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Fan-Favorite Shipalane Returns to NCFC

By USLSoccer.com Staff, 05/24/18, 3:46PM EDT

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Attacking midfielder has recorded 33 goals in 175 appearances for club in seven prior seasons


Photo courtesy North Carolina FC

CARY, N.C. – North Carolina FC announced on Thursday afternoon it had welcomed back a familiar face with the re-signing of veteran and longtime club standout Tiyi Shipalane. The move improves the club’s depth and adds another dangerous attacking option to the roster.

“Yes, it’s good to rejoin the team,” said Shipalane. “Obviously, I’m looking forward to us making the playoffs. That’s a must-do. I’m excited to get started and I look forward to making 2018 another good year for my career.”

Shipalane is set to enter his eighth season with NCFC. Nicknamed ‘The Human Highlight Reel’, he’s provided plenty of game-changing moments for NCFC throughout his career. He ranks second in club history with 33 goals, 11,656 minutes and 175 appearances and first in club history with 20 assists. His experience and skill will allow him to contribute along the wings immediately.

The South African native began his professional career in 2009 as he signed with the Harrisburg City Islanders, now known as Penn FC, in the second division of the USL. He scored six goals in 18 appearances and was named the USL Second Division Rookie of the Year. Following short stints with MLS club D.C. United and on loan with the Richmond Kickers of the USL, Shipalane re-signed with Harrisburg for two games before ultimately signing with NCFC in 2010.

In addition to his success in league play with the club, Shipalane has a history of clutch performances in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. He made an impact as a substitute against the LA Galaxy in 2012, as he scored a 75th-minute equalizer and assisted the 88th-minute winner for NCFC’s first win against LA. He also added a goal in NCFC’s 3-1 victory over Chivas USA in 2013, helping the squad advance to the Quarterfinals.

Shipalane will be available immediately for selection as NCFC continues its USL campaign against ATL UTD 2 on Friday night at 7 p.m. ET at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park.

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