Super League News

Goalkeeper won U15 and U17 CONCACAF Championships

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (July 3, 2024) – Carolina Ascent Football Club announced today the addition of goalkeeper Molly Vapensky on a USL Academy Contract for the 2024/25 USL Super League season, pending league and federation approval. Vapensky is a regular starter for the U.S. Youth National Teams and one of the top-ranked goalkeepers in her class. Carolina Ascent FC will host the first-ever USL Super League match on Saturday, August 17 at American Legion Memorial Stadium. Season tickets are on sale now at CarolinaAscent.com/tickets.

“We are delighted to bring Molly to the Carolinas,” Head Coach, Philip Poole commented. “As one of the brightest young players in the nation, we feel she will be able to develop her game to even greater heights. She brings an amazing work ethic and mentality. Molly will fit in well with our team.”

Vapensky has been a consistent invitee for the U.S Youth National Teams since the U15 level. She won the 2022 CONCACAF U15 Championship, won the U16 Mondial Montaigu Football Tournament in France, and most recently won the 2024 CONCACAF U17 Championship which qualified the team for the 2024 U17 FIFA World Cup. Vapensky started four of the five games in the team’s route to the 2024 title. 

“I am so excited and thankful to be joining Carolina Ascent FC this season,” Vapensky shared. “I truly believe that Coach Poole and Carolina Ascent FC are creating something special in the Carolinas, and I am so honored to be a part of it. To be able to train and compete in a professional environment is such a unique opportunity, and I believe that it is the best path for me to continue to grow and develop my game.”

Outside of the national team landscape, Vapensky has sought out opportunities across the country for player development. She participated in 2024 NWSL preseason training with the KC Current. This summer, Vapensky competed in her hometown with Chicago City SC in the USL W League. In 2023, Vapensky won the 2023 U16 ECNL Championship with Texas-based Solar Soccer Club, one of the country’s elite youth soccer clubs. Vapensky has also received invitations for the Olympic Development Program (ODP) Inter Regionals and the United Futsal National Team Camp and Regional Team.

About Carolina Ascent FC:

Carolina Ascent FC is one of the eight initial teams of the USL Super League, a new Division One professional women’s soccer league set to kick off in August 2024. Carolina Ascent is reaching new heights for women’s soccer. Step by step the club will take strides to grow the women’s game, elevate the community and support a more sustainable future for the residents of the Carolinas. The team will play all home games at the historic American Legion Memorial Stadium. To join the climb and receive information on club news, season tickets and more, visit carolinaascent.com.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (July 2, 2024) – Carolina Ascent Football Club announced today the signing of forward Audrey Harding ahead of the 2024/25 USL Super League season, pending league and federation approval. Harding brings NWSL and European soccer experience to Head Coach Philip Poole’s squad. Carolina Ascent FC’s Inaugural Home Opener is on Saturday, August 17 at American Legion Memorial Stadium. Season tickets are on sale now at CarolinaAscent.com/tickets.

“Audrey is a player I have kept my eye on throughout college and her professional career. Having witnessed her score goals firsthand, I am confident that she will be an asset to our attack in the Carolinas. Audrey creates dangerous chances and is a clinical finisher. She can play up front in different ways and provides us options to play in multiple formations. I have enjoyed getting to know Audrey and look forward to seeing her represent Carolina Ascent FC this season.”

Ahead of the 2023 season, Harding signed with KIF Örebro DFF in the premier Swedish division, the OBOS Damallsvenskan. Harding was a major contributor in league and domestic cup play, scoring goals across all competitions, including goals in back-to-back matches in May.

“I am super excited to be joining the climb with Carolina Ascent FC,” Harding expressed. “I’ve been eager to get back to the Carolinas since my college career, and I couldn’t think of a better time, team, and coaching staff to do so with. I cannot wait to get this season kicked off in less than 50 days and make history together as the newest women’s professional sports team in Charlotte. I hope the Carolinas and our fans are ready for an amazing inaugural season because I am!” 

After college, Harding was selected as the No. 38 pick in the 2021 NWSL Draft by the Washington Spirit and signed her first professional contract. She was only the second player from UNC Wilmington to be drafted in the NWSL. Harding made her professional debut on May 1, 2022, in the Spirit’s win over OL Reign. 

Harding’s impressive collegiate career landed her in the record books at UNC Wilmington with 23 goals and 66 points. She is one of only three players in program history to tally 20 career goals and 20 career assists. Her assists mark is tied for the program-lead. Harding became the first UNC Wilmington women’s soccer player to earn United Soccer Coaches Scholar All-American accolades in 2021.

