CARY, N.C. (Jan. 25, 2018) – North Carolina FC continues to build its championship-caliber roster with the acquisition of versatile midfielder/forward Wuilito Fernandes. The Cape Verde native will join NCFC for the 2018 season pending league and federation approval.



“Fernandes has tremendous versatility,” said NCFC Head Coach Colin Clarke. “He has played as a center back and center forward in his short professional career. He had a good start to his career in Orange County last season and we feel he’s ready to step in and do great things for us.”



“I am truly grateful for the opportunity with NCFC,” said Fernandes. “It excites me to know that I'm part of this family, and I can't wait to meet my new members of this family and accomplish great things together”.



Born in Praia, Cape Verde, Fernandes joins the club after spending the 2017 season with Orange County SC of the USL.



A versatile player who can play defense, midfield and forward, Fernandes arrived in the United States in 2009 having spent time with Bairro FC in his native country. He played his college career at the University of Massachusetts – Lowell.



At UMass Lowell he made 50 starts in 65 games played tallying 25 goals and 10 assists to rank eighth all-time in goals and total scoring. In 2016 he was also named a MAC Hermann Semifinalist and earned NSCAA First Team All-America as well as 2016 America East Striker of the Year honors.



Following his collegiate career, Fernandes was selected 62nd overall in the Third Round of the 2017 MLS SuperDraft by FC Dallas. In April of 2017, he signed with Orange County SC where he appeared in 25 games recording three goals and three assists.



Fernandes has also caught the eye of his native Cape Verde national team coaches as he made three appearances for the senior team in 2017.



North Carolina FC season tickets are now on sale and feature the newest membership benefit – Beer for the Year. Fans who opt in to the added membership bonus by March 1 will receive one free Lonerider North Carolina Football Club Captain’s Ale at every regular-season home match for no added cost. To purchase season tickets, sign up for Beer for the Year or ask questions regarding the home opener, please call the North Carolina FC office at 919-459-8144 to speak with a ticket representative. For more information about the club, visit NorthCarolinaFC.com.



Player Profile:

Name: Wuilito Fernandes

Position: Midfielder/Forward

Birthdate: 3/23/1990 (Age 27)

Hometown: Praia, Cape Verde

Height: 6’0

Weight: 180 lbs

Citizenship: Cape Verde

Previous Club: Orange County SC

Transaction: North Carolina FC has signed Wuilito Fernandes.