Team News

SACRAMENTO, Calif.  — Sacramento Republic FC announced today it has reached an agreement with versatile winger/fullback Ashkanov ‘Ash’ Apollon, pending league and federation approval. The terms of the new deal were not disclosed.

SACRAMENTO, Calif.  — Sacramento Republic FC announced today it has reached an agreement with versatile winger/fullback Ashkanov ‘Ash’ Apollon, pending league and federation approval. The terms of the new deal were not disclosed.

“Ash impressed us from minute one at our open tryout, and he continued to impress with our first team squad this preseason,” Republic FC General Manager Todd Dunivant said. “He has primarily played as an attacking player, but we think his skillset actually lends itself better as a wingback where he can join the attack late and create overloads. Ash’s journey with us is a great story of what is possible when you take your opportunity, and we are delighted to welcome him into the team.”

Apollon received an invitation to join Republic FC’s training camp following his performance at the club’s open tryouts. Most recently, Ash played in France at Stadium Racing Colmar in 2019, FC Mulhouse in 2018, and Voltigeurs de Chateaubriant in 2017. 

Apollon was born in Boston, Massachusetts, first taking to the pitch at the age of 17 while living in Haiti. When he returned to the U.S., Apollon played collegiately for one season at Peninsula College in Washington where he scored 16 goals and lead the NWAC with 15 assists. During his single season at the Pacific Northwest junior college, Ash helped guide his side to the 2013 Championship. 

Ash signed his first professional contract in Thailand with Bangkok FC of the Thailand Premier League prior to being loaned to a second-tier club, Grakcu Looktabfah FC in 2014. In his nine games with the club, Apollon netted 12 goals and recorded nine assists. He played one season in Thailand before returning to the United States to join the Kitsap Pumas of the Premier Development League in 2015. 

Following his season with Kitsap, the speedy 28-year-old joined the Seattle Sounders FC U-23 side in 2016 where he scored once in three appearances. 

# # #

“Ash impressed us from minute one at our open tryout, and he continued to impress with our first team squad this preseason,” Republic FC General Manager Todd Dunivant said. “He has primarily played as an attacking player, but we think his skillset actually lends itself better as a wingback where he can join the attack late and create overloads. Ash’s journey with us is a great story of what is possible when you take your opportunity, and we are delighted to welcome him into the team.”

Apollon received an invitation to join Republic FC’s training camp following his performance at the club’s open tryouts. Most recently, Ash played in France at Stadium Racing Colmar in 2019, FC Mulhouse in 2018, and Voltigeurs de Chateaubriant in 2017. 

Apollon was born in Boston, Massachusetts, first taking to the pitch at the age of 17 while living in Haiti. When he returned to the U.S., Apollon played collegiately for one season at Peninsula College in Washington where he scored 16 goals and lead the NWAC with 15 assists. During his single season at the Pacific Northwest junior college, Ash helped guide his side to the 2013 Championship. 

Ash signed his first professional contract in Thailand with Bangkok FC of the Thailand Premier League prior to being loaned to a second-tier club, Grakcu Looktabfah FC in 2014. In his nine games with the club, Apollon netted 12 goals and recorded nine assists. He played one season in Thailand before returning to the United States to join the Kitsap Pumas of the Premier Development League in 2015. 

Following his season with Kitsap, the speedy 28-year-old joined the Seattle Sounders FC U-23 side in 2016 where he scored once in three appearances. 

# # #

Republic FC’s offense took the seventh-most shots in the entire USL last season and given the offseason acquisitions the club has made, that number has a legitimate chance of increasing substantially. 

The Indomitable Club had a topsy-turvy season on the offensive front, blowing by opponents one week then stymied the next. But the team had to overcome a number of key injuries within the attacking arsenal and still managed to piece together a solid playoff run that was a single game shy of playing in the Western Conference Finals.  

Republic FC’s offense took the seventh-most shots in the entire USL last season and given the offseason acquisitions the club has made, that number has a legitimate chance of increasing substantially. 

The Indomitable Club had a topsy-turvy season on the offensive front, blowing by opponents one week then stymied the next. But the team had to overcome a number of key injuries within the attacking arsenal and still managed to piece together a solid playoff run that was a single game shy of playing in the Western Conference Finals.  

With the club captain returning and the addition of the 2015 USL Rookie of the year, the 2020 campaign looks to be an exciting one on the offensive end of the pitch for Mark Briggs’ men. 

Returning to the Indomitable Club is forward Cameron Iwasa who finished the 2019 campaign with his second straight 17-goal season. The club’s all-time leading goal scorer not only led the boys in Old Glory Red with 17 strikes this season, but his six assists were also a team best. Iwasa is entering his fifth season with his hometown club and is playing like he’s in the peak of his prime. Last season, the club captain made 33 appearances (29 starts) and logged the second-most minutes on the team behind Jaime Villarreal.

With the club captain returning and the addition of the 2015 USL Rookie of the year, the 2020 campaign looks to be an exciting one on the offensive end of the pitch for Mark Briggs’ men. 

