(April 10, 2007 - Charlotte, NC)  Charlotte Eagles Professional Soccer is pleased to announce today the signing of defender Nelson Akwari as the team prepares for its home opener April 20 ^th against Crystal Palace Baltimore.

The 25 year old 6'0" defender from Houston, Texas comes to anchor the Eagles' back line after starting 35 games for Real Salt Lake of Major League Soccer in the 2005 & 2006 seasons.

Akwari began his career as a teenager on the U.S. under 17 National Team with Landon Donovan, DaMarcus Beasley, and Bobby Convey before going on to UCLA.  While at UCLA, he started every game as a freshman in 2000 and earned second-team All Pac-10 honors as a sophomore.  Akwari left school after his sophomore year to pursue a career in Europe before signing with the MLS New York/New Jersey MetroStars (now Red Bull New York) in 2002.

After spending one season with the MetroStars, Akwari spent the next two seasons with the Columbus Crew before signing with Real Salt Lake in 2005.  Nelson's talent on the field and outstanding character will undoubtedly be a great asset to the Eagles, as the team looks to reach its 4^th straight USL-2 Championship game appearance.

"We are very pleased to have Nelson and his wife Mandy join our organization for the 2007 season," states Eagles' GM Tom Engstrom.  "Nelson is an experienced, high level player who brings a great deal of professionalism to the team.  He is also a person of great character who we expect to have a real positive impact in the community."

Charlotte opens its 15^th Anniversary season at home on April 20^th against USL-2 expansion team Crystal Palace Baltimore.  Kickoff is set for 7pm at Waddell Stadium, and gates open at 6:00.

Individual and Season Tickets are on sale now at CharlotteEagles.com. 

Charlotte Eagles Soccer:  It's much more than a game!