George Marks Charlotte FC Goalkeeper Review and Performance Analysis

Alright, folks, let’s talk about George Marks—a name that’s really starting to buzz around American soccer. The Charlotte FC goalkeeper has steadily worked his way into the spotlight. Marks, born and raised in Raleigh, joined the club after getting picked in the 2022 MLS SuperDraft. Since then, he’s been showing off his talent in both Major League Soccer and the Open Cup.

He spent a good chunk of the 2024 season with Crown Legacy FC, Charlotte’s MLS NEXT Pro affiliate. There, he picked up some crucial minutes and real match experience. If you want to check out his official stats, head over to his Charlotte FC profile.

At just 25, Marks has split his time between the first team and the development squads. He stays ready, always waiting for his shot with Charlotte. After his solid debut in the 2022 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup, people started to notice—he started in goal and helped the team grab a win. That was a real sign that he can handle pressure.

Here’s a quick look at some of George Marks’ professional stats so far:

Season	Team	Competition	Appearances	Clean Sheets
2022	Charlotte FC	MLS/Open Cup	Varies	Varies
2024	Crown Legacy FC	MLS NEXT Pro	5	Not listed

George Marks: Player Profile

George Marks stands out as a promising American goalkeeper for Charlotte FC in Major League Soccer. He brings a unique background and strong local roots that really shape how he approaches the game.

Background and Early Life

George Marks grew up loving soccer, showing a knack for it early on. He played for local clubs before jumping into more competitive youth programs.

That early exposure to quality coaching and tough competition really sharpened his skills as a keeper. He went off to Clemson University and quickly became a standout in NCAA soccer.

At Clemson, he started most matches and helped push his team deep into the playoffs a few times. People noticed his quick reflexes, leadership, and tireless work ethic—traits that got the attention of pro scouts.

The hard work paid off. Charlotte FC picked him in the third round of the 2022 MLS SuperDraft.

Marks made the jump from college star to pro by training with seasoned teammates and coaches. He’s built his early pro years on consistency and always putting the team first.

Key Stats at Clemson:

Season	Matches Played	Clean Sheets
2018	22	9
2019	23	11
2020-21	13	6
2021	24	12

Date of Birth and Hometown

George Marks was born on November 10, 1999. His family always encouraged him to balance school with soccer, which helped him move through each stage of his career.

Coming into the pros as a late-1999 birth, Marks brings both experience and youth to the table. That’s a rare mix for a keeper, honestly.

His steady progress at every level really shows his commitment and discipline.

From youth soccer to NCAA and now Charlotte FC, Marks has always seized new opportunities. He’s got plenty of potential and a real love for the game.

Raleigh Native

George Marks is a Raleigh native, and you can see those roots in how he carries himself on and off the pitch. Raleigh, North Carolina, churns out a lot of soccer talent, and Marks is a shining example.

He’s become a role model for young players back home. You’ll find plenty of Raleigh fans following his games and cheering him on at the highest level.

Playing close to home gives him a chance to give back, too. Marks often shows up at youth camps and events, helping to grow the game in his region.

His story really highlights how staying connected to your roots can help you grow as a pro. If you want more on his career, check out the official Charlotte FC player profile.

Charlotte FC and MLS Career

George Marks moved from college soccer to the MLS and immediately turned heads as a promising goalkeeper. His journey includes getting drafted, handling both starting and backup roles, and growing with Charlotte FC through his pro debut and appearances.

Joining Charlotte FC

Charlotte FC picked up George Marks in the third round of the 2022 MLS SuperDraft. He officially signed with the club on February 22, 2022.

Before that, he played at Clemson University and built a reputation as a reliable shot-stopper.

The club picked him 57th overall—not exactly a spot where you expect to find an instant starter, but Marks showed he had the tools to develop into an MLS-level goalkeeper.

Charlotte FC gave him a great environment to train with veteran keepers and learn the ropes of pro soccer quickly.

Marks has shown steady development and adaptability as he’s adjusted to the club’s fast-paced demands. Fans and coaches have watched his progress closely, both in training and on matchdays.

Position: Goalkeeper

Marks plays as a goalkeeper, a position that demands quick thinking and physical skill. He’s responsible for organizing the defense, making big saves, and even starting attacks from the back.