Returning to the Indomitable Club is forward Cameron Iwasa who finished the 2019 campaign with his second straight 17-goal season. The club’s all-time leading goal scorer not only led the boys in Old Glory Red with 17 strikes this season, but his six assists were also a team best. Iwasa is entering his fifth season with his hometown club and is playing like he’s in the peak of his prime. Last season, the club captain made 33 appearances (29 starts) and logged the second-most minutes on the team behind Jaime Villarreal.

Iwasa is a proven point producer in the USL with well over 40 goals in league play since he joined SRFC in 2015. He’s been one of the league’s elite finishers for a handful of seasons and has been recognized by the league twice as he earned USL All-League Second Team honors in 2016 and 2018. But Iwasa brings more to the table than just his goal scoring prowess and exceptional eye to capitalize on a scoring opportunity. His locker room leadership and veteran presence are equally as crucial to Republic FC’s team success as finding the back of the net. But the goals don’t hurt either. 

Alongside the Sacramento native spearheading the attack is Kharlton Belmar who signed with the club in December. The 2015 Rookie of the Year has notched double digit scoring seasons three times over his professional career and has plenty of experience as both a winger and a forward. Over his decorated career, Belmar has racked up a number of individual honors including being named 2018 Player of the Month honors for March, twice has he earned USL Player of the Week honors and the dynamic playmaker has been a Championship Team of the Week selection eight times since 2015.

Iwasa is a proven point producer in the USL with well over 40 goals in league play since he joined SRFC in 2015. He’s been one of the league’s elite finishers for a handful of seasons and has been recognized by the league twice as he earned USL All-League Second Team honors in 2016 and 2018. But Iwasa brings more to the table than just his goal scoring prowess and exceptional eye to capitalize on a scoring opportunity. His locker room leadership and veteran presence are equally as crucial to Republic FC’s team success as finding the back of the net. But the goals don’t hurt either. 

Alongside the Sacramento native spearheading the attack is Kharlton Belmar who signed with the club in December. The 2015 Rookie of the Year has notched double digit scoring seasons three times over his professional career and has plenty of experience as both a winger and a forward. Over his decorated career, Belmar has racked up a number of individual honors including being named 2018 Player of the Month honors for March, twice has he earned USL Player of the Week honors and the dynamic playmaker has been a Championship Team of the Week selection eight times since 2015.

Not only has Belmar bagged goals everywhere he’s been in the USL, but he’s also notched a handful of MLS appearances during his time with Sporting Kansas City. During his time in KC, the versatile attacking threat spent time with their USL club, Sporting Kansas City II (rebranded from Swope Park Rangers) and is still the USL clubs’ all-time leading goal scorer. 

After turning heads at the open tryout and earning an invitation to training camp is forward Khalid Balogun. Balogun, a six-foot-four forward, played his college ball at St. Mary’s College of Maryland where the striker scored 12 goals, registered seven assists and was named the St. Mary’s Athlete of the Month for September during his senior season in 2018. Another trialist who earned an invite to training camp is Daawdy Seay who previously played in Liberia for Nimba FC. 

Not only has Belmar bagged goals everywhere he’s been in the USL, but he’s also notched a handful of MLS appearances during his time with Sporting Kansas City. During his time in KC, the versatile attacking threat spent time with their USL club, Sporting Kansas City II (rebranded from Swope Park Rangers) and is still the USL clubs’ all-time leading goal scorer. 

After turning heads at the open tryout and earning an invitation to training camp is forward Khalid Balogun. Balogun, a six-foot-four forward, played his college ball at St. Mary’s College of Maryland where the striker scored 12 goals, registered seven assists and was named the St. Mary’s Athlete of the Month for September during his senior season in 2018. Another trialist who earned an invite to training camp is Daawdy Seay who previously played in Liberia for Nimba FC. 

Stoked for the season opener against FC Tulsa on March 7? Secure your spot for the first regular season match by selecting a full or partial-season plan today– starting at just 5 matches. Not only will you lock in tickets for the 2020 USL Championship season, but you’ll also receive the full slate of Republic FC membership benefits and MLS priority access for the 2022 season. 

Stoked for the season opener against FC Tulsa on March 7? Secure your spot for the first regular season match by selecting a full or partial-season plan today– starting at just 5 matches. Not only will you lock in tickets for the 2020 USL Championship season, but you’ll also receive the full slate of Republic FC membership benefits and MLS priority access for the 2022 season. 

The Republic FC midfield situation is an exciting combination of speed, strength, creativity and grit. Most importantly, it’s a mix of players who are proven winners, at both the professional and collegiate level.

The Republic FC midfield situation is an exciting combination of speed, strength, creativity and grit. Most importantly, it’s a mix of players who are proven winners, at both the professional and collegiate level.

On the attacking front, the boys in Old Glory Red have a high-class problem on their hands with a slew of talented returning playmakers including Sam Werner, Villyan Bijev, and Dariusz Formella battling for minutes in the midfield.

Collectively, the wingers tallied 10 goals and nine assists this past season, while creating 97 total scoring chances during league play. The attacking trio also netted five game-winning goals last year across all competitions including Formella’s back-to-back game-winners in the heart of SRFC’s pivotal postseason push. 

