MADISON, Wisc. – Forward Madison FC added local talent to its roster for the first time on Tuesday as the club announced the signing of Madison native Carl Schneider for the 2019 USL League One season, pending league and federation approval.

Schneider, who played club soccer in Madison growing up, has represented the Madison 56ers, La Follette High School and UW-Madison before most recently moving to Sweden to play for IFK Åmål.

Forward Madison unveiled the 26-year-old full back on Tuesday at a convocation at La Follette High School, where he was named Madison Boys’ Soccer Athlete of the Year in 2010 by the Wisconsin State Journal.

“Signing for Forward Madison feels almost surreal,” said Schneider. “I've been in the Madison soccer community for so long and always aspired to play professionally. I never thought my first pro contract would come in that same Madison community where I learned the game.

“From club soccer tournaments to the college recruiting process to European soccer, I've always felt like an underdog,” Schneider said. “As the first Madisonian on the team, I feel like I beat the odds to some extent, and hopefully for kids growing up and playing in Madison, they can feel now that the odds aren't so stacked against them.”

Forward Madison Managing Director Peter Wilt believes Schneider’s signing shows another way that the club is building connections in the Madison community.

“We’re pleased to add a player who played his high school, club and college soccer right here in Madison,” said Wilt. “Carl serves an important role as an inspiration to local youth players aspiring to play professionally in their hometown.”