MADISON, Wis. – Forward Madison FC has re-signed veteran forward Derek Gebhard for the 2026 season, pending league and federation approval. This will be Gebhard’s sixth season with Forward Madison as he extends his run as the longest-tenured player in the club’s history.

Gebhard had a tremendous season in 2025 where he started in 25 matches, set a club regular season scoring record with 11 goals, and set the record for most goals in Forward Madison FC club history with 29 total tallies. Derek’s consistency on the pitch and versatility on the ball make him an invaluable cornerstone of the FMFC offense. 

"We're extremely excited to return our all time leading goal-scorer, Derek Gebhard, to the club after a really strong 2025 campaign and All-League recognition,” said Forward Madison FC Head Coach and Technical Director Matt Glaeser. "Derek's coachability and adaptability have made him a consistent performer for us over the last five seasons and he exudes the kind of mentality and professionalism we covet at Forward Madison FC."

Gebhard’s overall performance in 2025 was stellar, contributing one assist and tallying 24 chances created in addition to his 11 goals to earn a 2025 USL League One All-League Second Team selection. Gebhard’s leadership was also recognized by the technical staff as he was appointed captain for over half of the season’s matches. 

"I'm delighted that Derek has extended his contract with Forward Madison FC,” said the club’s Sporting Director Matt Cairns. “He's been a standout player in USL League One for a number of years now and I have no doubt he'll continue to lead by example in 2026."

Gebhard’s early career started to take shape in 2018, playing for El Paso Locomotive FC in the USL Championship and scoring two goals in 18 appearances before being loaned to the Charlotte Independence. He then transferred to OKC Energy FC and then back to the Independence before landing in Madison in 2021.