On the attacking front, the boys in Old Glory Red have a high-class problem on their hands with a slew of talented returning playmakers including Sam Werner, Villyan Bijev, and Dariusz Formella battling for minutes in the midfield.

Collectively, the wingers tallied 10 goals and nine assists this past season, while creating 97 total scoring chances during league play. The attacking trio also netted five game-winning goals last year across all competitions including Formella’s back-to-back game-winners in the heart of SRFC’s pivotal postseason push. 

Werner finished his first season with the Indomitable Club having supplied 230 crosses during league play which was good enough for third in all of the USL. The three-time National Champion at Stanford also finished the 2019 season with the second-most assists on the team during league play (5). 

Another veteran eying a spot in the starting XI is newly signed attacking threat Kharlton Belmar, who joins the Indomitable Club from Nashville SC. Belmar adds tremendous pace from the flanks and has a lethal shot at his disposal that earned him 2015 Rookie of the Year honors. His versatility allows Belmar to line up as a winger or even a true forward, either way, he'll be an exciting attacking option for the boys in Old Glory Red this upcoming campaign. 

Werner finished his first season with the Indomitable Club having supplied 230 crosses during league play which was good enough for third in all of the USL. The three-time National Champion at Stanford also finished the 2019 season with the second-most assists on the team during league play (5). 

Another veteran eying a spot in the starting XI is newly signed attacking threat Kharlton Belmar, who joins the Indomitable Club from Nashville SC. Belmar adds tremendous pace from the flanks and has a lethal shot at his disposal that earned him 2015 Rookie of the Year honors. His versatility allows Belmar to line up as a winger or even a true forward, either way, he’ll be an exciting attacking option for the boys in Old Glory Red this upcoming campaign. 

Midfielders Jaime Villarreal and Drew Skundrich return to the central part of the pitch where the two started 24 of 37 USL matches together (postseason included). The duo combined for over 5,000 minutes during league play, 64 interceptions, 107 tackles, 69 tackles won, and collected nine shutouts when paired on the field together. When paired together in 2019, Villarreal and Skundrich registered nine shutouts and posted a record of 11-8-5 over 24 matches. 

Villarreal lead the entire squad in minutes played and starts last season. He also contributed two goals in 2019, both of which were game winning strikes. 

Midfielders Jaime Villarreal and Drew Skundrich return to the central part of the pitch where the two started 24 of 37 USL matches together (postseason included). The duo combined for over 5,000 minutes during league play, 64 interceptions, 107 tackles, 69 tackles won, and collected nine shutouts when paired on the field together. When paired together in 2019, Villarreal and Skundrich registered nine shutouts and posted a record of 11-8-5 over 24 matches. 

Villarreal lead the entire squad in minutes played and starts last season. He also contributed two goals in 2019, both of which were game winning strikes. 

Adding to that central midfield depth will be the tenacious Andrew Wheeler-Omiunu who will be a formidable force as a holding midfielder. Wheeler-Omiunu joins the Indomitable Club from Arizona where he split last season between FC Tucson of USL League One before earning a call up to Phoenix Rising FC where he made six appearances for the record-breaking USL club. Wheeler-Omiunu, who was a member of the 2018 MLS Cup Champion Atlanta United team, was a two-time League One Team of the Week selection before Rising FC requested his services. 

Adding to that central midfield depth will be the tenacious Andrew Wheeler-Omiunu who will be a formidable force as a holding midfielder. Wheeler-Omiunu joins the Indomitable Club from Arizona where he split last season between FC Tucson of USL League One before earning a call up to Phoenix Rising FC where he made six appearances for the record-breaking USL club. Wheeler-Omiunu, who was a member of the 2018 MLS Cup Champion Atlanta United team, was a two-time League One Team of the Week selection before Rising FC requested his services. 

Another new acquisition to the SRFC midfield is the return of club legend, Rodrigo Lopez. RoRo, who reunites with Republic FC after pursuing his dream of playing in Mexico’s top division, has recently been playing as a box-to-box holding midfielder and will be a valuable asset during his second stint with Sacramento. His leadership, creativity and clinical quality on set pieces will be a welcomed addition to the midfield unit.  

Another new acquisition to the SRFC midfield is the return of club legend, Rodrigo Lopez. RoRo, who reunites with Republic FC after pursuing his dream of playing in Mexico’s top division, has recently been playing as a box-to-box holding midfielder and will be a valuable asset during his second stint with Sacramento. His leadership, creativity and clinical quality on set pieces will be a welcomed addition to the midfield unit.  

Joining the versatile attacking front for Republic FC this coming season will be local standout Mario Penagos who recently signed his first professional contract with the Indomitable Club. Penagos, a native of Elk Grove, CA, has been an available substitute in 11 USL matches, dating back to 2018, and started a pair of international friendlies with the first team this past season. With over 120 academy appearances under his belt, over 100 starts in academy play and 54 career goals, Penagos looks ready and hungry for first team opportunities. 

