FitzGerald signs with Wilmington, Patterson and Jones play on in MLS training camps

GREENSBORO, NC – Former UNC Greensboro men’s soccer forward Michael FitzGerald has signed a contract with the Wilmington Hammerheads of the United Soccer League’s Second Division.

FitzGerald is the third player from last year’s squad to sign a professional contract for next season. Midfielder Scott Jones signed with FC Dallas after being drafted in the MLS SuperDraft with the 28th overall pick. Forward Randi Patterson was picked up by Red Bull New York in the supplemental draft. Both players are still with their respective teams playing exhibition matches. Patterson recently started a match against the University of California, while Jones came off the bench in a match to play the final 30 minutes against a team in Brazil.

Terms of FitzGerald’s contract were not released by the Hammerheads. FitzGerald returns to his hometown where he attended Hoggard HS. “It’s an honor to be given the opportunity to return to my hometown and play professional soccer in front of my family and friends,” said FitzGerald.

FitzGerald was second on the team at UNCG in goals last year and third in points. Appearing in 24 matches with 21 starts, FitzGerald recorded 10 goals and two assists for 22 points. Two of his 10 goals were game-winners. UNCG made its third straight appearance in the NCAA Tournament’s Round of 16 after sweeping the Southern Conference Regular Season and Tournament titles.

Wilmington opens the season April 21 on the road against the Harrisburg City Islanders.

- UNCG -