San Antonio FC re-signed defender Stephen McCarthy for the 2018 USL season pending USL and federation approval, the club announced today. Per club policy, terms of the contract were not disclosed.

McCarthy’s 4,103 minutes played in all competitions for SAFC rank second on the club since its inception. Over the course of the 2017 USL season, he appeared in 26 matches, making 23 starts and playing 2,142 minutes, which ranked fourth on the club. McCarthy ranked second on the team with 111 clearances, 14 blocks and 47 aerial duels won, while ranking third in interceptions (46). The 29-year-old also added one goal – which came in game-winning fashion on Sept. 2 at Real Monarchs SLC – along with recording six total shots and four shots on target. In two playoff matches, McCarthy played all 210 minutes, recording 14 clearances, six interceptions and two tackles.

“We’re really excited to have Stephen return in 2018,” said SAFC Head Coach Darren Powell. “Last year was a big year for him, he became an integral part of the team and his dedication and professionalism were evident every day. He’s earned the opportunity to help lead this team this season.”

Overall in his two seasons with SAFC, McCarthy has made 45 USL appearances, making 42 starts and playing in 3,713 minutes. He has added three goals and an assist along with two Open Cup appearances over the course of the last two years. McCarthy started in each of his 19 USL appearances for San Antonio FC last in 2016, compiling 1,571 total minutes, and playing at least 80 minutes in 16 of his 19 starts. McCarthy missed the final eight league matches for in 2016 due to an arm injury the defender suffered in August.

McCarthy joined San Antonio prior to the 2016 season after spending the 2015 campaign with Finnish first division side Kuopion Palloseura (KuPS). McCarthy was originally drafted by the New England Revolution (MLS) in the second round (24th overall) of the 2011 MLS SuperDraft. The defender went on to make 69 appearances from 2011-14 with the Revs, scoring two goals, and being named the Revolution’s Defender of the Year in 2012.

“I am excited to continue to represent my home state and the city of San Antonio with SAFC,” said McCarthy. “We made a lot of progress from season one to season two in 2017, and I look forward to joining up with the players and coaches to continue that improvement in 2018.”

The 6-4 center-back attended and played soccer for both Santa Clara University and the University of North Carolina. McCarthy was also a member of PDL clubs DFW Tornados in 2009 and Carolina Dynamo in 2010. The Texas native was a member of the United States U-18 squad that traveled to Brazil for the 2007 Pan-American Games. McCarthy made three appearances and scored one goal in the tournament.

San Antonio FC is currently preparing for the upcoming USL season, and fans can purchase 2018 season tickets by calling the SAFC sales office at 210-444-5MLS or by visiting SanAntonioFC.com. Supporters can also follow the club by liking San Antonio FC on Facebook, as well as following the team on Twitter (@SanAntonioFC), Instagram (@sanantoniofc) and Snapchat (SanAntonioFC).