Ballard FC is thrilled to announce the first wave of returning players for the 2023 USL2 season. Leo Burney, Peter Kingston, Taketo Onodera, Christian Engmann, and Charlie Gaffney will once again be donning the Ballard FC colors and representing the club on the field.
Leo Burney, a central defender, returns after a highly successful fall college season with Penn where he earned Second Team All-American for NCAA Division 1 as a sophomore. Peter Kingston, a dynamic midfielder, brings energy and creativity to the middle of the park, and returns after earning All-Conference and All-Western Region honor for Seattle University. Taketo Onodera, a high work rate midfielder, returns after completing his first season with Seattle University.
Christian Engmann and Charlie Gaffney round out this first group of returning players. Engmann, a solid center back, provides stability and security to the back line, while Gaffney, a dynamic winger, adds pace and creativity on the flanks.
“We’re excited to welcome back these five talented players,” said Ballard FC Head Coach Jason Farrell. “Each of them brings unique qualities to the team, and their experience and leadership will be crucial for our success this season.”
The return of these five players is a huge boost for Ballard FC and sets the stage for an exciting 2023 USL2 campaign. With a strong core of returning players and a talented group of new additions, Ballard FC is poised for a successful season. Additional retuning players will be announced on a rolling basis as well as exciting new players to be announced soon.
Fans are encouraged to come out and support the team at their home games, as they look to build on their past success and make a run for the USL2 championship. Tickets go on sale February 21st!
