TACOMA, WASH. – Tacoma Defiance today announced that it is exercising the 2023 contract options of three players, putting the club’s roster at six contracted players heading into next season. Following Tacoma’s exit in Western Conference Finals of the 2022 MLS NEXT Pro Playoffs, Defiance has now officially entered the 2022-2023 offseason, with preparations underway for the next campaign.
“Reflecting on the inaugural MLS NEXT pro season, we feel we had an impressive regular season and playoff run. Credit must go to Wade Webber and his staff for being adaptable in an ever-changing environment, while continuing to create a high-performing, developmentally driven culture within Defiance,” said Vice President of Player Development Henry Brauner. “We are actively working on preparing for the 2023 season.”
The following players saw their options exercised for 2023: Wallis Lapsley, Travian Sousa and Hal Udertiz. Three additional players are under contract for next season: Juan Alvarez, Cody Baker and Stuart Hawkins.
Tacoma Defiance declined the contract option for Randy Mendoza. Additionally, the loans of Alfred Gombe-Fei and Georgi Minoungou have expired, while Joe Hafferty, Eric Kinzner, Achille Robin, Valentin Sabella and Marlon Vargas are all out of contract. Adolfo Ovalle remains in active discussions with the club.
After earning the second seed in the Western Conference with a 14-6-4, Tacoma Defiance was eliminated in the Western Conference Finals by St. Louis CITY2 2-1 in the MLS NEXT Pro Playoffs.
CURRENT TACOMA DEFIANCE ROSTER
GOALKEEPERS (1): Wallis Lapsley
DEFENDERS (3): Cody Baker, Stuart Hawkins, Hal Uderitz
MIDFIELDERS (2): Juan Alvarez, Travian Sousa
