Charlotte Independence tops June USL League One honors

CHARLOTTE INDEPENDENCE

Charlotte Independence midfielder Luis Alvarez was named USL League One player of the month for June after scoring five goals across four games.

The Charlotte Independence’s unbeaten streak is earning awards from USL League One.

Coach Mike Jeffries has been named coach of the month for June while midfielder Luis Alvarez earned player of the month.

The Jacks went undefeated in June with three League One wins and a USL Cup result. Alvarez racked up five goals and an assist in four appearances, including a pair of braces in as many games against FC Naples and another goal in a win against league-leading Union Omaha. 

The three league wins in June were part of the team's eight-game winning streak – a new club record. The Independence remain unbeaten in all competitions in the last 13 matches.

“This award is a reflection of the players' energy, commitment, and belief in themselves and each other,” Jeffries said in a statement. “They come in every day with a smile and challenge us as a staff to be at our best. A huge thank you to our ownership for giving me the opportunity to manage this team and create the foundation for a positive environment. I also want to thank our staff — Dave Carton and Gabriel Obertan provide tremendous insight and balance for the players, while the rest of our staff, including the coaching, medical, and equipment teams, are instrumental in fostering a positive atmosphere where the team can thrive.”

Alvarez leads League One’s Golden Boot race with nine goals along with a circuit-best 13 goal contributions for the Independence, which is riding a club-record eight straight league win streak and 13 consecutive unbeaten across all competitions.

“I’m very happy with the work I've been doing individually,” he said. “I have all the confidence a player needs to reach the level I’m at, and I’m also grateful for the trust of the coach and all my teammates.”
The Independence return home on July 18 against Chattanooga Red Wolves. 

Jacks sign Kokoska

The Independence has signed goalkeeper Andreas Kokoska.

Kokoska, 27, previously played with South Carolina United. A native of Plzen, Czechia, Kokoska played collegiately in the United States – first at the University of Colorado-Colorado Springs (2020-21) then William Carey University (2022-24), where he earned SSAC first team all-conference and first team All-East Region.

“I’m over the moon to have the opportunity to play for this coaching staff and alongside these players," Kokoska said in a statement. “I’m looking forward to giving back to this club.”

Said Jeffries: “Andreas provides strong depth for us in goal. Though this is his first pro contract, he has a lot of experience as well as an upbeat mentality. Having worked with him over the last couple of years, we think highly of his goalkeeping qualities and believe he has the potential to develop further.”

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