“This partnership marks a significant milestone in our collective efforts to promote and enhance the beautiful game we all love. With shared values of excellence, sportsmanship, and community engagement, Carolina Referee Org (CRO) and Charlotte Independence Soccer Club are joining forces to elevate the standards of officiating and ensure an even more enjoyable and fair playing experience for all”, said Founder & Executive Director of CRO, Kevin Broadley. “CRO has led the way in recruitment, retention, training, and education of referees across the Carolina Region much like the development of the Pathway to Pro developed by the Charlotte Independence Soccer Club, CRO has a similar model to identify, develop and promote referees from the grassroots level through to the collegiate and professional ranks. The roll out of this partnership has already begun with enhancements to the internal structures of the club and we are extremely excited to begin introducing the many ways in which our organizations will be working together to enhance and support players, coaches, parents, and referees across our area”.
Charlotte Independence Soccer Club Partners with Carolina Referee Organization (CRO)
July 25, 2023
Revolutionizing the referee experience within youth soccer.
Charlotte, NC (July 25, 2023) - The Charlotte Independence Soccer Club (CISC) is partnering with Carolina Referee Organization (CRO), the top referee organization in North Carolina.
“We look forward to this industry leading journey with CRO”, said Chief Executive Officer Thomas Finlay. “Referees are an integral part of soccer and our community. Many of our youth players have dedicated time to becoming a referee, and now access to top-of-the-line resources to create an impactful educational experience. This includes working closely with our staff and providing them with programs to understand the continued evolution of soccer. Special recognition needs to be given to Jason Strange, Director of Operations North for being the architect behind this partnership”.
CRO brings educational programs, development, and training to CISC staff and those looking to establish themselves as a referee. During competition there will be a designated official who is responsible for analyzing and providing feedback to referees officiating matches. Thus ensuring games are well managed and referees are gaining valuable feedback to aid in their development.
“It was great Collaborating with Kevin on getting this terrific new partnership finalized”, said Director of Operations North Jason Strange. “ We want to provide the best experiences for our staff, players, and clubs participating at our tournaments and facilities. With CRO, the quality, efficiency, and character has improved and will only continue to get better as we move forward.”
When new rules are implemented, Charlotte Independence Soccer Club staff will be the first to know. Open communication between CISC staff and CRO will provide an opportunity to better understand the evolving game.
To learn more about CRO please visit https://www.croreferees.com.
For those interested in becoming a referee, opportunities will be shared soon.
Share this on
April 17th, 2025 - Charlotte, NC - Charlotte Independence Soccer Club (CISC) promotes Brian Udy to Director of Boys Regional Academy South. “I am very excited to accept the Director Boys Regional Academy South position,” said Brian Udy. I look forward to playing a larger role for Charlotte Independence Soccer Club as we migrate to MLS NEXT and the National Premier League, and all that goes with making such a great move for our players and their development.” Brian joined Independence Soccer back in 2024 where he started to make an impact within the Boys York County Youth Academy. During the 2024/2025 season, he coached the 2025 the York County Youth Academy and the 2015 York County Blue. Brian was also involved with the Boys 2011 ECNL Regional South team, which will be rebranded as the Boys Regional Academy South program starting this fall. “Brian has been exceptional on and off the field since he started with us. He is a strong professional who is dedicated to player development and really takes the time to make sure his players and families enjoy their experience at our club,” said Charlotte Independence Soccer Club Director of Soccer Neil Roberts. “I am very confident that he will lead the Boys Regional Academy South in a very positive and productive manner. We are excited to benefit from Brian’s leadership!” The Boys Regional Academy South program will participate in the National Premier League (NPL). The leagues schedule benefits Independence Soccer players who live in South Carolina. Players will now be able to participate in High School Soccer without conflict from club soccer. More information regarding the Boys Regional Academy South can be found below.
Monday, April 14, 2025 - Charlotte, NC - Charlotte Independence Soccer Club is thrilled to announce the expansion of the Youth Academy program to the Town of Tega Cay. Expanding our Youth Academy into Tega Cay is an exciting step for our program and for all wonderful players and families in that area," said Director of Youth Academy Mike Barroquerio. "With a deeply rooted soccer community, Tega Cay and the Charlotte Independence Soccer Club Youth Academy is sure to be an incredible partnership. We’re excited to grow new relationships with all our friends in Tega Cay.” The Youth Academy is the initial step into the Player Pathway towards our State, Regional, and National Competitive Programs. Players learn to develop technical and tactical skills with professional coaches while creating those lasting friendships throughout the season. To learn more about the program, make sure to click the button below.
April 10th, 2025 - Charlotte, NC - The Charlotte Independence Soccer Club (CISC) promotes Mike Barroqueiro to Director of Youth Academy. In his new role, Mike will also continue serving as the Director of Mooresville. “ I am extremely pleased Mike will lead the Youth Academy Program,” said John Tart. “Mike demonstrates all the qualities necessary to grow the program and to create a wonderful environment for our players, parents and coaches. He will communicate a strong vision that will enhance the YA Program and the further development of our young players! ” Since joining the club two years ago, Mike has overseen the growth and development of the Mooresville soccer programs, which include recreational, youth academy, state and regional levels. As Director of Mooresville, Mike took the initiative to introduce soccer to new players through current club programing such as Soccer is Fun Clinics and Youth Academy Experience Days. The increased participation across all programs is a testament to Mike’s ongoing commitment and dedication to the Mooresville families and community.
