Charlotte N.C. — The Charlotte Independence have re-signed veteran forward Jorge Herrera, pending federation approval, bringing back the United Soccer League’s (USL) second all-time leading goal scorer. In 2015, Herrera was the first player signed in Charlotte Independence history and has remained with the club since.

“I feel very blessed to be a part of the team again,” said Herrera. “I'm very thankful for the opportunity to play one more year.”

UPCOMING EVENT: 2018 CHARLOTTE INDEPENDENCE WINTER CUP

Herrera hit several career milestones last season including the franchise’s first, and his first career hat-trick. He surpassed the 50-goal mark in the USL regular season for his career, becoming only the second player in league history to do so. During the month of July, an eight-goal, two-assist performance spurred the Independence to an undefeated 5-0-2 recorded and resulted in Herrera being named USL Player of the Month.

“It was a great season, personally, and as a team,” said the 37 year-old, Herrera. “Now that we're in a break, you kind of look back and you can enjoy those little moments a little better. Although we wanted to go farther as a team, but now as time passes, those are things are going to be great memories.”

“We are delighted to have Jorge for another season,” said Independence Head Coach Mike Jeffries. “His soccer acumen and ability in front of goal only increase with time; his dedication and concentration on fitness have kept him at a remarkable level throughout his career. I look forward to seeing the smile Jorge brings every day to training before watching him school the younger guys day in and day out.”

In 24 starts last season, Herrera recorded 2,002 minutes played with five assists and 12 goals scored, which was second-best on the team and tied for eleventh best in the league. In three season with the Independence, Herrera ranks second in the franchise record books with both 23 goals scored and 14 assists.

Independence fans are encouraged to welcome Herrera back to the squad during an autograph session on Saturday, January 20th from 11:00AM to 1:00PM at the Sportsplex at Matthews during the 2018 Charlotte Independence Winter Cup presented by Coerver Coaching. 2018 Season Members will be able to pick up their Jorge Herrera bobbleheads, or new members can purchase their bobbleheads during the same period.

The Independence roster now sits at four players under contract with three returning and Callum Ross signing with Oklahoma City Energy FC. Additional players are slated to be announced next week. In other re-signing news, earlier this week, Queen City Soccer LLC extended their partnership wit Novant Health as the presenting sponsor.