TACOMA, WASH. – Tacoma Defiance today announced that it is exercising the 2024 contract options of four players, putting the club’s roster at nine contracted players heading into next season. Following Tacoma’s exit in Western Conference Semifinals of the 2023 MLS NEXT Pro Playoffs, Defiance has now officially entered the 2023-2024 offseason, with preparations underway for the next campaign.
“Congratulations to the entire Tacoma Defiance organization for an impressive regular season and playoff run in 2023,” said Vice President of Player Development Henry Brauner. “Wade Webber and his staff continue to create a high-end performance environment year after year within the development space, which is evidenced by three more players making the transition to the First Team over the course of year. We are actively working on preparing for the 2024 season.”
The following players saw their options exercised for 2024: Blake Bowen, Frank Daroma, Gio Miglietti and Braudilio Rodrigues. Five additional players are under contract for next season: Chris Aquino, Antonio Herrera, Elias Katsaros, Georgi Minoungou and Pedro Rodrigues.
Tacoma Defiance declined the contract option for Eythor Bjørgolfsson. Additionally, Juan Alvarez, Wallis Lapsley, Adolfo Ovalle, Travian Sousa and Hal Uderitz are all out of contract. Travian Sousa and Hal Udertiz remain in active discussions with the club.
After earning the second seed in the Western Conference with a 14-5-9 record, Tacoma Defiance was eliminated in the Western Conference Semifinals by Austin FC II in the MLS NEXT Pro Playoffs.
CURRENT TACOMA DEFIANCE ROSTER
DEFENDERS (3): Blake Bowen, Elias Katsaros, Pedro Rodrigues
MIDFIELDERS (6): Chris Aquino, Frank Daroma, Antonio Herrera, Gio Miglietti, Georgi Minoungou, Braudilio Rodrigues
