Today the North Carolina FC team took the training pitch for the first time in the 2022 season from Field 6 of WakeMed Soccer Park in Cary, NC. Based on the chemistry and clear camaraderie that has already developed, you would never know that the majority of this season’s roster is new.
I saw a few familiar faces like Max Flick, Cole Frame, Nelson Martinez, Nelson Blanco Flores, Luis Arriaga, and Pecka, who did not train today. There was also an appearance by Nick Holliday who just came back from his visit to Germany.
It was so great to see this team back on the pitch. This new roster has a ton of talent, speed, and leadership.
A notable standout was defender, Jordan Skelton, an off-season signing who played for the Des Moines Menace of the USL League II last year. His leadership on the field was apparent from the open whistle—an active talker who directed his squad in small-sided drills and was always quick to engage with a wide range of teammates. He is definitely one of the players to watch this season.
Here are photos from today’s first training session.