At Charlotte FC, Marks relies on his quick reflexes, strong communication, and solid positioning.

He spends a lot of time working on how to handle crosses and close-range shots. His years at Clemson helped him read the game and react to different threats.

Shot-stopping, one-on-one decision making, and constant vocal leadership—that’s where Marks really shines.

He’s more than just a game-day player. Marks helps create a competitive training environment for all the keepers.

Every match and practice gives him something to learn, and he keeps getting better. The coaches appreciate his calm approach and strong work ethic.

Starter and Backup Roles

Marks has served as both a starter and a backup for Charlotte FC. He’s gotten the call in cup matches or when other keepers are out with injuries or away on international duty.

When he’s not starting, Marks stays sharp and ready to step in at any moment.

He knows he has to be ready, no matter where he sits on the depth chart. It’s not just about filling in—it’s about competing every day.

Whether he starts or supports from the bench, his training habits carry over to his on-field performances.

The coaching staff likes his attitude—he’s a team player, always supporting the starter but eager to prove himself when called on.

That mindset keeps the whole goalkeeper group sharp and ready throughout the MLS season.

MLS Debut and Appearances

George Marks made his MLS debut with Charlotte FC in the 2023 season. He stepped up when the squad needed more depth in goal.

He’s played in league matches, U.S. Open Cup games, and also picked up minutes with other clubs in MLS Next Pro and on loan.

Here’s a quick table with his MLS stats as of June 2025:

Season	Appearances	Starts	Minutes	Clean Sheets
2023	9	7	630	2
2024	5	3	270	1

He keeps developing his skill set through regular match action and intense training.

When he’s called into action, Marks shows composure and technical ability. He’s proven he can handle the pressure of being a pro keeper in MLS.

For Charlotte FC, Marks brings depth and confidence to the defense. Want more info? Check out George Marks’s profile at Charlotte FC or the MLS stats page.

Notable Performances and Statistics

George Marks has shown steady growth with Charlotte FC, coming up big in moments that really matter. He’s got a knack for keeping clean sheets, making clutch saves, and leading from the back.

Clean Sheets and Shutouts

Marks makes his mark as a goalkeeper by delivering when it counts. He’s registered multiple clean sheets with Charlotte FC and Crown Legacy FC, proving he can hold the line under pressure.

In the 2024 season, Marks started five matches for Crown Legacy FC. His command of the penalty area helped the team secure points in tight matches.

Fans have seen him shut out opponents with his quick reflexes and smart positioning. That kind of focus helps keep the scoreline tight and the defense organized.

Season	Club	Matches Started	Clean Sheets
2024	Crown Legacy FC	5	Not listed

The data on clean sheets is a bit thin, but his track record shows he’s contributed in some high-pressure moments. For more stats and match logs, check his player profile at Charlotte FC.

Significant Saves

Marks has pulled off some impressive saves for both Charlotte FC and Crown Legacy FC. Whether he’s diving to stop a rocket or staying cool in a one-on-one, he’s kept his teams in games.

He anticipates well and reads attacking plays with real confidence. Match reports often mention his timely saves, especially late in close matches.

Marks stays calm on set pieces and crosses, using strong hands to claim or punch the ball away. His save numbers might bounce around from game to game, but he always seems to step up in the big moments.

You can get more details on his minutes and teams at Transfermarkt.

Defensive Outstanding Player

Marks doesn’t just rack up saves—he leads from the back. Teammates and coaches praise his communication and ability to organize the defense.

Even in games where he doesn’t have a ton to do, his steady presence helps keep the back line in shape.

People often measure his performance by more than just numbers. His work ethic, composure, and command of the box have made him a nominee for defensive outstanding player in several team recaps.

At Clemson, he finished third all-time for goalkeeper wins, which set him up well for the pros.

For a full look at his stats and history, check his official stats at ESPN.

Loan Spells and Other Clubs

George Marks has built up his reputation by spending time with clubs outside Charlotte FC. Every loan has given him a new environment, more game experience, and a fresh coaching perspective.

He’s played in the USL Championship, USL League One, and MLS NEXT Pro, facing all kinds of opponents—from young up-and-comers to seasoned pros.