Another product of the Republic FC Academy is midfielder Julian Chavez who earned an invite to training camp with the first team. Unlike Penagos, Chavez has not signed a professional contract but having been invited to camp speaks volumes as to what the coaches see in the talented youngster. Whether or not Chavez makes the 2020 first team, there’s no doubt he has a bright future in an Old Glory Red kit.  

Joining the versatile attacking front for Republic FC this coming season will be local standout Mario Penagos who recently signed his first professional contract with the Indomitable Club. Penagos, a native of Elk Grove, CA, has been an available substitute in 11 USL matches, dating back to 2018, and started a pair of international friendlies with the first team this past season. With over 120 academy appearances under his belt, over 100 starts in academy play and 54 career goals, Penagos looks ready and hungry for first team opportunities. 

Another product of the Republic FC Academy is midfielder Julian Chavez who earned an invite to training camp with the first team. Unlike Penagos, Chavez has not signed a professional contract but having been invited to camp speaks volumes as to what the coaches see in the talented youngster. Whether or not Chavez makes the 2020 first team, there’s no doubt he has a bright future in an Old Glory Red kit.  

Can't wait for the home opener against FC Tulsa on March 7? Secure your spot for the first regular season match by selecting a full or partial-season plan today– starting at just 5 matches. Not only will you lock in tickets for the 2020 USL Championship season, but you’ll also receive the full slate of Republic FC membership benefits and MLS priority access for the 2022 season. 

Can’t wait for the home opener against FC Tulsa on March 7? Secure your spot for the first regular season match by selecting a full or partial-season plan today– starting at just 5 matches. Not only will you lock in tickets for the 2020 USL Championship season, but you’ll also receive the full slate of Republic FC membership benefits and MLS priority access for the 2022 season. 

Last season, Republic FC finished the season with the third-best defense in the Western Conference and tallied 12 total clean sheets during league play. While the foundation of the formidable defense from last year returns, there’s a few new faces in the mix competing for a starting spot in Republic FC’s back line. 

Last season, Republic FC finished the season with the third-best defense in the Western Conference and tallied 12 total clean sheets during league play. While the foundation of the formidable defense from last year returns, there’s a few new faces in the mix competing for a starting spot in Republic FC’s back line. 

In the central part of the defense, the boys in Old Glory Red have reliable veterans Dekel Keinan and Matt Mahoney returning for the 2020 USL Championship campaign. Last season, the sturdy CB duo accumulated 37 total starts during league play, Mahoney logged 14 matches while the former English Premier League defender racked up 23 appearances.

Both players also made an impact on the offensive end of the pitch, providing two goals and three assists with the most memorable scoring moment being an 89thminute thunderous header from Mahoney to level the score in the closing moments against archrivals LA Galaxy II and earn a priceless point during Republic FC’s postseason push. 

In the central part of the defense, the boys in Old Glory Red have reliable veterans Dekel Keinan and Matt Mahoney returning for the 2020 USL Championship campaign. Last season, the sturdy CB duo accumulated 37 total starts during league play, Mahoney logged 14 matches while the former English Premier League defender racked up 23 appearances.

Both players also made an impact on the offensive end of the pitch, providing two goals and three assists with the most memorable scoring moment being an 89thminute thunderous header from Mahoney to level the score in the closing moments against archrivals LA Galaxy II and earn a priceless point during Republic FC’s postseason push. 

Recently signed to his first professional contract, Hayden Sargis, will be joining Keinan and Mahoney for first team action this season in the heart of Republic FC’s defense. The 17-year-old Sargis, a native of Turlock, CA, has been with the Republic FC Academy since its inception in 2015 and started a pair of international friendly matches with the first team in 2019 (Club America U-20’s, FC Juarez). Sargis made over 100 appearances during SRFC Academy career and started a total of 92 academy matches. 

Recently signed to his first professional contract, Hayden Sargis, will be joining Keinan and Mahoney for first team action this season in the heart of Republic FC’s defense. The 17-year-old Sargis, a native of Turlock, CA, has been with the Republic FC Academy since its inception in 2015 and started a pair of international friendly matches with the first team in 2019 (Club America U-20’s, FC Juarez). Sargis made over 100 appearances during SRFC Academy career and started a total of 92 academy matches. 

The Indomitable Club also signed former second overall selection by LA Galaxy in the 2018 MLS SuperDraft and three-time NCAA champion with Stanford University, Tomas Hilliard-Arce. The former Cardinal made five MLS appearances with the SoCal club but spent the majority of 2019 with LA’s USL team, Los Dos, where he was named to the USL Championship Team of the Week twice and led his team in clearances (127), blocks (23) and interceptions (56).

The Indomitable Club also signed former second overall selection by LA Galaxy in the 2018 MLS SuperDraft and three-time NCAA champion with Stanford University, Tomas Hilliard-Arce. The former Cardinal made five MLS appearances with the SoCal club but spent the majority of 2019 with LA’s USL team, Los Dos, where he was named to the USL Championship Team of the Week twice and led his team in clearances (127), blocks (23) and interceptions (56).

