March 2, 2023 – United Soccer League One (USL1) – Charlotte Independence News Release
CHARLOTTE N.C. – The Charlotte Independence announced today the return of club veteran Dane Kelly. Kelly made 41 appearances with the Jacks from 2020-2021. He scored a combined 22 goals with five assists. In 2022, Kelly played with the Pittsburgh Riverhounds in USL Championship. He appeared in 23 matches and scored seven goals with two assists.
“We are delighted to welcome Dane back to the Independence for a third time. Being able to add the USL’s leading scorer enhances our attack,” Charlotte Independence Head Coach Mike Jeffries said. “Dane provides mobility and pace up front, as well as a nose for goal and great box presence. Dane brings experience, savvy, and composure to the role and I look forward to seeing him continue putting balls in the back of the net for the Independence.”
Last year, Kelly became the first player in USL Championship history to score 100 league goals. He helped lead Pittsburgh to a playoff berth before the Riverhounds fell in the Conference Semifinals on penalties.
Kelly played for Ihud Bnei Sakhnin of the Israeli Premier League in 2021 where he recorded 17 appearances. He scored once in the Israeli domestic cup competition, Gavia haMedina.
The Jamaican forward’s first stint with Charlotte was in 2020. He played 16 games and scored 11 goals with two assists.
“I’m very excited to be back with the Independence and can’t wait for the season to start,” Kelly said. “Independence always feels like home to me and I’m definitely looking to help bring silverware to the Queen City this season.”
Before he came to Charlotte, Kelly played with Indy Eleven in USL Championship and scored 10 goals with five assists across 37 appearances in 2019. He joined MLS side D.C. United in 2018 and made two appearances.
In 2017, Kelly won both the league USL Championship MVP and the Golden Boot with 18 goals for Reno 1868 FC. He received his first call up to the Jamaican National team in 2017. Since then, Kelly has scored twice in four appearances for the Reggae Boyz.
Kelly made 24 appearances for Swope Park Rangers and scored eight goals with two assists in 2016. He played with the Charleston Battery from 2011-2015 and scored 48 goals with nine assists across 119 appearances.
The Charlotte Independence kick off the 2023 USL League One season against the Richmond Kickers on Saturday, March 18 at American Legion Memorial Stadium. Home opener tickets are on sale now at…