Wilmington Hammerheads FC wrapped up its first full weekend of tryouts at Cape Fear Regional Soccer Park on Sunday, and is now 27 days away from their preseason opener against UNC-Chapel Hill on February 28.
The local pro soccer club will hold two more open tryouts over the next several weeks. Their combine in Carlstadt, New Jersey, on Feb. 6-7, is full. Wilmington General Manager Jason Arnold and first-year Head Coach Mark Briggs continue to piece together the club and have signed forward Bryce Taylor to the 2016 USL regular season roster.
Taylor began his professional career with the Hammerheads in 2012, when he was a Rookie of the Year finalist. During his two seasons in the Port City, Taylor had 46 appearances and six goals. Last season, Taylor played for the Austin Aztex.
“I am very excited to be making my return back to Wilmington for the 2016 season,” said Taylor. “I am really looking forward to playing under Coach [Mark] Briggs this season. He was a major part of both the team’s and my success in our run to the championship in 2012. For this upcoming season my expectations are no less than a championship. I cannot wait to get the season rolling and am looking forward to bringing back the past success for both the team and myself.”
Taylor joins six other returning players from last season, including Justin Moose, Zav Taublieb, Tom Parratt, Stefan Defregger, Will Heaney and Qudus Lawal.
“Bryce is a former player who I saw a lot of potential in a few years ago,” said Briggs. “I don’t believe he has been in the right setting to fulfill that potential and I am excited to bring Bryce back to Wilmington. I see him being an integral part of the squad this year and contributing in a number of ways.”
Wilmington Hammerheads FC will hold their final open tryout at Cape Fear Regional Soccer Park on Feb. 20-21.
