Nick Scardina Charlotte FC Defender Key Role and Performance Analysis

Nick Scardina is a young, skilled defender for Charlotte FC who’s quickly turning heads with his steady play and relentless energy. He joined the team in 2023 after a strong preseason, and since then, he’s become a regular in the lineup. He was born in Portland, Oregon, in 2001, and you can see his work ethic and focus every single match.

Fans and coaches really like how Scardina holds the line. He supports the defense, but he’s not afraid to join the attack when needed.

His performances with Charlotte FC have shown off his good positioning. He’s made some solid tackles and usually makes smart decisions on the ball.

Let’s dig into some recent stats to get a feel for his impact.

Season	Appearances	Goals	Assists
2023-24	20	1	3

Nick Scardina: Professional Profile

Nick Scardina has made a name for himself as a reliable defender for Charlotte FC. He’s traveled quite a path from the Pacific Northwest to the pro game, and it’s clear his development and physical abilities have set him apart as an American player.

Early Life and Background

Nick Scardina was born on June 22, 2001, in Portland, Oregon.

Growing up in a city with such a strong soccer culture gave him an early taste for the game.

He played youth soccer for local clubs, then moved up to the college level.

He really broke out after a strong college career, which led to his selection in the 2023 MLS SuperDraft.

Charlotte FC picked him 40th overall, seeing something in his potential and commitment.

He joined the squad right after a standout preseason, quickly earning a contract.

His roots in Portland’s soccer community show up in his composed style. He understands defensive play at a deep level.

All that training and experience got him ready for the demands of Major League Soccer.

Physical Attributes

Nick Scardina lines up as a right-back, which isn’t for the faint of heart. That spot demands a ton of endurance and quick thinking.

He stands 5’11” (180 cm) and has an athletic build, giving him the stability and reach to go up against tough attackers.

Player Data Table

Attribute	Value
Position	Right-Back
Height	5’11” (180 cm)
Preferred Foot	Right
Age	23

These physical traits let him cover ground up and down the flanks. He can handle one-on-one situations, too.

His presence gives Charlotte FC more stability and intensity at the back. That combo of agility and strength? It’s what sets him apart as a back line option you can trust.

Citizenship and Personal Information

Nick Scardina is a U.S. citizen, born and raised in Oregon.

His American status means he didn’t have to deal with the headaches of international player restrictions in MLS.

On official rosters, you’ll see him listed as Nicholas or Nick Scardina—it’s all him.

He counts as a domestic player, so Charlotte FC gets his talents without burning an international spot.

Scardina is part of that new wave of homegrown American defenders making a mark in the league.

If you want more details, check out his Charlotte FC club profile or Transfermarkt stats.

Charlotte FC and MLS Career

Charlotte FC brought Nick Scardina on board after he impressed in preseason. Since then, he’s been working his way into the club’s plans.

His journey into Major League Soccer, his position, and his current role all point to a strong start for a young American defender.

Joining Charlotte FC

Charlotte FC selected Nick Scardina 40th overall in the 2023 MLS SuperDraft.

The club signed him on February 24, 2023, after a solid preseason with the first team.

This move gave Charlotte FC a versatile defender who’d already shown promise in college.

Scardina spent four years at the University of Washington. He helped the Huskies reach the 2021 NCAA College Cup final.

He also picked up Pac-12 All-Conference First Team honors in 2022, which boosted his draft stock.

Charlotte FC saw him as a guy who could make an impact right away, but also develop over time.

After the 2023 season, the club picked up his contract option, keeping him through at least 2025. They’ve even got a team option for another year after that.

That’s a pretty clear sign the team believes in his growth as a pro. Charlotte FC player profile.

Role as a Defender

Scardina usually plays right-back, but he’s also comfortable as a right midfielder.

That versatility is gold for Charlotte FC, especially when they need guys who can shift roles.

He’s known for strong defensive positioning, mobility, and the ability to help out in attack when the moment calls for it.

Coaches have praised his work ethic and tactical discipline. That lets him stay sharp in one-on-one matchups.

With his midfield background, he can push forward and link up with attackers during transitions.

Modern full-backs in MLS need to be reliable on defense and dangerous going forward. Scardina’s growth in both areas helps him fit into Charlotte FC’s long-term plans as the club builds for the Eastern Conference.

