TAMPA, Fla. – USL League One today announced that FC Naples forward Karsen Henderlong has been voted USL League One Player of the Month presented by Konami eFootball with a league-leading three goals.
Albeit early, Henderlong finished March atop the Golden Boot standings after a three-goal start to his first full season as a professional starter. Across 359 minutes in March, the 24-year-old helped first-year side Naples to an unbeaten start to the season with his 12 recoveries, five dribbles completed, four shots on target and two chances created.
In addition to helping Naples tally draws against Chattanooga Red Wolves SC and Portland Hearts of Pine, Henderlong bagged match-winning goals against both 2024 USL Jägermeister Cup runner-up Forward Madison FC and 2024 USL League One Final runner-up Spokane Velocity FC, handing each their first loss of the season. In Naples' 2-0 victory against Madison on March 15, Henderlong recorded both his first professional goal and first professional brace.
"We are proud to have Karsen be named Player of the Month," FC Naples Head Coach and Sporting Director Matt Poland said. "This recognition highlights his outstanding performances and success on the field. Karsen is a key contributor to the team, and we look forward to his continued contributions throughout the remainder of the season."
The Valparaiso, Indiana native began his professional career with Indy Eleven a season ago, making five USL Championship appearances in 2024. Prior to heading to Indianapolis, Henderlong excelled collegiately at Xavier University (2019-21) and Indiana University (2022-23), earning a pair of All-BIG EAST honors with the Musketeers before leading the Hoosiers to the 2022 NCAA College Cup Final.
Henderlong received 59.5% of a weighted poll that included the USL League One Technical Committee and an online fan vote held at USLLeagueOne.com. Greenville Triumph SC forward Leo Castro finished second on 28.2% with his three goal contributions, while Richmond Kickers midfielder Darwin Espinal finished third on 6.3% with three goal contributions in his first month as a Kicker.
Nominee | Fan Vote | Weight | USL Vote | Weight | Total Vote |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Karsen Henderlong (NAP) | 42% | 25.2% | 85.7% | 34.3% | 59.5% |
Leo Castro (GVL) | 47% | 28.2% | 0% | 0% | 28.2% |
Darwin Espinal (RIC) | 1% | 0.6% | 14.3% | 5.7% | 6.3% |
Juan Carlos Obregón, Jr. (WES) | 10% | 6% | 0% | 0% | 6% |