Independence Soccer Club Partners with WorldStrides Sports for International Sports Tours
October 21, 2022
Once-in-a-Lifetime International Experiences Provide Athletes Athletic and Cultural Exposure
Charlotte, N.C. (October 20th, 2022) — WorldStrides Sports is partnering with Independence Soccer Club to deliver international soccer tours to the club community.
Players taking part in trips the summer of 2023 will have the opportunity to emerse themselves in international soccer culture.
The Independence Soccer Club provides program opportunities throughout North and South Carolina communities for players of all ages, gender, skill, and ability. WorldStrides is the nation’s largest and trusted provider of educational sports travel & experiences and looks forward to providing the resources for Independence players to take travel abroad.
“We are delighted to announce our partnership with WorldStrides,” said Charlotte Independence Soccer Club Chief Executive Officer Thomas Finlay. “International travel is a complement to our overall programming. We firmly believe that it helps players develop on and off the field. WorldStrides will be able to provide opportunities to several countries which will certainly create trips of a lifetime.”
International competition allows athletes to test their development and see where they stack up with the rest of the world. The soccer centric events have been selected by the club and will be available to all programs. Players will also tour nearby cities and learn from WorldStrides’ expert guides when off the field.
“We are absolutely thrilled to offer Independence Soccer Club the opportunity to travel abroad in 2023 and beyond,” said Eric McAleer, Senior Vice President of WorldStrides Sports Programs. “WorldStrides Sports has a longstanding belief that there is value within international travel. Helping the Independence community achieve their goals and take part in the development of their athletes both on and off the field is an incredible opportunity that we look forward too.”
Members will be receiving communications regarding the selected itineraries for summer 2023 as well as the dates of corresponding informational calls via PlayMetrics shortly. The informational calls will begin as early as Monday, October 24th for those seeking more information on international travel opportunities.
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ABOUT Charlotte Independence Soccer Club:
Charlotte Independence Soccer Club was formed in 2019 following the merger of Carolina Rapids, Discoveries Soccer Club and Lake Norman Soccer Club to form the Charlotte Independence Soccer Club. It is the youth affiliate club of the Charlotte Independence USL League One and USL W League teams, and one of the largest clubs in the country. The club serves communities throughout North and South Carolina with programming for players of all ages, gender, skill, and ability.
ABOUT WorldStrides Sports Programs:
Founded in 1967, WorldStrides provides educational travel and experiences to more than 530,000 students and athletes a year. Its sports division, WorldStrides Sports, was founded in 1998 by Eric McAleer, a former Scottish professional soccer player. In addition to international and domestic travel experiences for athletes, WorldStrides offers experiential learning programs in performing arts, language immersion, career exploration, service-learning, and study abroad. Each of these experiences helps students to see beyond the classroom and playing field to see the world – and themselves – in new ways. For more information on WorldStrides, visit worldstrides.com.
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May 4, 2026 - Charlotte, NC - Charlotte Independence Soccer Club is proud to announce the hiring of Ashley Williams as Director of Pre Girls Academy (Pre GA) ahead of the 2026-2027 season. In her new role, Williams will lead the club’s Pre GA program, focusing on preparing players for progression into high competitive programs while supporting their overall development both on and off the field. Williams brings extensive experience across the youth, collegiate, and pre-professional levels. She most recently served as the Girls Academy Director and U15 & U17 Head Coach at Skyline Elite Soccer Club in Charlottesville, Virginia, where she oversaw multiple teams competing in the Girls Academy Mid-Atlantic Conference while leading player and coach development initiatives. Prior to Skyline Elite, she spent two years with Richmond United as a Head Coach for U17 and U19 ECNL teams, while also serving as Operations Manager and College Recruiting Coordinator. Her experience also includes leading Richmond United Pro23 Women to a championship in 2021, along with coaching roles at North Carolina Courage, North Carolina FC Youth, and Randolph-Macon College. Williams holds a U.S. Soccer Talent Scout License Level II and was one of twelve female coaches selected nationwide for the program’s cohort, based on experience, qualifications, and alignment with its objectives. She is also currently enrolled in the Girls Academy Credential of Coaching Excellence program, further demonstrating her commitment to continued growth and development within the game. "We are thrilled to have Ashley joining our staff and working with our players and families. She is an experienced coach and director and is an even better leader. There is no doubt that our young female players will grow and develop as strong people and players under Ashley's guidance," said Director of Soccer Neil Roberts. "I’m excited to join Charlotte Independence Soccer Club and be part of a club that is clearly aligned in its vision for developing the next generation of players. Establishing a strong foundation at the younger ages is critical to the long-term success of the Girls Academy pathway, and I look forward to building an environment that is both challenging and enjoyable, one where players are pushed, supported, and able to grow with confidence," said Williams. "I’m passionate about developing well-rounded players who not only understand the game, but also embody the values and standards of the club in how they train, compete, and carry themselves on and off the field. I’m especially excited to work alongside a staff that shares a genuine commitment to player development and a collective drive to do things the right way. Having coached against John Cullen, Neil Roberts, and Greg Ashton in the past, I’ve seen firsthand the direction of the club and the strength of the girls program, and I’m excited to now contribute to its continued growth." Williams is a former collegiate student-athlete and team captain at the University of Richmond. She holds a Master’s degree in Sport Leadership from Virginia Commonwealth University and holds a USSF A-Youth License.
