MADISON, Wisc. – Forward Madison FC announced on Wednesday that the club has signed 24-year-old defensive midfielder Brandon Eaton for the 2019 USL League One, pending league and federation approval.

Eaton, who most recently played for the Richmond Kickers in the USL Championship, will link up with former teammate and current Madison assistant coach Neil Hlavaty. Hlavaty, who retired this offseason after spending the 2018 campaign with the Kickers, was left impressed by the young midfielder’s determination and talent.

“I played soccer for a long time, and over the length of my career I could see how players can improve teams,” Hlavaty said. “Brandon fits that profile. He’s very coachable, able to fill a few positions for us and eager to prove himself. He’s going to improve our cohesiveness in the locker room as well.”

Eaton is naturally a holding midfielder but filled in at right back for the Kickers last season when starter Alex Lee retired midway through the campaign.

“I was able to add more to my game,” Eaton said. “I always look at myself as a hard worker on and off the ball, trying to make things happen for the team no matter what position I’m playing.”

Madison Head Coach Daryl Shore believes Eaton’s versatility makes him a valuable asset for the team.

"Brandon has experience playing in the USL Championship and we feel like he brings a competitive presence to our team,” Shore said. "He can play in multiple positions and we look forward to him giving us valuable minutes.”