CARY, N.C. – North Carolina FC announced on Friday the return of one of the club’s top performers in the 2017 season with the re-signing of star defender Connor Tobin. The signing is pending league and federation approval.

“We’re delighted to get Connor back and get him signed,” said NCFC Head Coach Colin Clarke. “He’s an important part of what we’re all about here. He’s entering his fifth season with us. It’s not only what he does on the field, but what he’s involved in off the field. Being a leader and a big voice from the team in what goes on in the community. The offseason is always too long for Connor. He’s chomping at the bit to get back. It’s great to get him signed and he’s a big part of our squad and what we’re building this year. We’re looking forward to another good season from him.”

Since arriving from Minnesota United in 2014, Tobin has been a mainstay on the field and in the community for the club. Tobin is among then longest-tenured players in the club’s history with 118 appearances and more than 10,500 minutes of action across all competitions for North Carolina FC.

Tobin logged a career-high 31 appearances and 2,756 minutes of action in claiming Best XI honors a season ago as he won 104 of 157 duels and recorded 160 clearances at the heart of the NCFC defense.

“I’m very excited to be back,” said Tobin. “It’s an organization that has become my home and to come back is nice. This will be a year of change going to the USL and change always brings opportunity. On the field, just like every year, I’m looking forward to doing my best and help the group ultimately win a championship. Off the field, I want to help make this club one of the most fan-centric clubs in the United States.”

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Tobin is also a prominent member of the community. In addition to winning the Summit Hospitality Community Service Award every year since his 2014 arrival with the club, Tobin is heavily involved in coaching youth soccer and is a founder of the Oak City Classic at Raleighwood – a Triangle-based fundraiser.

“There will be a year two of the Oak City Classic at Raleighwood,” added Tobin. “The community here is what makes this club special. To be able to give back to the community is something that I take a lot of pride in. I hope that we have a successful year two.”