Wilmington Hammerheads News Release - www.wilmingtonhammerheads.com

Thursday, February 19, 2009

WILMINGTON, NC -- Former Major League Soccer defender Rusty Pierce has agreed to join the Hammerheads 2009 squad, pending USL and USSF approval. Pierce spent eight seasons in the MLS where he was part of the 2002 MLS Cup Finalist New England Revolution.

Pierce commented, “I am honored to have the opportunity to play for the Hammerheads. This gives me the perfect opportunity to continue my playing career while also pursuing my new career with IntraCoastal Land Sales in the land development business. I am excited to be reunited with my good friend Chris Bagley and looking forward to helping this team reach its full potential. I am also looking forward to getting to know Wilmington and the great fans that have always supported this team.”

Pierce spent three seasons at UNC-Greensboro from 1997-1999 and then was drafted 14th overall by the New England Revolution in the 2000 MLS SuperDraft. He spent five seasons with the Revolution, where he made 91 appearances for New England.

In 2004 Pierce was picked up by Real Salt Lake in the eighth round of the 2004 MLS expansion draft. He spent the 2005 season with Real Salt Lake and then was traded to the Columbus Crew where he remained through the 2007 season. Pierce ended his MLS career following the 2007 season. Pierce played in 15 games for RSL and 39 for Columbus.

Wilmington Hammerheads head coach David Irving stated, “Signing Rusty is a tremendous opportunity for this organization. He has experience from his years in MLS and brings us many options across the back. Rusty is a high quality player whom is still very fit and professional. We are extremely excited that we have been able to make this work, it is a winning situation for both parties.”

Pierce currently resides in Myrtle Beach, SC with his wife Elizabeth where he invests in and manages real estate properties.