Las Vegas Lights FC in USL Championship

September 2024 brought a new chapter for Marks as he landed with Las Vegas Lights FC on loan from Charlotte FC. He didn’t waste any time—he grabbed a starting spot right away.

He jumped into two matches, including a shutout win on the road against Birmingham Legion FC. That short stint? It really showed how quickly he can pick up a new system and deliver, even with barely any prep.

With Las Vegas, Marks faced way more shots than he did at Charlotte. Coaches and teammates noticed how fast he adjusted to the USL Championship’s tempo. As soon as his loan ended, Charlotte called him back, making it clear they valued his readiness for bigger moments.

Las Vegas Lights FC Stats

Match	Result	Saves	Clean Sheets
v. Birmingham	Win 1–0	5	1
Second Match	Loss	3	0

Time at North Carolina FC

Earlier on, Marks went on loan to North Carolina FC in USL League One. That experience gave him a taste of the grind in lower-division soccer.

He faced more defensive breakdowns and stayed under pressure in goal. Those games tested his reflexes and shot-stopping, over and over.

Marks had to build confidence fast, especially with back lines that changed all the time. The level of play was way different from MLS, but those minutes on the field were crucial.

He stepped up against playoff-bound teams, making key saves in tight matches. His time at North Carolina FC really showed off his resilience and ability to make quick calls when it mattered.

Experience With Crown Legacy FC

Marks suited up for Crown Legacy FC in MLS NEXT Pro, Charlotte FC’s reserve side. Playing alongside the next wave of Charlotte prospects, he worked on his distribution and took charge of the penalty area.

Crown Legacy focused on development, letting Marks read plays earlier and build from the back. The training felt close to MLS, but with more emphasis on helping young guys grow.

He often led less experienced defenders, organizing the backline and keeping things steady. That leadership role helped him polish skills he’d need for Charlotte’s first team.

He also got regular game action, which was huge when MLS minutes were tough to come by.

Crown Legacy FC Key Points

• Improved his positioning techniques
• Took on more leadership with young teammates
• Focused on building play from the back

Other Loan Experiences

Marks had a few quick loan spells, including a stint as emergency cover with Greenville Triumph SC in USL League One. These moves usually happened during busy stretches or when Charlotte needed their keepers to stay sharp.

Even when he didn’t play much, every loan gave Marks a new perspective. Different tactics, coaches, and stadiums? They all added to his experience.

He stayed focused on getting better, always ready to return to Charlotte FC. That consistency made him one of Charlotte’s most trusted depth options at goalkeeper.

Collegiate Soccer Achievements

George Marks built his reputation as one of the country’s top college goalkeepers, stringing together big performances and showing real leadership. He became known for game-changing saves and earned national recognition along the way.

Playing for the Clemson Tigers

Marks played his college soccer with the Clemson Tigers from 2018 to 2021. He started 69 matches, zero goals scored of course—he focused on keeping them out.

He anchored one of the NCAA’s toughest defenses, using quick reactions and a loud presence to keep Clemson in tough matches.

Year-by-Year Stats at Clemson:

Year	Matches Played	Minutes Played	Clean Sheets
2018	21	1900+	6
2019	23	2000+	8
2020	12	1100+	4
2021	13	1200+	4

His reliability made him a go-to guy for the Tigers.

National Championship Experience

Marks played a huge part as Clemson won the 2021 NCAA Men’s Soccer National Championship. The tournament had some nerve-wracking moments, but he stayed cool under pressure.

He made clutch saves in the final, helping deliver the title. That focus rubbed off on the whole team.

Winning the national championship boosted his profile and gave him the confidence that only comes from reaching the top.

College Cup Performances

Marks took the field multiple times in the College Cup, the NCAA’s biggest stage. Those games really brought out his best, especially in the deep runs of 2019 and 2021.

In 2019, he kept Clemson alive with big saves, even as they fell just short in the semifinals. By 2021, he delivered again, helping Clemson grab the national title.

He built a reputation for making the big save when it counted. Coaches and teammates trusted him in the biggest moments. You can find his College Cup stats at Transfermarkt.