About Carolina Ascent FC:

Carolina Ascent FC is one of the eight initial teams of the USL Super League, a new Division One professional women’s soccer league set to kick off in August 2024. Carolina Ascent is reaching new heights for women’s soccer. Step by step the club will take strides to grow the women’s game, elevate the community and support a more sustainable future for the residents of the Carolinas. The team will play all home games at the historic American Legion Memorial Stadium. To join the climb and receive information on club news, season tickets and more, visit carolinaascent.com.

Midfielder captained her side in the UEFA Champions League

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (July 2, 2024) – Carolina Ascent Football Club announced today the signing of midfielder Sarah Troccoli for the 2024/25 USL Super League season, pending league and federation approval. Troccoli is a proven winner and has extensive experience at the highest levels of European soccer. Carolina Ascent FC’s Inaugural Home Opener is on Saturday, August 17 at American Legion Memorial Stadium. Season tickets are on sale now at CarolinaAscent.com/tickets.

“We got the chance to see Sarah play twice in person and felt she would bring a very unique skill set to the team,” Head Coach Philip Poole said. “Sarah provides experience to our group in the locker room and on the field. Having spent the majority of her career in Europe, she sees the game differently than most. We are delighted to bring her back to the States to represent Carolina Ascent FC.”

Most recently, Troccoli spent three seasons with Åland United in the premier Finnish division, the Kansallinen Liiga. There, Troccoli won three league bronze medals and two Finnish Cup titles while also competing in the UEFA Women’s Champions League. The midfielder captained her squad for two seasons. In total, Troccoli played 3,744 minutes in 48 matches, starting 44 games and scoring 12 goals.

“After playing overseas for the entirety of my professional career, I am so excited to have the opportunity to play in the USL,” Troccoli shared. “It’s so cool to be a part of growing our sport in the U.S. and providing more opportunities for people to follow the women’s game. Carolina Ascent FC is a special place to be with the staff and players, and I can’t wait to make the Carolinas proud.”

Troccoli’s professional soccer career began in the Reto Iberdrola in Spain for Racing Santander during the 2019-20 season. 

A four-year Florida Gator, Troccoli played in every single match of the 2015-18 seasons and served as co-captain during her final season in Gainesville. She totaled 5,079 minutes, logging 13 goals and 12 assists, including five goals and four assists in postseason play. Troccoli helped the Gators win two SEC Tournament championships and one SEC Regular Season title. 

Originally from Troy, Michigan, Troccoli was named a 2014 National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA) Regional High School All-American. From 2008-12, Trocolli was a member of the Michigan Olympic Development Program (ODP) and was part of the 2012 ODP Region II Championship team. 

About Carolina Ascent FC:

Carolina Ascent FC is one of the eight initial teams of the USL Super League, a new Division One professional women’s soccer league set to kick off in August 2024. Carolina Ascent is reaching new heights for women’s soccer. Step by step the club will take strides to grow the women’s game, elevate the community and support a more sustainable future for the residents of the Carolinas. The team will play all home games at the historic American Legion Memorial Stadium. To join the climb and receive information on club news, season tickets and more, visit carolinaascent.com.

Renée Guion returns stateside from Fortuna Hjørring; Josie Studer inks first professional contract

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (July 1, 2024) – Carolina Ascent Football Club announced today the signing of two local defenders, Renée Guion and Josie Studer, for the 2024/25 USL Super League season, pending league and federation approval. Both players featured for the Carolina Ascent FC USL W League team this summer in preparation for the inaugural Super League season. 

Carolina Ascent FC’s Inaugural Home Opener is on Saturday, August 17 at American Legion Memorial Stadium. Season tickets are on sale now at CarolinaAscent.com/tickets.

RENÉE GUION

Guion, originally from Simpsonville, South Carolina, spent two seasons with Fortuna Hjørring in the premier women’s division in Denmark. From the backline, she recorded one goal and one assist in the Danish Women’s Cup as Fortuna Hjørring finished runners-up. Across parts of two seasons, Guion totaled 1,514 minutes in 21 appearances, scoring four goals, in the Kvindeliga. 

“As a staff, we started to track Renée very early in our recruitment process,” Head Coach Philip Poole explained. “Renée can be physically dominant, is experienced, can play in multiple positions and shows the willingness to improve. I love the fact that she was born and bred in the Carolinas. I know she will love to play in front of our fans.” 

