Wilmington Hammerheads News Release - www.wilmingtonhammerheads.com

Wednesday, January 2, 2008

WILMINGTON, NC -- The Wilmington Hammerheads announced the signing of three players, subject to USL and USSF approval, to the 2008 squad. All three players, Ashleigh Townsend (D), John O’Hara (GK), and Derek Garrambone (F) will be wearing the Hammerhead jersey for the first time in their playing career.

Two of the players (Townsend and Garrambone) were offered contracts after Coach Irving saw them play at the Hammerheads Open Tryouts the first weekend of December.

Ashleigh Townsend is a familiar face having played for USL Second Division rival Cincinnati Kings. With the Kings moving down to the PDL for 2008 play, Townsend chose to stay in the USL Second Division and join the Hammerheads. While originally from Halifax, England, he graduated from the University of Cumberlands with a degree in Public Health. During his tenure at UC he was recognized by the Mid-South Conference all four years as a member of the All-Conference Team. Towering above the competition at over 6’2”, he will be a force in the Hammerheads’ backfield this season.

John O’Hara is joining the Hammerheads after spending the 2007 season with the USL First Division expansion team Carolina RailHawks. No stranger to the USL structure, O’Hara also spent two seasons with the Richmond Kickers Future of the PDL. While there he was named the PDL Goalkeeper of the Year, and led the league in GAA and shutouts. Originally from Ireland, O'Hara came to the United States to attend George Mason University. As a Patriot, he recorded some impressive honors, including CAA Rookie of the Year, four-time All CAA, and Team Captain for three years.

“This year we are looking to strengthen our defense and I think O’Hara will be the anchor of that backfield as he comes with a lot of experience,” said Head Coach David Irving.

Derek Garrambone joined the Hammerheads after attending the open tryouts in December. This is his first stint in the USL Second Division after spending time in the PDL with the Palm Beach Pumas, Central Florida Kraze and the Chicago Fire Premier.

“The Wilmington Hammerheads are one of the few clubs in the USL that have built a strong reputation for producing successful campaigns and pushing players to the next level. And as a player, I don’t think you could ask for anything more,” said Garrambone.