As for the wing backs, having Juan Barahona, Shannon Gomez and Jordan McCrary back in Old Glory Red is huge. The first 11 matches of the year in all competitions in 2019 with McCrary and Gomez on the flanks resulted in a 7-3-1 record and six clean sheets. With McCrary and Gomez paired together, only twice all season did the club surrender three goals or more in a match, with one of the two games being a Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup match against MLS-side San Jose Earthquakes. 

Once Gomez was sidelined for the season with an injury, Barahona stepped up and shined alongside McCrary, as the two fullbacks tallied a 9-4-2 record together and collected four clean sheets. During a nine-game stretch from Sept. 7 to Oct. 27, only once were Barahona and McCrary on the losing end of a match, posting an impressive 6-1-2 record. 

As for the wing backs, having Juan Barahona, Shannon Gomez and Jordan McCrary back in Old Glory Red is huge. The first 11 matches of the year in all competitions in 2019 with McCrary and Gomez on the flanks resulted in a 7-3-1 record and six clean sheets. With McCrary and Gomez paired together, only twice all season did the club surrender three goals or more in a match, with one of the two games being a Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup match against MLS-side San Jose Earthquakes. 

Once Gomez was sidelined for the season with an injury, Barahona stepped up and shined alongside McCrary, as the two fullbacks tallied a 9-4-2 record together and collected four clean sheets. During a nine-game stretch from Sept. 7 to Oct. 27, only once were Barahona and McCrary on the losing end of a match, posting an impressive 6-1-2 record. 

Newcomer Andrew Wheeler-Omiunu has experience playing right back, but the former MLS Cup winner with Atlanta United is more likely to add some bite to Sacramento’s midfield instead of the back line. The same goes for Ashkanov Apollon, a versatile winger/fullback who the Indomitable Club invited to preseason training camp after impressing coaches at the recent open tryout. Apollon plied his trade in Thailand before joining the Seattle Sounders U-23 team for one season before returning to Thailand. 

Newcomer Andrew Wheeler-Omiunu has experience playing right back, but the former MLS Cup winner with Atlanta United is more likely to add some bite to Sacramento’s midfield instead of the back line. The same goes for Ashkanov Apollon, a versatile winger/fullback who the Indomitable Club invited to preseason training camp after impressing coaches at the recent open tryout. Apollon plied his trade in Thailand before joining the Seattle Sounders U-23 team for one season before returning to Thailand. 

Excited to see the boys in Old Glory Red take the pitch for the season opener against FC Tulsa on March 7? Secure your spot for the first regular season match by selecting a full or partial-season plan today– starting at just 5 matches. Not only will you lock in tickets for the 2020 USL Championship season, but you’ll also receive the full slate of Republic FC membership benefits and MLS priority access for the 2022 season. 

Excited to see the boys in Old Glory Red take the pitch for the season opener against FC Tulsa on March 7? Secure your spot for the first regular season match by selecting a full or partial-season plan today– starting at just 5 matches. Not only will you lock in tickets for the 2020 USL Championship season, but you’ll also receive the full slate of Republic FC membership benefits and MLS priority access for the 2022 season. 

It’s been a busy offseason for the Indomitable Club heading into the 2020 USL Championship regular season. 

A reenergized Republic FC side added some notable names including an MLS Cup winner, a USL Rookie of the Year recipient and a second overall selection in an MLS SuperDraft. The boys in Old Glory Red also invited another pair of new names by way of the annual open tryouts right here in Sacramento to earn a potential roster spot with the club. Whether any of the newcomers previously played in the USL, MLS or an international league, each player has been hand-selected to help bring Championship glory back to the California capital. 

It’s been a busy offseason for the Indomitable Club heading into the 2020 USL Championship regular season. 

A reenergized Republic FC side added some notable names including an MLS Cup winner, a USL Rookie of the Year recipient and a second overall selection in an MLS SuperDraft. The boys in Old Glory Red also invited another pair of new names by way of the annual open tryouts right here in Sacramento to earn a potential roster spot with the club. Whether any of the newcomers previously played in the USL, MLS or an international league, each player has been hand-selected to help bring Championship glory back to the California capital. 

As the boys in Old Glory Red begin training camp at Cosumnes River College this week, here’s what the current Republic FC roster is looking like heading into the new campaign, starting with the goalkeepers…

Goalkeeper

On Tuesday, Republic FC announced goalkeeper Adam Grinwis has agreed to join the Indomitable Club following a two-year stint in MLS with Orlando City SC. Grinwis will compete for the starting job with established veteran and former MLS ‘keeper, Rafael Diaz. 

As the boys in Old Glory Red begin training camp at Cosumnes River College this week, here’s what the current Republic FC roster is looking like heading into the new campaign, starting with the goalkeepers…

Goalkeeper

On Tuesday, Republic FC announced goalkeeper Adam Grinwis has agreed to join the Indomitable Club following a two-year stint in MLS with Orlando City SC. Grinwis will compete for the starting job with established veteran and former MLS ‘keeper, Rafael Diaz. 