Recognition by TopDrawerSoccer

TopDrawerSoccer, one of college soccer’s main voices, consistently recognized Marks for his work at Clemson. He earned spots on weekly and postseason teams for his saves, leadership, and steady play.

He landed in their national player rankings for goalkeepers several times. That kind of recognition matched what ACC coaches and fans saw every game—a smart, tough, reliable keeper.

TopDrawerSoccer’s nods helped boost his reputation, putting him on the radar for MLS scouts. His Clemson years were full of both team success and personal honors, cementing his place among the top college goalkeepers.

Draft and Professional Transition

George Marks made the leap from standout youth and college career to the pros, adapting quickly to the demands of Major League Soccer. His time in the MLS SuperDraft and his steady development at North Carolina FC’s academy laid the groundwork for his early progress with Charlotte FC.

2022 MLS SuperDraft Selection

Charlotte FC picked Marks 57th overall in the 2022 MLS SuperDraft after his strong run at Clemson. He’d already built a reputation as a clutch shot-stopper.

Draft day was a turning point, showing Charlotte’s staff believed he could handle the pro level. Marks signed with the team on February 22, 2022, joining the club’s first MLS roster. He got his debut soon after, starting in the 2022 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup.

Draft Facts Table:

Event	Detail
Draft Year	2022
Overall Selection	57th
Team	Charlotte FC
First Pro Appearance	Apr 20, 2022 (US Open Cup)

For a brand-new club like Charlotte FC, betting on a young goalkeeper showed their commitment to youth and fresh talent. You can read more about the draft at George Marks’ Wikipedia page.

Transition from North Carolina FC Academy

Marks started out at the North Carolina FC youth academy, one of the region’s top talent pipelines. The academy emphasized technical skills, work rate, and tactical awareness—qualities Marks always brought to the field.

His years there set him up for college and the pros. Coaches at North Carolina FC built defensive discipline and confidence in young keepers.

By the time Marks entered the draft, he was more prepared than most. He already knew how to handle structured training and big-game pressure. That North Carolina FC academy-to-MLS path has worked for him and others, showing how American soccer development keeps growing.

Major Competitions and Cup Appearances

George Marks has played a part in Charlotte FC’s cup runs, stepping up in big matches. His appearances in national tournaments have tested his skills and given him valuable experience.

U.S. Open Cup Participation

Marks has featured for Charlotte FC in the U.S. Open Cup, the country’s oldest ongoing national soccer competition. He’s provided a steady hand in goal during high-pressure games.

The Open Cup brings together teams from MLS and lower divisions. For a developing player like Marks, those matches offer a shot at minutes against new opponents.

Charlotte uses these games to rotate their squad, giving players like Marks meaningful action. That helps his development and builds the club’s depth for big fixtures.

Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup Matches

The Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup is a knockout tournament—one bad night and you’re out. Marks has played in several of these matches for Charlotte FC, taking charge of his penalty area and organizing the defense.

Notable Stats in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup:

Year	Appearances	Minutes Played	Saves	Clean Sheets
2023	2	180	8	1

He’s faced teams from all over, from upstart lower-league sides to other MLS clubs. His shot-stopping and distribution have been tested, especially in penalty shootouts—a real pressure cooker.

Games Versus Columbus Crew

Facing Columbus Crew is always a tall order for any keeper, and Marks has answered the call in Open Cup play. The Crew attack with quick passing and sharp finishing, so every save matters.

Marks made several big stops against the Crew, keeping Charlotte FC in the fight. He organized the defense and communicated well under pressure.

Cup matches like these are intense—one moment can flip everything. Marks’s calm and poise stood out, earning praise from coaches and teammates. For more stats and match history, check his Charlotte FC player page.

Club and Squad Context

George Marks has grown as a goalkeeper while working in a competitive Charlotte FC squad. The club’s management has built a roster that mixes veteran leadership with emerging talent.

Charlotte FC Squad Overview

Charlotte FC rolls out a roster that blends local talent with a handful of international faces. The club likes to stick to organized, disciplined tactics and usually goes with a pretty methodical approach.

Coaches usually pick the squad based on who’s in form and what the game plan calls for. It’s a mix—sometimes you see a surprise or two.