April 10th, 2025 - Charlotte, NC – Charlotte Independence Soccer Club (CISC) and the entire Independence community extend our deepest thanks to John Tart for his unwavering commitment to our players and the club over the past 17 years, as he enters retirement following the 2024–2025 season
April 4 th - Charlotte, NC - The Charlotte Independence Soccer Club (CISC) promotes Ciara Barnes to Director of Girls Regional Academy South. “Providing the best soccer experience is essential to a player’s development,” said Ciara Barnes. “The relationships I’ve built with our York County families have prepared me for success in this new role. I look forward in supporting our players in South as we embark on this new journey, joining the Girls Academy Aspire League for its inaugural season this fall. It’s time to get to work, and I couldn’t be more excited for the future of girls’ soccer!” Ciara has been with the club going on eight years, contributing to the Girls ECNL Regional League South program. As the program prepares to brand as the Girls Regional Academy South, it looks forward to joining the Girls Academy Aspire League this fall. During the 2024/2025 season, Ciara coached the 2011 and 2012 Girls Regional Academy South teams while also assisting with the Girls York County Youth Academy. Additionally, she is dedicated to making an impact through TOPSoccer, a program supporting players with disabilities. “ We are excited to have Ciara take on a leadership role at the club. Her knowledge of the game and connection with the players and families in our Girls Regional Academy South is deep rooted and strong,” said Director of Soccer Neil Roberts. “I am very confident that she will extend the growth and opportunities for our players as we head into an exciting season with the Girls Academy Aspire program. ” ID Sessions for the Girls Regional Academy South will be taking place Wednesday, April 9 th at Manchester Meadows. Players born between 2009-2013 are welcome to join. Click the button below to learn more information regarding ID Sessions or the Girls Regional League South program.
Monday, March 31, 2025 - Charlotte, NC - Charlotte Independence Soccer Club is thrilled to join the Girls Academy's ASPIRE program, a new competitive platform designed to elevate player development and club progression. The club looks forward to leveraging ASPIRE's performance-driven model to provide emerging talent with the opportunity to compete at the highest level, ensuring a seamless pathway to top-tier soccer. This partnership promises to strengthen both individual player growth and the club's long-term success.
March 26 th - Charlotte, NC - The Charlotte Independence Soccer Club (CISC) announces a new partnership with Nucor Corporation, the largest steel producer and largest recycler in North America. Headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, Nucor will be a primary presenting sponsor on new uniforms starting for the 2025-2026 competitive season and additional youth programming. “Strategic partnerships are essential to realizing our vision of providing exceptional experiences for our members,” said Charlotte Independence Soccer Club CEO Thomas Finlay. “While Nucor and our organization may operate in different industries, our missions align closely as industry leaders committed to making a positive impact. We're thrilled to partner with Nucor, while we look toward a future where we can continue to empower and uplift the children and communities, we serve together.” The evening with Nucor included Independence recreation soccer games, creating a vibrant atmosphere as parents cheered from the sidelines while the children enjoyed the game with their teammates. Following the matches, families came together for a special presentation ceremony, joined by Independence competitive players who showed their continued support for the community. During the event, attendees watched as Nucor representatives helped unveil the new uniforms. “At Nucor, we are committed to partnering with organizations to improve the quality of life in the communities where we live and work. Last year, we partnered with the Charlotte Independence to sponsor the Carolina Ascent, and we are proud to build on that partnership with our support of their youth soccer programs for young people throughout our region. We have been headquartered in Charlotte for more than 60 years and value partnerships that help create a vibrant and dynamic city,” said Leon Topalian, Chair, President and Chief Executive Officer of Nucor Corporation. Nucor's commitment to the environment and local communities is reflected in its recent partnership with Google and Microsoft to drive the transition to 24/7 clean energy. In line with this dedication, Richard Barry Park was selected to host the festivities on Friday, March 21 st . The park is adjacent to Francis Bradley Middle School and Barnette Elementary, and it is also near Hopewell High, where many Charlotte Independence Soccer Club players attend.
March 21, 2025, Charlotte, NC - Independence Soccer Club is thrilled to announce that we are now a part of the National Academy League (NAL). This exciting opportunity allows our players to compete at the highest level, while benefiting from the league's focus on elite development and college recruitment. We look forward to this new chapter, as it aligns with our commitment to providing our athletes with the best training, competition, and exposure.
March 12, 2025 - Charlotte, NC - We are thrilled to join MLS NEXT top tier and MLS NEXT new tier, a leading platform for developing the next generation of soccer talent. MLS NEXT offers an exceptional environment where our players can compete at the highest levels, with access to elite training, national competitions, and top-tier coaching. This partnership aligns perfectly with our commitment to player development, focusing not only on athletic growth but also on fostering leadership, character, and community involvement. Through MLS NEXT, our players will have the opportunity to reach their full potential and take their game to new heights.
March 11, 2025 - Charlotte, NC - We are excited to join the Girls Academy League, a premier platform dedicated to developing female soccer players both athletically and personally. The Girls Academy provides our players with a unique opportunity to compete at the highest level, fostering talent and growth through its national competitions and elite training environment. With the league's commitment to holistic development, our players will benefit from a player-focused structure that emphasizes mentorship, leadership, and community involvement.
