Carolina Ascent FC secured a pivotal signing with young forward, Stella Spitzer, on a USL Academy Contract for the 2024/25 USL Super League season, pending league and federation approval. Spitzer, celebrated as a rising star, will relocate with her family from Texas to Charlotte to join Head Coach Philip Poole’s dynamic squad.
“Aside from her exceptional skills on the field, Stella’s dedication and maturity are beyond her years,” Poole said. “She’s a perfect fit for our ambitious vision at Carolina Ascent FC.”
Spitzer, who made waves playing with Sioux Falls City FC in the WPSL this season, brings a formidable track record, earning starts alongside seasoned college soccer players. Her performances have led to invitations to the U.S. U14 Identification Camp and the U.S. U-14 Youth National Team training camp in 2024. She has also been named to the 2024 Olympic Development Program (ODP) National Team.
“Carolina Ascent FC is creating a crucial pathway for the development of women’s soccer, and I am very excited to be a part of that,” Spitzer expressed. “Coach Poole and Carolina Ascent FC have built a team of players and coaches that is unmatched in women’s professional soccer, and I am grateful to be able to learn and grow under them.”
Originally from Lewis Center, Ohio, Spitzer moved to Dallas, Texas, to elevate her game with a premier youth program, guiding Solar Soccer Club to the 2023 ECNL National Playoffs. Under the leadership of former U.S. Men’s National Team star Eddie Johnson, she has emerged as a standout talent.
Season tickets are on sale now at CarolinaAscent.com/tickets.
What’s a USL Academy signing?
USL Academy signings have been part of the USL for more than a decade. They were first introduced in the USL Championship in 2013, allowing clubs to add talented pre-professional players to First Team rosters while allowing the player to retain their NCAA eligibility. It’s a model that since its introduction by the USL has been adopted by other professional leagues in the United States.