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!”

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