CHARLOTTE, N.C. – The Charlotte Independence today announced that 2023 USL League One Goalkeeper of the Year Austin Pack is returning to the squad in 2024, pending league and federation approval.

"Austin was a huge part of our success last year," Charlotte Head Coach Mike Jeffries said. "His play was not only deserving of the accolades he received but was vital in our earning points throughout the season. Being able to keep Austin in Charlotte is a huge coup for us, and I look forward to working with him this season and watching him push the goalkeeping envelope a little further."

With 116 saves, Pack set a new USL League One regular season record for saves in a single season, surpassing the previous record of 105. Pack also tied the record for most saves in a single playoff game with seven in the semifinal against Union Omaha.

Anchoring the defense, Pack earned 10 clean sheets in 2023. He logged a save percentage of 74% and was named USL League One Goalkeeper of the Year by the league's coaches and technical staffs. Additionally, Pack was named to the 2023 USL League One All-League First Team.

2024 marks Pack's fifth season with the Jacks after first joining the club in 2020. He was a key player during the 2021 season, helping the Independence earn the first playoff win in club history.

After a brief stint with Hartford Athletic in 2022, Pack returned home to Charlotte for the Jacks and stepped into the starting role in 2023. He played in every single match of the 2023 season for the Independence.

"I'm grateful to be returning to the Independence," Pack shared. "We have a strong core of players returning, and I'm excited to get started."