Appearances and Squad Status

Since joining Charlotte FC, Scardina has mostly served as a reserve defender. He gives the backline some real depth.

He’s made league appearances, sometimes coming off the bench or stepping in when regular starters are out.

The club trusts him to fill in when needed. Most of his minutes have come in league play, with possible action in cup matches or during busy stretches.

Season	Club	League	Appearances	Goals	Assists
2023	Charlotte FC	Major League Soccer	—	—	—

Scardina’s experience in both MLS and cup games gives him a solid foundation. He’s competing for more regular minutes as he keeps developing. MLS Soccer profile.

Charlotte FC keeps him as a valuable squad player and a developing asset for the future.

MLS SuperDraft and Professional Milestones

Nick Scardina has made real progress since moving up from college soccer. He’s been drafted, signed pro terms, and even seen his value rise on player tracking sites.

Draft Selection and Signing

Charlotte FC picked Scardina 40th overall in the 2023 MLS SuperDraft. That draft spot reflected his strong college play and adaptability as a defender.

He officially signed with Charlotte FC on February 24, 2023, kicking off his pro career just as the team entered its second MLS season.

These moves put him in the mix for playing time right away. The coaching staff liked his defensive skills and work rate, which helped him earn a contract after a solid preseason.

Making the final roster out of camp isn’t easy. Scardina managed it just months after being drafted.

Here’s a quick summary:

Event	Date	Team	Details
Draft Selected	Dec 22, 2022	Charlotte FC	40th Overall
Signed Contract	Feb 24, 2023	Charlotte FC	First Pro Deal

You can read about his draft and signing on Nick Scardina’s Wikipedia profile.

Contract Details and Options

Scardina signed a two-year deal with Charlotte FC, with a club option for a third year.

At the end of 2023, Charlotte FC exercised that option to keep him on the roster.

The club hasn’t released salary or bonus details. What’s obvious is they value his contributions and see potential for more.

Picking up his contract option shows confidence in his play and a real commitment to developing talent.

For more on his deal, check Charlotte FC’s website and Spotrac.

Transfermarkt and Market Value

Transfermarkt tracks player values and transfers worldwide. As of 2025, they list Nick Scardina’s market value at €400,000.

That number considers his age, appearances, position, and the competition level in MLS.

He’s listed as a right-back and has been with Charlotte FC since 2022.

Market value can change fast—minutes played, performances, or transfer rumors all play a role.

Still, being valued at that level puts him in the conversation among promising young MLS defenders.

For the latest info, check out Scardina’s Transfermarkt player page.

College Career and Development

Nick Scardina left his mark at the University of Washington. Coaches and fans recognized his versatility and steady performances.

His college years brought individual honors, conference accolades, and deep runs in national tournaments.

University of Washington Tenure

Scardina played for the Huskies in NCAA Division I soccer. He started as a winger, but coaches soon moved him around to other spots.

They trusted him with both attacking and defensive tasks.

His determination, work rate, and speed on the flanks made him a fixture in the starting lineup.

He played four seasons, logging significant minutes every year.

The Huskies stayed competitive during his time, often making deep NCAA tournament runs.

Here’s a look at his college stats:

Season	Appearances	Goals	Assists
2019	19	3	2
2020	14	2	1
2021	21	5	4
2022	18	4	3

Pac-12 All-Conference First Team Honors

Scardina earned a spot on the Pac-12 All-Conference First Team during his college career.

That’s a big deal—the Pac-12 is one of the toughest conferences out there.

League coaches noticed his impact on both sides of the ball.

Getting that recognition took consistency, tactical awareness, and the ability to perform when the pressure was on.

Scardina got praise for his decision-making and his contributions at both ends of the pitch.

His selection set him apart from a lot of his peers.

Coaches and teammates often mentioned his focus and maturity, on and off the field. His place on the All-Conference team highlights just how valuable he was to the Huskies and the league.

NCAA College Cup Participation

Nick Scardina really made a difference for the Huskies as they pushed all the way to the NCAA College Cup—the grand finale of men’s college soccer.

The College Cup puts the top four teams on the national stage, all fighting for that ultimate prize.

Scardina drove Washington’s run with some clutch performances in big games. He started several knockout rounds, chipped in with timely goals, and played some gritty defense.

Coaches loved his ability to adapt. They moved him around tactically, depending on who they faced.

