepare me for this next step. Going full time gives me the chance to be even more invested in the club, and I’m excited to give everything I’ve got to help it grow and succeed," says Möller.
May 13, 2025 - Charlotte, NC - The Charlotte Independence Soccer Club (CISC) promotes Alejandro (Ale) Marin to Mooresville Technical Staff. “I couldn’t be more excited for Ale to make this jump onto our full-time Technical Staff,” said Director of Youth Academy Mike Barroqueiro. “Over the time I’ve worked with him, Ale has proven to be not only a trusted member of our community but a top up & coming coach within our staff. His knowledge, desire to continue to learn, and relentless work ethic will surely set him for success in the new role. So proud to have him take on this new role!” Ale has been an outstanding addition to the Independence community since joining the club in 2022. His unwavering commitment to creating a positive and challenging environment has given our players the best chance to grow and thrive. Ale has coached across multiple levels within the Mooresville branch including recreation, futsal, Youth Academy, and currently leads the 2013 Mooresville Blue team in the Local Competitive program, which will transition to the State program this fall. “Working for Charlotte Independence these past three years has been nothing short of amazing! I am very grateful and excited to be given this opportunity by the club that has shown constant faith and support towards me,” said Ale Marin. “I look forward to working with the club on and off the field, as well as being able to work with players not only to develop them into great players, but also into extraordinary people.” Even when he's not on the field coaching, Ale actively contributes to the growth of soccer in the Mooresville community. He regularly supports initiatives like Soccer Is Fun clinics and Youth Academy Experience Days and often takes the time to cheer on players he’s previously coached, showing his lasting dedication to their development and the game.
April 25 th , 2025 - Charlotte, NC - The Charlotte Independence Soccer Club (CISC) promotes Luis Echeverry to Matthews Technical Staff & Youth Academy Director. “I’m honored to join the Matthews Technical Staff as the new Youth Academy Director,” said Luis Echeverry. “This is an exciting opportunity to work with a club that’s committed to developing players both on and off the field. I’m looking forward to bringing my experience and passion to help build a strong foundation for the next generation of talent.” Luis has been with Independence Soccer for 6 years. He initially coached both boys and girls in the Matthews Local Competitive program, which will be rebranded as the Matthews State Program beginning this fall. In addition to working with older players, Luis shared his expertise by also contributing to the Matthews Youth Academy “We are excited to have Luis onboard with us in this new role. He is a dedicated staff member with an undying work rate and passion for the game,” said Charlotte Independence Soccer Club Director of Soccer Neil Roberts. “Luis brings energy to the field each and every night and does a great job developing our players at every level.” This season, Luis coached the Girls 07 Matthews Blue, Girls 08 Matthews Blue, and the Boys 06/07 Matthews Blue. “The Matthews Youth Academy marks the first step in our State, Regional, and National Programming,” said Luis Echeverry. “This is an exciting time for the Matthews community, as we introduce a new Boys & Girls Regional Academy program launching this fall. Matthews has produced many talented players, and as the Youth Academy Director, I’m excited to help guide and develop our athletes so they’re ready for whatever competitive path they take.” The Boys Regional Academy Matthews will participate in the National Academy League (NAL), and the Girls Regional Academy Matthews will play in the Developmental Premier League (DPL). Click the buttons below to learn more about our Regional Academy Matthews program, and when Tryouts are happening near you.
April 17th, 2025 - Charlotte, NC - Charlotte Independence Soccer Club (CISC) promotes Brian Udy to Director of Boys Regional Academy South. “I am very excited to accept the Director Boys Regional Academy South position,” said Brian Udy. I look forward to playing a larger role for Charlotte Independence Soccer Club as we migrate to MLS NEXT and the National Premier League, and all that goes with making such a great move for our players and their development.” Brian joined Independence Soccer back in 2024 where he started to make an impact within the Boys York County Youth Academy. During the 2024/2025 season, he coached the 2025 the York County Youth Academy and the 2015 York County Blue. Brian was also involved with the Boys 2011 ECNL Regional South team, which will be rebranded as the Boys Regional Academy South program starting this fall. “Brian has been exceptional on and off the field since he started with us. He is a strong professional who is dedicated to player development and really takes the time to make sure his players and families enjoy their experience at our club,” said Charlotte Independence Soccer Club Director of Soccer Neil Roberts. “I am very confident that he will lead the Boys Regional Academy South in a very positive and productive manner. We are excited to benefit from Brian’s leadership!” The Boys Regional Academy South program will participate in the National Premier League (NPL). The leagues schedule benefits Independence Soccer players who live in South Carolina. Players will now be able to participate in High School Soccer without conflict from club soccer. More information regarding the Boys Regional Academy South can be found below.
Monday, April 14, 2025 - Charlotte, NC - Charlotte Independence Soccer Club is thrilled to announce the expansion of the Youth Academy program to the Town of Tega Cay. Expanding our Youth Academy into Tega Cay is an exciting step for our program and for all wonderful players and families in that area," said Director of Youth Academy Mike Barroquerio. "With a deeply rooted soccer community, Tega Cay and the Charlotte Independence Soccer Club Youth Academy is sure to be an incredible partnership. We’re excited to grow new relationships with all our friends in Tega Cay.” The Youth Academy is the initial step into the Player Pathway towards our State, Regional, and National Competitive Programs. Players learn to develop technical and tactical skills with professional coaches while creating those lasting friendships throughout the season. To learn more about the program, make sure to click the button below.
