Peña becomes first academy player in Club history to sign an MLS NEXT Pro contract
CHARLOTTE, NC (Thursday, December 21, 2023) – Crown Legacy FC today announced the signing of midfielder Erik Peña.
Peña becomes the first CLTFC Academy player in Club history to sign an MLS NEXT Pro contract.
“Erik is proof that hard work, dedication, and intentional effort to his development pays off,” said Technical Director Bobby Belair. “The Club has been working to create the Pro-Player Pathway since 2020, and Crown Legacy FC has proved to be an excellent way for young players to earn professional minutes. We are extremely proud of Erik to be the first player to take this pathway, and we look forward to watching him grow and be an example for the rest of our Academy.”
Peña, 18, spent the 2023 season with Crown Legacy FC, notching 12 appearances, 2 starts and 296 minutes as an academy player.
“I am honored and so thankful to receive a professional contract with Crown Legacy FC,” said Peña. “I’d like to show my gratitude to the coaches within the academy and the rest of the staff at the Club for believing in me and giving me this opportunity. I am excited to get back to work with my teammates and push to have another successful season in 2024.”
Originally from Saltillo, Mexico, Peña suited up for Queen City Mutiny before joining Charlotte FC’s Academy at 15.
Transaction: Crown Legacy FC signs Erik Peña to an MLS NEXT Pro Contract
Name: Erik Peña Boardman
Position: Midfielder
Height: 5’6”
Weight: 150 lbs
Date of Birth: 6/1/2005
Age: 18
Hometown: Saltillo, Mexico
Last Club: Charlotte FC Academy
How Acquired: Signed to MLS NEXT Pro Contract