April 22, 2026 - Charlotte, NC - Charlotte Independence Soccer Club (CISC) is pleased to announce the addition of Angela Tucker as Mint Hill Member Services. A native of Charlotte, Tucker has been actively involved in the Mint Hill soccer community for over five years in both professional and volunteer roles. She currently serves as a Board Member for the Mint Hill Athletic Association and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Communications. Prior to her work in soccer, Tucker spent more than 15 years as a professional photographer. In her role, Tucker will support families throughout their club experience while helping connect players to the appropriate pathways within CISC. “I’m really grateful to be joining CISC because their focus on community involvement and player development is something I fully align with,” said Tucker. “I love helping families take that desire to see their player grow in soccer to the next level. As a mom of four boys, I know how hard it can be to make competitive sports work for everyone, and I truly enjoy being a partner with families in making that happen.” “When you think of someone who understands the importance of details, can see the big picture, and consistently puts in the work to keep things tracking in the right direction, you think of Angela,” said Director of Mint Hill Lowell Windon. “She always puts the interest of the players first, and we are very fortunate to have her on the team.” Tryouts will be held on April 24 at Veteran's Memorial Park for the Mint Hill location .
April 10th, 2026 - Charlotte, NC - The Charlotte Independence Soccer Club (CISC) is pleased to announce Lowell Windon as Director of Mint Hill. Lowell brings extensive experience in sports and athletic development, having played a variety of sports growing up. He discovered his passion for soccer when both of his children began playing, which led him to coaching. He has previously served as a director in competitive club soccer and earned his 11v11 Grassroots License. In addition, Lowell has been elected to the Board of Directors and currently serves as acting president of the Mint Hill Athletic Association. He also holds a Doctoral degree in Physical Therapy and is a strong believer in the multifaceted benefits of sports participation. “I am humbled and excited to be joining Charlotte Independence Soccer Club,” said Lowell. “The club is so well respected in the soccer community, and more importantly, in each local community that it operates in, and this speaks volumes to the values and approach of the organization. By joining Independence I hope to represent the club in a positive way while creating unlimited opportunities for players in Mint Hill and surrounding communities for the game that they love.” “Lowell’s experience, leadership, and commitment to player development make him an excellent fit for our club,” said Neil Roberts, Director of Soccer. “We’re excited to have him leading our Mint Hill location and look forward to the impact he will have on our players and families.” Tryouts will be held on April 24 at Veteran's Memorial Park for the Mint Hill location . You can meet Lowell and learn more about the new location at our Open House on April 15 from 6–8 PM in Room 305 at the Mint Hill Community Center, 11524 Bain School Road, Mint Hill, NC 28227.