Diaz started six USL regular season matches in 2019 and kept a clean sheet in two of them, helping to tie the club record for most single season clean sheets during league play with 12. The former New York Red Bulls shot stopper also recorded a shutout over regional rivals Reno 1868 FC, 1-0, in the Second Round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open cup this past year. The 2016 USL Cup winner with NYRB II finished last season in Sacramento with a 1.50 GAA and a save percentage of 64%. 

Grinwis, who won the 2015 USL Cup with Rochester Rhinos, has been with MLS-club Orlando City SC since 2018 where he made five career appearances in MLS action and collected one clean sheet. The 27-year-old played the role of hero in U.S. Open Cup play this past year after making a pair of pivotal saves during a penalty kick shootout in the Quarterfinals against New York City FC to clinch his sides’ spot in the semis. 

Diaz started six USL regular season matches in 2019 and kept a clean sheet in two of them, helping to tie the club record for most single season clean sheets during league play with 12. The former New York Red Bulls shot stopper also recorded a shutout over regional rivals Reno 1868 FC, 1-0, in the Second Round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open cup this past year. The 2016 USL Cup winner with NYRB II finished last season in Sacramento with a 1.50 GAA and a save percentage of 64%. 

Grinwis, who won the 2015 USL Cup with Rochester Rhinos, has been with MLS-club Orlando City SC since 2018 where he made five career appearances in MLS action and collected one clean sheet. The 27-year-old played the role of hero in U.S. Open Cup play this past year after making a pair of pivotal saves during a penalty kick shootout in the Quarterfinals against New York City FC to clinch his sides’ spot in the semis. 

Following a decorated college career at the University of Michigan, Grinny joined the Michigan Bucks of the Premier Development League where he won the 2014 USL PDL Championship title and was named the MVP of the PDL Championship game. He also earned the PDL Goalkeeper of the Year honor as well as PDL Rookie of the Year award in 2012. In 2015, the former Wolverine signed with the USL’s now-defunct Rochester Rhinos where he helped guide his team to the 2015 USL regular season title and USL Cup. 

Joining the veteran shot stoppers at training camp this week is academy ‘keeper Diego Ramos. The 17-year-old received his first call-up to the first team in July 2019 when he signed his first USL Academy contract, allowing the youngster to play in professional matches with the first team, while still maintaining NCAA eligibility by preserving their amateur status. By signing the academy contract this past summer, Ramos was an available substitute in five consecutive regular season matches as the insurance policy behind Diaz. Ramos played in a pair of international friendlies last season against Club America’s U-20 team and FC Juarez, both of which being established clubs competing in Mexico’s top division.  

Following a decorated college career at the University of Michigan, Grinny joined the Michigan Bucks of the Premier Development League where he won the 2014 USL PDL Championship title and was named the MVP of the PDL Championship game. He also earned the PDL Goalkeeper of the Year honor as well as PDL Rookie of the Year award in 2012. In 2015, the former Wolverine signed with the USL’s now-defunct Rochester Rhinos where he helped guide his team to the 2015 USL regular season title and USL Cup. 

Joining the veteran shot stoppers at training camp this week is academy ‘keeper Diego Ramos. The 17-year-old received his first call-up to the first team in July 2019 when he signed his first USL Academy contract, allowing the youngster to play in professional matches with the first team, while still maintaining NCAA eligibility by preserving their amateur status. By signing the academy contract this past summer, Ramos was an available substitute in five consecutive regular season matches as the insurance policy behind Diaz. Ramos played in a pair of international friendlies last season against Club America’s U-20 team and FC Juarez, both of which being established clubs competing in Mexico’s top division.  

Excited for the season opener against FC Tulsa on March 7? Secure your spot for the first regular season match by selecting a full or partial-season plan today– starting at just 5 matches. Not only will you lock in tickets for the 2020 USL Championship season, but you’ll also receive the full slate of Republic FC membership benefits and MLS priority access for the 2022 season. 

Excited for the season opener against FC Tulsa on March 7? Secure your spot for the first regular season match by selecting a full or partial-season plan today– starting at just 5 matches. Not only will you lock in tickets for the 2020 USL Championship season, but you’ll also receive the full slate of Republic FC membership benefits and MLS priority access for the 2022 season. 

SACRAMENTO, Calif.  — Sacramento Republic FC will begin preseason training camp next week at Cosumnes River College on Monday, January 27. Head Coach Mark Briggs named his preliminary 24-man roster competing for spots with the first team, including two players who earned invitations to preseason camp following an impressive trial during the club’s annual open tryouts. 

A few familiar faces returning to the Indomitable Club include Cameron Iwasa, the club’s all-time leading goal scorer, who re-signed with the boys in Old Glory Red this offseason. Club legend Rodrigo Lopez is also reuniting with Republic FC for his second stint with the club after playing in Mexico’s top division. During Sacramento’s inaugural season in 2014, RoRo was instrumental in guiding the Indomitable Club to its first-ever USL Championship title. 

A handful of new additions with Major League Soccer experience joining the Indomitable Club for the coming season include goalkeeper Adam Grinwis – Orlando City SC, defender Tomas Hilliard-Arce – LA Galaxy, midfielder and MLS Cup winner Andrew Wheeler-Omiunu – Atlanta United, and Kharlton Belmar – Sporting Kansas City. 

