Wilmington Hammerheads Announce Return of Three Veteran Players

Irving pleased to retain players to build a good foundation for 2013

Wilmington, NC – The Wilmington Hammerheads have officially announced the signing of three veteran players for the 2013 USL PRO season. Hammerheads players Paul Nicholson, Gareth Evans, and Mark Briggs will all be returning onto the pitch at Legion Stadium this year as they look to surpass a successful 2012 season.

Hammerheads midfielder Paul Nicholson and defender Gareth Evans have both been under the direction of Head Coach David Irving since the team’s return to USL PRO in 2011. Both have helped lead the Hammerheads into USL PRO playoffs each year on the squad, appearing in the quarterfinals in 2011 and then succeeding to the finals in September 2012.

Nicholson appeared in 20 matches during the 2012 regular season; totaling one goal and two assists. Evans played in 22 matches; earning one goal.

The upcoming 2013 USL PRO season will also be midfielder Mark Briggs’ third season appearance with the Wilmington Hammerheads. He returns not only as a player, but also continuing his role of Assistant Coach to Irving as they travel to combines and plan for the approaching regular season.

Briggs appeared in 20 regular season matches in 2012; totaling one goal and two assists.

“I’m glad that we can keep players of this stature on the team and with their experience in the league,” Irving said. “All three players have leadership qualities that will surely be noticed and that is a good foundation to build from when beginning a new season.”

For further information, contact the Wilmington Hammerheads office at (910) 777-2111 or online at www.wilmingtonhammerheads.com.