CARY, N.C. – North Carolina FC announced on Wednesday it had signed North Carolina native Michael Harrington for the 2018 USL season, with the 11-year veteran of Major League Soccer adding another major piece to the club’s defensive unit for the new season. The signing is pending league and federation approval.

“I’m excited to add someone with his caliber and experience to the squad,” said NCFC Head Coach Colin Clarke. “He’s played in MLS and had a good career there for many years and we’re excited to bring him back home.

“It’s important to bring players in with that experience. He’s a good person with high character. He’ll help us on the field and he’ll help some of our young prospects and teach them to be better professionals.”

A native of Greenville, N.C., Harrington made more than 250 appearances in Major League Soccer, logging more than 20,000 minutes of action in the top flight. Most recently of the Chicago Fire, the talented left back is no stranger to the Cary area, having previously played for both CASL – now NCFC Youth – in his youth career before competing collegiately for the University of North Carolina, where he was a two-time All-ACC selection.

“I am extremely excited to be coming back home to continue my playing career as the triangle area is at the root of my youth career and is where I proudly represented the Tar Heels for four years as well,” said Harrington. “I’m thankful to Colin and his staff for the opportunity and I intend on doing everything I can day in and day out to make our team as successful as possible on and off the pitch.”

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Harrington featured internationally for the United States U-17 residency program and IMG Soccer Academy in 2001. Harrington was a prominent member of the U.S. Youth National Team, earning his first national team call up at the U-14 level. Harrington represented the United States at several high-profile international tournaments, including the 2003 FIFA U-17 World Championships and the 2005 FIFA U-20 World Cup.

Harrington also spent three seasons with Raleigh CASL Elite (now North Carolina FC U23) in the Premier Development League from 2004-2006.