Republic FC Academy products and local standouts defender Hayden Sargis (Turlock, CA) and midfielder Mario Penagos (Elk Grove, CA) recently signed their first professional contracts and will have the opportunity to be part of the Indomitable Club’s first team foundation for the foreseeable future and beyond. 

Also receiving invites to training camp are Republic FC Academy goalkeeper Diego Ramos and midfielder Julian Chavez. Ramos signed his first ‘USL Academy’ contract in July of 2019, allowing the 17-year-old goalkeeper to be an available substitute in five USL regular season matches this past season. Chavez has competed in 10 USSDA matches this season with the Republic FC U-19s and scored five goals. The midfielder has 36 goals in his SRFC Academy career.   

Two trialists, Khalid Balogun and Ashkanov Apollon, earned invitations to training camp after impressing during open tryouts last weekend and have an opportunity to join the team for the 2020 regular season. Balogun, a six-foot-four forward, played his college ball at St. Mary’s College of Maryland where the striker scored 12 goals, registered seven assists and was named the St. Mary’s Athlete of the Month for September during his senior season in 2018. Ashkanov, a versatile winger/fullback plied his trade in Thailand before joining the Seattle Sounders U-23 team for one season before returning to play professionally in Thailand. 

Just because training camp has yet to begin doesn’t mean fans can’t lock in their tickets for the 2020 home opener on March 7. All fans can secure their seats by selecting a full or partial-season plan today– starting at just 5 matches. Not only will you lock in tickets for the 2020 USL Championship season, but you’ll also receive the full slate of Republic FC membership benefits and MLS priority access for the 2022 season.

Preliminary Roster for 2020 Training Camp

Goalkeepers (3): Adam Grinwis, Rafael Diaz, Diego Ramos

Defenders (7): Hayden Sargis, Dekel Keinan, Juan Barahona, Shannon Gomez, Matt Mahoney, Jordan McCrary, Tomas Hilliard-Arce

Midfielders (10): Villyan Bijev, Dariusz Formella, Drew Skundrich, Jaime Villarreal, Sam Werner, Andrew Wheeler-Omiunu, Rodrigo Lopez, Mario Penagos, Julian Chavez, Ashkanov Apollon

Forwards (4): Cameron Iwasa, Khalid Balogun, Daawdy Seay, Kharlton Belmar

# # # 

SACRAMENTO, Calif.  — Sacramento Republic FC will begin preseason training camp next week at Cosumnes River College on Monday, January 27. Head Coach Mark Briggs named his preliminary 24-man roster competing for spots with the first team, including two players who earned invitations to preseason camp following an impressive trial during the club’s annual open tryouts. 

A few familiar faces returning to the Indomitable Club include Cameron Iwasa, the club’s all-time leading goal scorer, who re-signed with the boys in Old Glory Red this offseason. Club legend Rodrigo Lopez is also reuniting with Republic FC for his second stint with the club after playing in Mexico’s top division. During Sacramento’s inaugural season in 2014, RoRo was instrumental in guiding the Indomitable Club to its first-ever USL Championship title. 

A handful of new additions with Major League Soccer experience joining the Indomitable Club for the coming season include goalkeeper Adam Grinwis – Orlando City SC, defender Tomas Hilliard-Arce – LA Galaxy, midfielder and MLS Cup winner Andrew Wheeler-Omiunu – Atlanta United, and Kharlton Belmar – Sporting Kansas City. 

Republic FC Academy products and local standouts defender Hayden Sargis (Turlock, CA) and midfielder Mario Penagos (Elk Grove, CA) recently signed their first professional contracts and will have the opportunity to be part of the Indomitable Club’s first team foundation for the foreseeable future and beyond. 

Also receiving invites to training camp are Republic FC Academy goalkeeper Diego Ramos and midfielder Julian Chavez. Ramos signed his first ‘USL Academy’ contract in July of 2019, allowing the 17-year-old goalkeeper to be an available substitute in five USL regular season matches this past season. Chavez has competed in 10 USSDA matches this season with the Republic FC U-19s and scored five goals. The midfielder has 36 goals in his SRFC Academy career.   

Two trialists, Khalid Balogun and Ashkanov Apollon, earned invitations to training camp after impressing during open tryouts last weekend and have an opportunity to join the team for the 2020 regular season. Balogun, a six-foot-four forward, played his college ball at St. Mary’s College of Maryland where the striker scored 12 goals, registered seven assists and was named the St. Mary’s Athlete of the Month for September during his senior season in 2018. Ashkanov, a versatile winger/fullback plied his trade in Thailand before joining the Seattle Sounders U-23 team for one season before returning to play professionally in Thailand. 

Just because training camp has yet to begin doesn’t mean fans can’t lock in their tickets for the 2020 home opener on March 7. All fans can secure their seats by selecting a full or partial-season plan today– starting at just 5 matches. Not only will you lock in tickets for the 2020 USL Championship season, but you’ll also receive the full slate of Republic FC membership benefits and MLS priority access for the 2022 season.

