CHARLOTTE, N.C. (July 2, 2024) – Carolina Ascent Football Club announced today the signing of forward Audrey Harding ahead of the 2024/25 USL Super League season, pending league and federation approval. Harding brings NWSL and European soccer experience to Head Coach Philip Poole’s squad. Carolina Ascent FC’s Inaugural Home Opener is on Saturday, August 17 at American Legion Memorial Stadium. Season tickets are on sale now at CarolinaAscent.com/tickets.
“Audrey is a player I have kept my eye on throughout college and her professional career. Having witnessed her score goals firsthand, I am confident that she will be an asset to our attack in the Carolinas. Audrey creates dangerous chances and is a clinical finisher. She can play up front in different ways and provides us options to play in multiple formations. I have enjoyed getting to know Audrey and look forward to seeing her represent Carolina Ascent FC this season.”
Ahead of the 2023 season, Harding signed with KIF Örebro DFF in the premier Swedish division, the OBOS Damallsvenskan. Harding was a major contributor in league and domestic cup play, scoring goals across all competitions, including goals in back-to-back matches in May.
“I am super excited to be joining the climb with Carolina Ascent FC,” Harding expressed. “I’ve been eager to get back to the Carolinas since my college career, and I couldn’t think of a better time, team, and coaching staff to do so with. I cannot wait to get this season kicked off in less than 50 days and make history together as the newest women’s professional sports team in Charlotte. I hope the Carolinas and our fans are ready for an amazing inaugural season because I am!”
After college, Harding was selected as the No. 38 pick in the 2021 NWSL Draft by the Washington Spirit and signed her first professional contract. She was only the second player from UNC Wilmington to be drafted in the NWSL. Harding made her professional debut on May 1, 2022, in the Spirit’s win over OL Reign.
Harding’s impressive collegiate career landed her in the record books at UNC Wilmington with 23 goals and 66 points. She is one of only three players in program history to tally 20 career goals and 20 career assists. Her assists mark is tied for the program-lead. Harding became the first UNC Wilmington women’s soccer player to earn United Soccer Coaches Scholar All-American accolades in 2021.
About Carolina Ascent FC:
Carolina Ascent FC is one of the eight initial teams of the USL Super League, a new Division One professional women’s soccer league set to kick off in August 2024. Carolina Ascent is reaching new heights for women’s soccer. Step by step the club will take strides to grow the women’s game, elevate the community and support a more sustainable future for the residents of the Carolinas. The team will play all home games at the historic American Legion Memorial Stadium. To join the climb and receive information on club news, season tickets and more, visit carolinaascent.com.