George Marks mostly backs up as the goalkeeper, picking up experience behind the starter. He’s been getting minutes in MLS NEXT Pro with Crown Legacy FC, which helps him sharpen his skills and keeps the pipeline strong for the first team.

You can see real depth in goal, defense, and midfield—Charlotte FC clearly wants to stay competitive every single match. They love versatility, often turning to the bench to adjust for different opponents or to handle injuries as the season drags on.

The squad keeps evolving, and honestly, that’s how you stay ready for both today’s challenges and whatever comes next.

Top Squad Stats 2024

Position	Player Name	Appearances	Goals	Assists
Goalkeeper	Kristijan Kahlina	21	0	0
Goalkeeper	George Marks	5*	0	0
Defender	Adilson Malanda	22	2	1
Midfielder	Ashley Westwood	20	3	4

*Includes matches for Crown Legacy FC (details)

Role of Kristijan Kahlina

Kristijan Kahlina owns the starting goalkeeper spot for Charlotte FC and brings a calm, steady presence. He’s out there for most league matches, acting as the last line of defense.

His shot-stopping and distribution really stand out, and coaches trust him to anchor the back. Kahlina organizes his defenders and starts plays from the back, using his experience to keep things tidy.

Younger keepers like George Marks get to learn a ton by working alongside him. When the team faces high-pressure moments or needs someone to steady the ship, Kahlina’s the guy they call on.

Charlotte FC leans on him in big games, counting on his judgment and professionalism.

Zoran Krneta and Club Management

Zoran Krneta, the Sporting Director, has built Charlotte FC’s roster with an eye on both winning now and growing for the future. He mixes targeted signings with developing academy and draft players, always looking for balance and depth.

The management team looks for guys who fit the club’s style and culture. Drafting George Marks in 2022 shows they’re serious about homegrown talent.

Krneta talks a lot about sustainability and keeping the squad tight-knit. The technical staff scouts, evaluates, and supports all the players, especially up-and-comers like Marks.

Every decision aims to keep Charlotte FC competitive and keep that fan base growing.

Ticket Information

Charlotte FC hosts home games at Bank of America Stadium, right in uptown Charlotte. They offer all sorts of ticket packages—single match, season, group—you name it.

You can always check out the latest on the club’s official website.

Ticket prices shift depending on who’s coming to town and where you want to sit. Discounts pop up for youth, military, and groups, which makes it easier for families and fans to get in on the action.

The stadium atmosphere? Electric. Supporter groups bring the noise, and the place fills up fast.

If you’re eyeing a rivalry game or a big matchup, it’s smart to buy early since those seats go quick. Charlotte FC uses digital tickets and mobile entry now, so getting in is a breeze.

Recognition, Honors, and Future Prospects

George Marks’s journey to pro soccer shows steady growth and valuable minutes for Charlotte FC. He’s made an impact already, and you get the feeling there’s more to come.

MLS Champions and Accolades

Marks joined Charlotte FC for their 2022 debut season after impressing in preseason. The club hasn’t snagged an MLS Cup yet, but they’re making strides in league play and cup runs.

Marks became a reliable presence in goal, earning praise for his consistency. Before Charlotte, he played at Clemson University and helped them win a national title.

That college experience prepped him for the jump. He’s also spent time on loan with Crown Legacy FC, picking up regular minutes and sharpening his game.

Year	Team	Matches Played	Notable Honors
2022	Charlotte FC	6	Strong preseason showing
2023	Charlotte FC	9	Roster mainstay

Future Growth and Career Outlook

Marks is just getting started in his pro career, and honestly, there’s so much room for him to grow as a goalkeeper. He’s only 25, so you’d have to think his prime is still in front of him.

Charlotte FC’s senior squad keeps giving him chances, and maybe a few loan stints with Crown Legacy FC will sharpen his game even more. You can see him gaining confidence each time he steps out there.

Right now, most folks see Marks as a solid backup, but he’s got that starter vibe. If he keeps getting minutes and puts in the work at training, who knows? Maybe he pushes his way into a starting spot, maybe even grabs some league honors down the road.

Want to keep tabs on his progress? Check out his player profile at Charlotte FC.