March 31, 2026 - Independence Soccer Club is excited to announce our expansion into Mint Hill, bringing more opportunities for players and families in the community to be part of our club. This new location reflects our continued commitment to growing the game and providing high-quality programming across the region. Tryouts for the upcoming season will take place in late April and early May, and we encourage interested players to get involved. “Bringing soccer opportunities to the Mint Hill community is something we’re truly excited about,” says Thomas Finlay, CEO of Independence Soccer Club. “Over the past several years, interest has grown in having programs closer to home, from recreation to competitive and regional levels. With the right facilities now in place, we’re ready to partner with the community and provide the best possible soccer environment for kids.” Mint Hill community members interested in learning more are invited to join us for an Open House on April 15 from 6-8 PM in Room 305 at the Mint Hill Community Center, 11524 Bain School Road, Mint Hill, NC 28227. We will have a Regional Academy, State, Pre-GA/Pre-MLS, and Youth Academy programming at this location.
March 17th, 2026- Charlotte, NC - The Charlotte Independence Soccer Club (CISC) signs Matt Levy to GoalkeepingStaff. "We are extremely excited to have Matt join our staff. His experience as a player will only enhance the development of our goalkeepers at Charlotte Independence Soccer Club," said Director of Coaching – Goalkeeping Matt Brown. "His coaching style will bring out the best in our goalkeepers, and we look forward to seeing them grow under his guidance." Matt is entering his fourth season with the Charlotte Independence USL League One team. He has made 31 appearances for the Jacks since joining the club. In 2025, he stepped into the starting role for the first time, making 28 starts in all competitions and recording five clean sheets. Now Matt will use his background to help develop the next generation of goalkeepers within the youth club. We look forward to the impact he will make on the pitch and are excited to support him during the upcoming season as he also joins Jon Bakero as another First Team player contributing to the youth club.
March 11th, 2026 - Charlotte, NC - The Charlotte Independence Soccer Club (CISC) has promoted Susie Morris to Director of Soccer Operations. “I’m excited to step into the role of Director of Soccer Operations and eager to continue building on the strong foundation of our program,” said Morris. “I’m looking forward to supporting the players, coaches, and families who make our community special.” As Susie enters her new role, she will continue to serve as the Tega Cay Recreation Director, where her connection to the community runs deep. She remains committed to ensuring every player has a positive experience playing the game of soccer by supporting players, families, and volunteer coaches while helping create a welcoming environment where kids can learn, grow, and enjoy the game. “We’re excited for Susie to step into this new position at the club,” said Club CEO Thomas Finlay. “Over the past year, she has fully embraced the club’s culture and environment and has excelled in her role, helping lead the way for our members within the soccer community. This newly appointed position will allow Susie to further enhance the efficiency of our operational logistics, which ultimately improves the experience for our players on the field. Congratulations to Susie on her promotion and on continuing to serve as a leader within our club.” Morris’ involvement with the Charlotte Independence Soccer Club began four years ago as a volunteer recreation coach. A dedicated mother, she spent that time coaching all four of her children within the club’s recreation program. Today, Susie can still be seen coaching her son’s recreation team and has always had a strong passion for the sense of community that youth soccer creates.
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 February 2026 to see if it's the right fit for you! We will have three clinics offered in Huntersville and Rock Hill. 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 and Manchester Meadows are offered to ages 2-10.
Unveiling Success: A Year in Review at Charlotte Independence Soccer Club
August 5th, 2025 - Charlotte, NC - The Charlotte Independence Soccer Club (CISC) promotes Josh Fannin to Director of Gaston County (GC). “Josh is a great leader and his presence in Gaston County is strong”, Director of Soccer of Charlotte Independence Soccer Club Neil Roberts. “He has a tireless work rate, and we are confident that he will continue to build a strong tradition of growth and development in our Gaston County location.” Josh Fannin first joined Independence Soccer as a parent in 2020. After two seasons watching his son play, he deepened his involvement by stepping into a coaching role in Gaston County. This past season, he coached the Boys 2015 GC Blue Youth Academy team and the Boys 2013 GC Blue State team. Over the past two seasons, the Boys 2013 GC Blue went undefeated and captured back-to-back division titles. Marking three division championships in four seasons with Fannin leading the way. Now, as the new Director of Gaston County, Fannin is ready to take the next step in supporting local player development. “I’m excited to oversee both the Youth Academy and our competitive teams,” said Josh Fannin. “Soccer in Gaston County has seen tremendous growth over the past few years, and I look forward to continuing that momentum. Ensuring every player has a positive experience that supports their development on and off the field.” As the 2025/26 season kicks off next week, Fannin will return to the sidelines as head coach of the Boys 2013 GC State team.
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!”
