TULSA, Okla. – Tulsa Roughnecks FC announced on Friday that midfielder Brady Ballew and forward Cristian Mata would return to the squad for the 2017 season. Ballew will enter the second year of his current contract, while Mata has signed a new deal for the upcoming season. Mata’s signing is pending league and federation approval.

The duo will both enter their third seasons in Tulsa, with Ballew looking to rebound to the type of form that saw him nominated for the USL’s Rookie of the Year award in 2015. The Seattle University product scored the first goal in club history for the Roughnecks, and has recorded six goals and four assists in 48 appearances for the club over the past two seasons. 

RELATED: MLS Veterans Kimura, Ricketts Join Roughnecks FC

Like Ballew, Mata enjoyed a successful rookie campaign. After joining the Roughnecks in mid-season, the local standout scored six goals, including his first pro goal only 20 minutes into his professional debut. Last season, the forward struggled with fitness after injuring an ankle the day before the season-opening match. He eventually made 23 appearances, scoring four goals and picking up two assists.

A native of Tulsa, Mata was the first local product to play for the Roughnecks after signing with the club following a stellar career at the University of Tulsa. As a youth, Mata played for the Tulsa Soccer Club and Union High School.

The Roughnecks and new head coach David Vaudreuil will open the 2017 USL regular season on Saturday, March 25 when they host Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC at ONEOK Field.