VANCOUVER, BC – Vancouver Whitecaps FC announced today that midfielder Ian Christianson and striker Billy Schuler have been added to the club’s inaugural Whitecaps FC 2 (WFC2) roster for the 2015 United Soccer League (USL) season. Per club policy, terms of the deals were not disclosed.

“We’re excited to add two guys with MLS experience to our roster,” said WFC2 head coach Alan Koch. “Ian and Billy are both talented players with big upsides. They will be key contributors to our squad this season."

WFC2 midfielder Ian Christianson

Spent past two seasons in MLS with New York Red Bulls

Selected 22nd overall by Red Bulls in 2013 MLS SuperDraft

14 goals and 10 assists in 77 starts at Georgetown University

Christianson, 24, comes to Vancouver after being a member of MLS side New York Red Bulls for the past two seasons. The native of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, entered as a substitute three times in MLS play and started twice for the Red Bulls in the 2014-15 CONCACAF Champions League. Christianson originally joined the Red Bulls after being selected 22nd overall in the 2013 MLS SuperDraft.

During his collegiate career, the 5-foot-11 defender/midfielder played four years at Georgetown University, including the last two as captain. His time with the Hoyas culminated with him being named First Team all-BIG EAST and Third Team All-American as he led his school to an appearance in the 2012 NCAA Division I National Championship final. In total, Christianson amassed 14 goals and 10 assists in 77 starts at Georgetown.

WFC2 striker Billy Schuler

Spent 2014 season in MLS with San Jose Earthquakes

29 goals in 79 career college games at the University of North Carolina

Represented USA at U-20 and U-17 national team levels

Schuler, 24, joins WFC2 after spending last season playing in MLS for San Jose Earthquakes. The native of Allentown, New Jersey made his Earthquakes debut in the 2013-14 CONCACAF Champions League quarterfinals in a 1-1 second leg draw against Mexican club Deportivo Toluca FC. After both teams remained tied through extra time, Schuler scored for San Jose in the penalty kick shootout before the Earthquakes ultimately fell to defeat. Schuler went on to make six appearances for San Jose during the 2014 MLS season, including one start.

Prior to joining the Quakes, Schuler played two seasons under current Columbus Crew SC head coach Gregg Berhalter with Hammarby IF in the Swedish Allsvenskan. The 5-foot-11 striker made 26 appearances for Hammarby, scoring two goals.

In his collegiate career, Schuler played at the University of North Carolina, scoring 29 goals in 79 appearances. The former Tar Heel capped off his collegiate career by winning the 2011 NCAA Division I National Championship. For his efforts, Schuler was named an NSCAA First Team All-American.

Internationally, Schuler has represented the United States at both the U-20 and U-17 levels. In 2007, the American took part in the FIFA U-17 World Cup in Korea, starting three matches and scoring in the opening game against Tajikistan.

WFC2 begin their inaugural USL season this coming Sunday, March 29 on the road at Seattle Sounders FC 2. Kickoff is set for 4 p.m. PT and will be shown live on whitecapsfc2.com.

Come and see the next generation of Whitecaps FC stars as USL arrives in Vancouver. With Season Tickets available for as low as $118, WFC2 matches will be a unique and affordable experience for fans, families, students, and supporters. Flex packs are also available to fit your schedule - get seven tickets to use any way you want, to any matches you want. For more information on all WFC2 ticket options, call 604-484-7862 or e-mail wfc2@whitecapsfc.com.

Ian Christianson

Position: Midfielder

Height: 5-11

Weight: 155

Date of Birth: March 6, 1991 in Cedar Rapids, Iowa

Hometown: Cedar Rapids, Iowa

Citizenship: United States

Status: Domestic

Last Club: New York Red Bulls (MLS)

How Acquired: WFC2 free agent signing on March 27, 2015

Billy Schuler

Position: Striker

Height: 5-11

Weight: 170

Date of Birth: April 27, 1990 in Allentown, New Jersey

Hometown: Allentown, New Jersey

Citizenship: United States

Status: Domestic

Last Club: San Jose Earthquakes (MLS)

How Acquired: WFC2 free agent signing on March 27, 2015