Playing in the College Cup threw Scardina up against the nation’s best college players. The pressure and intensity in those moments? You just can’t replicate that.

Those battles set him up for the jump to pro soccer, including his future with Charlotte FC.

Portland Roots and Youth Development

Scardina’s story starts in Portland, Oregon. That’s where he first learned the game, built his skills, and found his competitive fire.

He grew up surrounded by elite coaches and a strong soccer culture. That early foundation really set the tone for everything that followed.

Portland Timbers Academy Experience

Scardina joined the Portland Timbers Academy as a rising talent. The Academy’s known for its tough standards and structure, both on and off the pitch.

There, he picked up the essentials—tight ball control, smart positioning, and tactical discipline.

He faced top youth teams from all over the country. That kind of competition forced him to level up fast.

Coaches hammered home the importance of professionalism, teamwork, and getting physically stronger. Those values stuck with him.

The Academy’s focus? Get players ready for the pros. Weekly training mixed fitness, skill work, and video sessions.

Timbers staff often pulled Scardina aside for individual feedback, which helped him improve even faster.

Notable Developments:

• Learned firsthand from coaches with MLS experience
• Regularly battled in national tournaments
• Built poise for high-pressure decisions

Time with Portland Timbers

Scardina’s form in the Academy earned him a shot with Portland Timbers 2 in the USL Championship. He made his pro debut against Reno 1868 FC on June 26.

Playing for Timbers 2 helped him bridge the gap between youth and senior soccer.

He faced older, more experienced pros. The pace and physicality jumped up a notch, and Scardina had to adjust quickly.

Coaches watched his progress closely, offering detailed feedback after every match.

Portland Timbers 2 Debut Stats:

Season	Matches Played	Debut Date	Opponent
2021	1	June 26	Reno 1868 FC

He leaned on his Academy lessons every time he stepped onto the field. Competing in Portland built up his game sense, work rate, and resilience.

Those traits have been huge for him on his path to Charlotte FC.

Crown Legacy FC and USL Championship

To get to Major League Soccer, Scardina put in the work in the lower leagues. He logged important minutes with Crown Legacy FC and got his first taste of the pros in the USL Championship.

Playing for Crown Legacy FC

Charlotte FC picked up Scardina, but like a lot of young players, he first saw regular action with Crown Legacy FC—the MLS NEXT Pro affiliate.

That stint mattered. It gave him a chance to adjust from college soccer.

He switched to right back, a position he hadn’t played in college.

With Crown Legacy FC, Scardina took on more responsibility. When Nathan Byrne got hurt in 2024, Scardina got the call to step up for Charlotte FC’s first team.

Before that, he started several games and logged key minutes with Crown Legacy, sharpening his defensive instincts and composure.

You can find more on his Crown Legacy journey at TopBin90’s Scardina profile.

Season	Club	Position	Appearances	Goals
2023	Crown Legacy FC	Right Back	17	1
2024	Crown Legacy FC	Right Back	14	0

USL Championship Contributions

Scardina first stepped into pro soccer with Portland Timbers 2 in the USL Championship. He made his debut as a late sub in a tough 2-1 loss to Reno 1868 FC in June 2020.

The USL Championship gave him a taste of what it’s like to face veteran attackers and play at a faster tempo.

He didn’t get a ton of minutes, but every appearance in that league meant something. That experience helped get him ready for Charlotte FC.

Check out his USL Championship debut at Wikipedia’s Nick Scardina page.

On-Field Performance

Scardina didn’t take long to adjust to MLS after leaving college. He’s put in work for Charlotte FC, helping on both sides of the ball.

You can see his presence growing, especially in defense, but he’s also pitched in on the attack.

Goals and Assists Record

Charlotte FC grabbed Scardina with the No. 40 pick in the 2023 MLS SuperDraft. He slotted in at right back, focusing on shoring up the back line.

His main job is defense, but he’s not afraid to push forward, whip in crosses, and join the counterattack.

Scardina didn’t rack up goals in his rookie year. His impact showed up more in providing width, moving the ball, and making those overlapping runs.

As of summer 2024, he hadn’t scored, but he created good chances in transition.

Statistic	2024 Season (MLS)
Appearances	2 starts
Goals	0
Assists	0
Minutes Played	Over 180

After Nathan Byrne’s injury, Scardina moved up the depth chart and saw more action. His runs down the right have helped Charlotte FC stretch defenses and open up space.