In 2022, Guion signed her first professional contract with FC Gintra in Lithuania. She went on to score her first professional goal in the club’s 6-0 win over FK Banga. Guion and FC Gintra won the Lithuanian Women’s A League, earning automatic qualification into the UEFA Women’s Champions League. During the same season, Guion competed in and won the Women’s Baltic Football League with FC Gintra. 

“I am thrilled to continue my professional career back home in the states with Carolina Ascent FC,” Guion said. “It is an honor to be a part of a club and league that are working to grow women’s professional soccer in the US. I am beyond grateful that the coaching staff has given me the opportunity to participate in this inaugural season. I can’t wait to experience the high energy and excitement the Carolina Ascent fans will bring to this season.”

A four-year Tiger, Guion was an integral part of the Clemson University women’s soccer program for her entire collegiate career. She captained the team, earned All-ACC Third Team honors, was named the Tiger Newcomer Award winner as a freshman, and etched her name in the program record book for individual and team achievements. As a senior, Guion tied the program record for most assists in a single season with 13 and tied the program record for the second time in her career for most assists in a match with four against College of Charleston. Guion was crucial in Clemson’s efforts to earn the program’s first-ever perfect home record across the 2020/21 season.

JOSIE STUDER

After five stellar seasons at Louisiana Tech, Studer returns to the Carolinas on her first professional contract. Studer earned All-Conference USA honors all five years she played for the Bulldogs. She finished her career at LA Tech ranked fourth in program history in games started with 73 and second all-time with 6,678 minutes played.

“This is a special one for me,” Poole commented. “I have known Josie for a long time. I have literally watched her career develop to this point. Josie is the kind of person you want on your team and in your locker room. Josie offers us versatility in attacking and defending parts of the game. She will impact our group on and off the field.” 

Additional accolades on Studer’s résumé include 2023 Conference USA Preseason Defender of the Year, 2020/21 United Soccer Coaches All-South Region recognition, 2023 Conference USA All-Tournament team selection, and two All-Louisiana Honorable Mentions. As a junior, Studer was tied for the team-lead with nine points and four goals, tying the program record for most goals by a defender. At the conclusion of her five seasons, Studer totaled seven goals and three assists from the backline, including three game-winning goals.

“Being able to come back home and play with Carolina Ascent FC where it all started means everything to me,” Studer expressed. “I am elated to work with our talented players and staff, and I am so eager to meet fans and be part of this community. I am ready to make history for the Carolinas. It’s time to climb!

Originally from Waxhaw, North Carolina, Studer played for the Charlotte Soccer Academy U.S. Soccer Development Academy team. She won the 2016 North Carolina Open Cup State Championship. From 2012-17, Studer was a member of the Olympic Development Program (ODP) and Region 3 pool player. 

About Carolina Ascent FC:

Carolina Ascent FC is one of the eight initial teams of the USL Super League, a new Division One professional women’s soccer league set to kick off in August 2024. Carolina Ascent is reaching new heights for women’s soccer. Step by step the club will take strides to grow the women’s game, elevate the community and support a more sustainable future for the residents of the Carolinas. The team will play all home games at the historic American Legion Memorial Stadium. To join the climb and receive information on club news, season tickets and more, visit carolinaascent.com.

Beard brings six years of professional soccer experience from UEFA Champions League and UEFA international competitions

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (June 28, 2024) – Carolina Ascent Football Club announced today the signing of midfielder Eli Beard ahead of the club’s 2024/25 USL Super League Season, pending league and federation approval. Carolina Ascent FC’s Inaugural Home Opener is on Saturday, August 17 at American Legion Memorial Stadium. Season tickets are on sale now at CarolinaAscent.com/tickets.

“Eli brings so much quality to the Carolinas,” Head Coach Philip Poole explained. “Her experience at both the club and international levels will give us a highly dynamic player whose technical ability will thrive here. I enjoy Eli’s energy and the positivity she shares. As a staff, we can’t wait to get her here as we race towards pre-season.”

Beard has competed at the international level representing the Israel Women’s National Team. This year, Beard was rostered for UEFA Women’s Euro Qualification matches, starting four contests against Slovakia, Serbia, and Scotland. In 2023, she also played in a trio of UEFA Women’s Nations League matches.

“I’m excited to join Carolina Ascent FC and play under Coach Poole and his outstanding staff,” Beard shared. “After many years of playing overseas, returning to the States and playing close to home is an incredible opportunity. Carolina Ascent is building something special, and I’m honored to be a part of it. I can’t wait to get to Charlotte and get to work!”

