Charlotte, NC (June 8, 2023) - The Charlotte Independence Soccer Club (CISC) announces the promotion of Garrett Langley Henson to Full-Time Coaching Staff. This past season, Garrett coached the 2014 North Meck Youth Academy, U13 Girls North Meck Tan, and the U11 Boys North Meck Tan teams.

"You cannot substitute passion and motivation when it comes to being a quality youth soccer coach", said Director of Soccer Neil Roberts. "Garrett is all of that and more!! He is a tireless worker and is passionate about the game of soccer.  Garrett is a very resourceful member of our staff, and we look forward to having him on a full time basis moving forward.

As part of an increased role at the club, Garrett will serve as an Assistant Location Director for Bailey Road Park, and as an Assistant Recreation Director alongside Barry Slagle to provide a fun and memorable experience for our Independence families. Garrett's other responsibilities include Field Operations, Camps, and providing the color commentary for our W League Professional Women's team.

“I'm excited for my next opportunity to grow with the Charlotte Independence. I began my coaching career with the Independence three years ago as a Recreation coach and was fortunate to have wise and giving mentors who helped guide me in my journey coaching from Recreation, to the Youth Academy, to our Local Competitive program. I look forward to being able to give back to our Recreation department, helping to provide a pathway for talented players and coaches who are looking to invest in themselves and reach the next level."

Garrett's passion for player development, enthusiasm as a teacher, and the connection he develops with his players make him an exciting fit with our young players.

"I was fortunate to have great coaches who helped teach me how to play the beautiful game, how to invest in myself and my development, and how to form genuine connections with my teammates based on trust and authenticity. Getting to pass this knowledge down to the next generation while helping them grow as players and as people is a responsibility and a blessing that I relish."

As a young player, Garrett played for Triangle United Football Club, serving as captain of his team during his senior year. He continued to play on the University of Maryland Club Soccer team and finished 5th, and then 4^th in the world at the KickIt 3v3 Soccer World Championships in Orlando, FL in 2010 and 2011. He graduated from UNC-Charlotte, where he earned a degree in Communications, with a concentration on Mass Media and a minor in Journalism. He currently is currently working to obtain his USSF 'C' license.

Off the pitch, Garrett enjoys cooking (although not as much as eating) and frequently creates his own recipes with ingredients and traditions from around the world. He is passionate in his provocation of progress, as he writes articles on the intersection of sport and social justice to use his voice to effect change. He enjoys performing stand-up comedy and you can spot him easily in a crowd due to his big red beard, and the sound of laughter.