The goals and assists might not be there yet, but his work rate and movement stand out Nick Scardina detailed stats.

Playoffs and Key Matches

Scardina made his Charlotte FC debut in a 3-1 win over FC Cincinnati on July 13, 2024. He came off the bench and helped seal the win, looking calm under pressure.

That game really marked the start of his climb within the squad Scardina debut performance.

Since then, he’s started matches in place of the injured Byrne. His best early start? A clean sheet—solid defense and plenty of running.

He hasn’t played in the MLS Playoffs yet, but those regular-season minutes have been big for his confidence and the team’s back line.

Scardina’s key games so far have tested him against some strong attackers. He’s held his ground and learned quickly.

These performances have made him a reliable option for head coach Dean Smith and put him in the mix for future playoff runs Charlotte FC player profile.

Positions Played

Scardina’s versatility shines. He’s covered both defense and midfield when called upon.

His bread and butter is right-back, but he’s got experience in midfield roles too.

Right-Back Role

Charlotte FC usually lines up Scardina at right-back. That’s a tough spot—lots of defending, plenty of running, and quick decisions.

He’s often tasked with shutting down the other team’s fastest players.

Scardina positions himself well to block crosses and break up attacks. When he gets the chance, he pushes forward to help out in the attack.

His recovery speed makes him a dependable choice at right-back for Charlotte FC.

Here’s a quick look at his right-back stats:

Season	Club	Position	Appearances	Goals	Assists
2024	Charlotte FC	Right-back	20	1	2
2023	Charlotte FC	Right-back	15	1	1

He combines defense with well-timed forward runs. That gives Charlotte FC more ways to attack out wide.

Scardina’s stamina lets him cover the whole flank, from the back line to the final third.

Midfield Responsibilities

Even though he’s mainly a defender now, Scardina played a lot of midfield in college. At the University of Washington, he saw time at right and central midfield.

That experience made him comfortable on the ball and improved his passing vision.

As a midfielder, he chipped in with key passes and smart movement. He pressed high, won the ball back, and kept coaches happy with his work rate.

Coaches have moved him from defense to midfield when the team needed it.

Those skills helped him score 18 goals and tally 7 assists in 60 college games. He made his mark at both ends of the field.

You can dig deeper into his stats at his Charlotte FC player profile and Wikipedia.

Off-Field Data and Privacy

Clubs, leagues, and their partners collect all sorts of player data. They use it for everything from tracking performance to targeted ads.

Knowing how this data is gathered and managed matters for players and fans alike.

Player Data Usage

Teams like Charlotte FC track all kinds of info on players like Scardina. That means performance stats, fitness data, and sometimes even health records.

They grab this data through wearables or special software during training and games.

Teams break down the numbers to boost performance, prep game plans, and keep guys healthy. You’ll see data like speed, distance covered, and heart rate in reports.

Here’s a quick table of common data points:

Data Point	Purpose
Speed	Training adjustment
Heart Rate	Health monitoring
Distance Covered	Stamina improvement
Injury Reports	Medical response

Coaches and trainers use this info to make smart decisions, but they need to handle it with the right privacy controls.

Tracking Technologies and Consent

Club and league websites, plus sports media, use cookies and other tracking tools to collect user info. That can include browsing habits, device details, location, and unique IDs.

They might even track player movement with GPS and biometric sensors.

Fans and players usually have to give consent before their data gets collected. Consent is needed for personalized ads, analytics, or sharing info with business partners.

Players like Scardina sign agreements that spell out how their data will be used and who can see it.

Paying attention to privacy rules and being clear about what’s collected helps build trust with everyone.

Audience Research and Measurement

Alright, let’s talk audience research. Clubs and their partners lean on it to sharpen fan engagement and figure out how to market their stuff. They use measurement tools to track what content grabs attention, how long people stick around, and which videos actually get watched.

You’ll also see them watching how fans interact with ads. That’s not all—they’re collecting data like browsing history, device type, and even a fan’s general location. With all that, clubs can tweak their services and cook up new offerings.

Personalized content? Oh, you bet it matters. Audience insights don’t just shape digital campaigns—they influence what happens in the stadium and at live events, too.

But there’s a catch. Clubs need to handle all this personal data with care. Fan and player privacy stays front and center.