SAN ANTONIO – San Antonio FC announced on Tuesday midfielder and joint top-scorer Rafa Castillo will return for the 2017 USL season. Per club policy, terms of the contract were not disclosed.

Castillo appeared in 28 of the club’s 30 USL matches in 2016, starting 25 and ranking third on the team with 2,284 total minutes played. Castillo was tied with forward Franck Tayou for the club lead in goals (5) and also recorded two assists, 67 shots and 28 shots on goal. His 67 shots were tied for seventh in the USL and ranked third in the Western Conference. Castillo captained the side 10 times in USL play, becoming the first choice captain after an injury to goalkeeper Josh Ford in August.

Castillo also played in and started one U.S. Open Cup match in 2016, tallying 90 minutes played in a loss to the Houston Dynamo in the fourth round.

“We are pleased to have Rafa back for the 2017 season,” said SAFC Head Coach Darren Powell. “His experience and daily dedication are key for us as we look to improve in 2017. He connects well with players, staff and fans alike, and we look forward to getting started in February.”