Beard ventures back to the United States from Iceland where she most recently played for Keflavík ÍF in the Besta Deild Kvenna, the premier Icelandic women’s soccer league.

Much of Beard’s professional career was spent playing in Israel. During the 2021/22 and 2022/23 seasons, Beard competed with FC Kiryat Gat, at Israel’s highest level of women’s professional soccer, where she won two Ligat Al titles, qualifying the club for the UEFA Champions League. 

During the 2021/22 season, Beard scored the game-winning goal in the Israeli National Cup final and helped her side win its third championship of the year, the Athena Cup.

Between seasons with WFC Ramat Hasharon and Maccabi Holon in Israel, Beard joined Ungmennafélag Grindavíkur for the 2021 summer portion of the Icelandic season. 

Beard competed in the UEFA Champions League in her first professional season with Khazakhstanian side, BIIK Kazygurt, in 2018.

Collegiately, Beard played for Marquette University from 2014-2017. She capped off her time with the Golden Eagles as a member of the 2017 All-BIG EAST Championship Team and recorded 66 all-time appearances, seven goals, and five assists. 

About Carolina Ascent FC:

Carolina Ascent FC is one of the eight initial teams of the USL Super League, a new Division One professional women’s soccer league set to kick off in August 2024. Carolina Ascent is reaching new heights for women’s soccer. Step by step the club will take strides to grow the women’s game, elevate the community and support a more sustainable future for the residents of the Carolinas. The team will play all home games at the historic American Legion Memorial Stadium. To join the climb and receive information on club news, season tickets and more, visit carolinaascent.com.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (June 27, 2024) – Carolina Ascent Football Club announced today the signing of goalkeeper Charlotte Burge for the 2024/25 USL Super League season, pending league and federation approval. At 18-years-old, Burge is the youngest women’s professional goalkeeper in the United States. Carolina Ascent FC will host the first-ever USL Super League match on Saturday, August 17 at American Legion Memorial Stadium. Season tickets are on sale now at CarolinaAscent.com/tickets.

“Charlotte is a high potential young player who is going to have a long career ahead of her,” Head Coach, Philip Poole said. “We have been deliberate in identifying elite young players who we see have the potential to achieve great things. I am really excited to watch Charlotte’s journey unfold. As the youngest women’s professional goalkeeper in the United States, I know she will embrace that tag and be up for the challenge.”

Earlier this year, Burge was invited to preseason training with the newest NWSL club, Bay FC. Burge took a big step in her career by relocating to Germany to play with 1.FFC Kaisterslautern in 2023.

“I am very excited to join Carolina Ascent FC in the inaugural season of the USL Super League,” Burge expressed. “My dream of playing professional soccer in the United States has turned into reality. I couldn’t be more grateful to join the group of players that Coach Poole and the entire Carolina Ascent FC staff have pulled together. I can’t wait to join the climb!”

A native of Virginia Beach, Virginia, Burge trained with USL League Two side, Virginia Beach United, for many summers. Burge has also attended a plethora of U.S. Youth National Team Identification Camps. 

At the high school and club levels, Burge proved to be nearly impossible to beat. She averaged .513 goals allowed per game and posted a 90% save percentage with First Colonial High School. Burge primarily played with a boys team during her 15 years with Virginia Rush Soccer Club, posting many shutouts, and led her team to a tournament title without allowing a single goal. In 2023, Burge was named to the ECNL All-Region Team and was also selected as Player of the Match for an ECNL Selection game.

About Carolina Ascent FC:

Carolina Ascent FC is one of the eight initial teams of the USL Super League, a new Division One professional women’s soccer league set to kick off in August 2024. Carolina Ascent is reaching new heights for women’s soccer. Step by step the club will take strides to grow the women’s game, elevate the community and support a more sustainable future for the residents of the Carolinas. The team will play all home games at the historic American Legion Memorial Stadium. To join the climb and receive information on club news, season tickets and more, visit carolinaascent.com.

Spitzer recruited for U.S. Identification Camp and U.S. Youth National Team Training Camp in 2024

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (June 21, 2024) – Carolina Ascent FC secured a pivotal signing with young forward, Stella Spitzer, on a USL Academy Contract for the 2024/25 USL Super League season, pending league and federation approval. Spitzer, celebrated as a rising star, will relocate with her family from Texas to Charlotte to join Head Coach Philip Poole’s dynamic squad. Carolina Ascent FC will host the first-ever USL Super League match on Saturday, August 17 at American Legion Memorial Stadium. Season tickets are on sale now at CarolinaAscent.com/tickets.