Preliminary Roster for 2020 Training Camp

Goalkeepers (3): Adam Grinwis, Rafael Diaz, Diego Ramos

Defenders (7): Hayden Sargis, Dekel Keinan, Juan Barahona, Shannon Gomez, Matt Mahoney, Jordan McCrary, Tomas Hilliard-Arce

Midfielders (10): Villyan Bijev, Dariusz Formella, Drew Skundrich, Jaime Villarreal, Sam Werner, Andrew Wheeler-Omiunu, Rodrigo Lopez, Mario Penagos, Julian Chavez, Ashkanov Apollon

Forwards (4): Cameron Iwasa, Khalid Balogun, Daawdy Seay, Kharlton Belmar

# # # 

SACRAMENTO, Calif.  — Sacramento Republic FC announced today it has reached an agreement with experienced MLS goalkeeper Adam Grinwis, pending league and federation approval. Terms of the agreement were not disclosed. 

SACRAMENTO, Calif.  — Sacramento Republic FC announced today it has reached an agreement with experienced MLS goalkeeper Adam Grinwis, pending league and federation approval. Terms of the agreement were not disclosed. 

“Adam impressed us greatly when looking at his game footage from both MLS and USL, and he has won a championship at the professional level,” said Republic FC General Manager Todd Dunivant. “We think he has significant upside, and we believe he has the tools and mindset to become a top goalkeeper.”

Grinwis spent the 2018 season signed to Orlando City SC, where he made five appearances, recorded 14 saves and earned one clean sheet with the Floridian club. In 2019 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup action, the Ada, MI, native delivered a pair of extra time penalty kick saves during a Quarterfinal showdown with New York City FC, helping Orlando City SC advance in the tournament. Late in the 2018 season, Orlando City loaned Grinwis to Real Monarchs for the remainder of the season where he made four appearances with the USL side before being recalled back to his parent MLS club.

In 2017, Grinwis joined USL Championship side Saint Louis FC. During his single season with the Midwestern club, the netminder make 61 saves in 14 appearances including five clean sheets. 

Prior to his season in Saint Louis, in 2015 Grinwis signed with USL’s Rochester Rhinos where he spent two seasons, made 20 appearances, and helped guide the New York club to the 2015 USL regular season title and USL Cup. 

From 2012-2014, Grinwis played for the Michigan Bucks of the Premier Development League where he tallied 29 career appearances, lifted the 2014 USL PDL Championship title and was named the MVP of the PDL Championship match. He also received the PDL Goalkeeper of the Year honor as well as PDL Rookie of the Year award in 2012, which was the same season his team eliminated MLS-side Chicago Fire in the U.S. Open Cup in a true David versus Goliath-esc upset. 

The 27-year-old played collegiately at the University of Michigan where he made 68 appearances for the Wolverines. In 2014, the shot-stopper was named Michigan Club Man of the Year and in 2012, Grinwis was chosen to the All-Big Ten Second-Team as well as being honored as an All-Big Ten Tournament selection. He also made 12 saves in a single game against Penn State in 2012, a Big Blue record for a single match, and finished his decorated career with the second-most saves (261) and six shutouts in a single season. 

# # #

“Adam impressed us greatly when looking at his game footage from both MLS and USL, and he has won a championship at the professional level,” said Republic FC General Manager Todd Dunivant. “We think he has significant upside, and we believe he has the tools and mindset to become a top goalkeeper.”

Grinwis spent the 2018 season signed to Orlando City SC, where he made five appearances, recorded 14 saves and earned one clean sheet with the Floridian club. In 2019 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup action, the Ada, MI, native delivered a pair of extra time penalty kick saves during a Quarterfinal showdown with New York City FC, helping Orlando City SC advance in the tournament. Late in the 2018 season, Orlando City loaned Grinwis to Real Monarchs for the remainder of the season where he made four appearances with the USL side before being recalled back to his parent MLS club.

In 2017, Grinwis joined USL Championship side Saint Louis FC. During his single season with the Midwestern club, the netminder make 61 saves in 14 appearances including five clean sheets. 

Prior to his season in Saint Louis, in 2015 Grinwis signed with USL’s Rochester Rhinos where he spent two seasons, made 20 appearances, and helped guide the New York club to the 2015 USL regular season title and USL Cup. 

From 2012-2014, Grinwis played for the Michigan Bucks of the Premier Development League where he tallied 29 career appearances, lifted the 2014 USL PDL Championship title and was named the MVP of the PDL Championship match. He also received the PDL Goalkeeper of the Year honor as well as PDL Rookie of the Year award in 2012, which was the same season his team eliminated MLS-side Chicago Fire in the U.S. Open Cup in a true David versus Goliath-esc upset. 

The 27-year-old played collegiately at the University of Michigan where he made 68 appearances for the Wolverines. In 2014, the shot-stopper was named Michigan Club Man of the Year and in 2012, Grinwis was chosen to the All-Big Ten Second-Team as well as being honored as an All-Big Ten Tournament selection. He also made 12 saves in a single game against Penn State in 2012, a Big Blue record for a single match, and finished his decorated career with the second-most saves (261) and six shutouts in a single season. 

# # #