FC Monmouth is ready to compete

WRITTEN BY: Chris Dailey

FC Monmouth have officially released their roster for the 2023 season. 

This roster will embark on a journey to secure FC Monmouth its first Keystone Conference title in club history. 

Led by Head Coach, John Killick, FC Monmouth will continue to play their games at Count Basie Park and the team is headlined by many returners, most notably, captain Rhys Cotter.

Cotter is ecstatic to start the new season with the blue and gold, stating, “We’re eager to get going again to give the fans a summer to remember.” 

Meanwhile, Reagan Watkins, who led the club in goals in 2019 is returning to the Count Basie in hopes of resecuring his status as the clubs all-time leading goalscorer after Walter Calderon dethroned him.

Perhaps the biggest signing of the season, however, is Rumson native and former Duke and NC State standout, Conor Kelly.

Kelly, who played his club ball at Cedar Stars Monmouth, was a top 50 recruit in the country before heading to college per College Soccer News. Kelly would go on to lead Duke to two sweet 16 appearances before playing at NC State for his graduate season.

With the Wolfpack, Kelly was named third team all ACC and led the team in points.

“I’m a technical player who likes to contribute on both sides of the ball. I give my all each game and do my best to pitch in with goals and assists,” said Kelly regarding what he brings to the table for FC Monmouth.

Kelly will be paired with fellow new kid on the block, Tyler Hutchinson, who plays for Seton Hall and is a graduate of the Barca Residency Academy in Grande, Arizona.

FC Monmouth Head Coach, John Killick, talked about signing these two starlets, stating, “I am very happy to have them with us. They have great experience and abilities, bringing a great attacking force. They are a great addition to an already talented squad and will compliment the returning players immensely. The league is going to be very competitive this year, I am looking forward to seeing the team in action.”

Killick and company have made big moves for FC Monmouth this offseason and the club is in good shape to compete and hoist the long coveted Keystone Conference Trophy. 

The rest of the roster can be viewed on social media, where other announcements and information will be posted throughout the season. To follow FC Monmouth, visit @wearemonmouth on Instagram and Twitter.