“Aside from her exceptional skills on the field, Stella’s dedication and maturity are beyond her years,” Poole said. “She’s a perfect fit for our ambitious vision at Carolina Ascent FC.”

Spitzer, who made waves playing with Sioux Falls City FC in the WPSL this season, brings a formidable track record, earning starts alongside seasoned college soccer players. Her performances have led to invitations to the U.S. U14 Identification Camp and the U.S. U-14 Youth National Team training camp in 2024. She has also been named to the 2024 Olympic Development Program (ODP) National Team.

“Carolina Ascent FC is creating a crucial pathway for the development of women’s soccer, and I am very excited to be a part of that,” Spitzer expressed. “Coach Poole and Carolina Ascent FC have built a team of players and coaches that is unmatched in women’s professional soccer, and I am grateful to be able to learn and grow under them.”

Originally from Lewis Center, Ohio, Spitzer moved to Dallas, Texas, to elevate her game with a premier youth program, guiding Solar Soccer Club to the 2023 ECNL National Playoffs. Under the leadership of former U.S. Men’s National Team star Eddie Johnson, she has emerged as a standout talent. 

About Carolina Ascent FC:

Carolina Ascent FC is one of the eight initial teams of the USL Super League, a new Division One professional women’s soccer league set to kick off in August 2024. Carolina Ascent is reaching new heights for women’s soccer. Step by step the club will take strides to grow the women’s game, elevate the community and support a more sustainable future for the residents of the Carolinas. The team will play all home games at the historic American Legion Memorial Stadium. To join the climb and receive information on club news, season tickets and more, visit carolinaascent.com.

Former U.S. Youth National Team and ACC standout performer next to join the climb

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (June 19, 2024) – Carolina Ascent Football Club announced today the signing of midfielder Giovanna DeMarco for the 2024/25 USL Super League season, pending league and federation approval. Carolina Ascent FC will host the first-ever USL Super League match on Saturday, August 17 at American Legion Memorial Stadium. Season tickets are on sale now at CarolinaAscent.com/tickets.

“Giovanna is an important signing for us as we launch into our first season,” Head Coach Philip Poole explained. “G’s mentality and versatility are key attributes that will allow her to impact games. She is a true midfielder in every sense; she scores goals, creates goals, is physically strong, wins tackles, and is prepared to stand up and fight for her team. I believe Giovanna’s best days are ahead of her, and we will benefit from her time as a young professional with the San Diego Wave and NC Courage.” 

Earlier this month, DeMarco competed with NC Courage in The Soccer Tournament (TST), a 7v7 winner-take-all tournament in Cary, North Carolina. NC Courage reached the first-ever Women’s Championship match. DeMarco earned a spot on the Courage’s TST roster following a stellar showing in 2024 NWSL preseason training. 

“I am incredibly excited to be a part of the inaugural season with Carolina Ascent FC,” DeMarco commented. “The opportunity to play for such a promising and ambitious club under a great head coach is truly a privilege. I can’t wait to get to work and look forward to seeing this team’s success as we embark on this climb together!” 

The 45th overall selection in the 2023 NWSL Draft, DeMarco signed her first professional contract with the San Diego Wave, where she won the 2023 NWSL Shield, after a five-year collegiate career at Wake Forest University.

While at Wake Forest, DeMarco tallied 29 career points, recording 11 goals and seven assists, including four game winners. She served as team captain for her final three seasons with the Demon Deacons and accumulated 74 appearances with 69 starts. DeMarco earned a spot on the All-ACC Freshman Team in 2018.

DeMarco was a member of the U18 and U19 U.S. Youth National Teams. She participated in the 2018 La Manga 12 Nations Tournament and was called up for multiple training camps. DeMarco attended the 2013 US Youth Olympic Development National Training Camp, representing the Pennsylvania ODP. 

About Carolina Ascent FC:

Carolina Ascent FC is one of the eight initial teams of the USL Super League, a new Division One professional women’s soccer league set to kick off in August 2024. Carolina Ascent is reaching new heights for women’s soccer. Step by step the club will take strides to grow the women’s game, elevate the community and support a more sustainable future for the residents of the Carolinas. The team will play all home games at the historic American Legion Memorial Stadium. To join the climb and receive information on club news, season tickets and more, visit carolinaascent.com.