CHARLOTTE, N.C. – The Charlotte Independence announced the signing of defender Hugh Roberts to their USL League One squad for the 2024 season, pending league and federation approval. Roberts previously played for the Jacks from 2019 to 2021.

"I am excited to welcome Hugh Roberts back to Charlotte," Charlotte Head Coach Mike Jeffries expressed. "Hugh was a mainstay of our back line for some of our best seasons – he not only brings athleticism and strong defensive qualities to the group but his experience will bolster our defensive organization and his composure in possession will aid in our build-up play."

Roberts rejoins the team from USL Championship side Monterey Bay F.C. He signed with the Crisp-and-Kelp prior to the club's inaugural season in 2022 and served as team captain. Roberts started and played in 62 games across two seasons. He scored four goals for the club, including the match-winning goal in Monterey Bay’s first-ever win in the final minute of regulation. In 2023, Roberts ranked seventh in the USL Championship in clearances with 144. He led his side in clearances, blocks, interceptions and aerial duels won.

A team leader for the Independence for three seasons, Roberts made 82 appearances and scored six goals for Charlotte from 2019-2021. Roberts led the squad in minutes (2,990), passing accuracy (89.1%), clearances (129) and blocks (24) in 2021. During the shortened 2020 season, the defender played every single minute of all 17 matches, including extra time in the USL Championship Playoffs. He ranked first on the team in clearances, blocks and aerial duels won in 2019 and 2020.

"I'm very excited to be returning to the pitch where my heart belongs," Roberts stated. "Coach Jeffries and the Independence have always made me feel at home which was important for my family. I want a championship more than ever, and I'm determined to bring one to the Queen City. This is going to be an exciting year. I can't wait!"

Prior to joining the Independence, Roberts made 29 appearances and scored a goal in extra time of the USL playoffs in 2018 for Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC. He played the 2017 season with Bethlehem Steel FC, appearing in 26 games, scoring 1 goal, and ranking second on the squad in minutes (2,091).

Roberts earned his first professional contract with the Richmond Kickers in 2014. He made 84 appearances for the Kickers across three seasons from 2014-16. Roberts' final season with the club was a breakout year as he was named to the USL All-League First Team and was a Defender of the Year finalist.

At the collegiate level, Roberts attended George Mason University from 2010-13 where he recorded 69 appearances, 48 starts, six goals and nine assists. During his senior campaign, he was selected to the All-Region second team. From 2012-13, Roberts played with USL League Two side Baltimore Bohemians, logging 27 appearances and two assists.