PHOTO/ASHLEY MAHONEY

Charlotte Independence players show off the USL team's new kits Wednesday.

The Charlotte Independence has a new kit sponsor.

Novant Health has replaced OrthoCarolina on Charlotte’s 2017 jersey. OrthoCarolina held that spot for the club’s first two seasons. Novant is the sole health care provider and will provide an athletic trainer for the Independence. Novant Health Sports and Performance replaces the capacity of former strength and conditioning coach John Lytton.

“If you look at some of the other markets—Orlando and Sacramento, who we aspire to be like—they’ve worked with health care providers in their neighborhoods to help elevate their brands,” Independence President and Managing Partner Jim McPhilliamy said. “I think our Novant partnership is going to do that for us.”

Standing 0-1 in preseason after losing 2-1 to the MLS Columbus Crew, Charlotte hosts the North Carolina Tar Heels at Wingate on March 4. Kickoff set for 2 p.m. Charlotte opens its third campaign on April 1 at the UNC Charlotte’s Transamerica Field against Charleston.

“It’s been fantastic the last couple of months to have soccer in the news in this area, and Charlotte being a big story,” coach Mike Jeffries said. “This is a great opportunity for the people in Charlotte to get to know us—the professional team.”

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