South Charlotte Today

Since their inaugural season, Charlotte FC has experienced numerous changes, including new managers, a state-of-the-art facility, and fresh faces in the locker room. Yet through it all, one constant remains: Brandt Bronico.

A native of Carolina, Bronico grew up with dreams of making it to Major League Soccer (MLS) but never imagined he would play for a team in his home state. He certainly did not foresee being the first player to reach 100 appearances for a team that did not exist when he started dreaming. Achieving this milestone was an emotional moment for him.

"It's extremely special for me," said Bronico while trying to hold back tears. "Something that I could literally get emotional about because you never thought something like this would happen. You just go out there and work, wish, and pray for these kinds of things in your career.

"So, it's super special for me and my family, especially because it's our hometown club. They're so close, so we can all share these moments together."

Of the players who suited up for the club’s inaugural 2022 season, only six remain: Kristijan Kahlina, George Marks, Jaylin Lindsey, Ben Bender, Karol Świderski, and Bronico himself. Among them, Bronico stands as the longest-serving player. Signed in December 2020 as the second player ever to join the club, he felt compelled to play for his hometown team from the moment Charlotte FC was announced.

Over the years, Bronico has witnessed both challenges and triumphs as the team evolved.

"It's been really nice to see the steps we've taken as a club forward from inception up to now," Bronico said. "Rome wasn't built in a day. Everything's a process; it takes time to build something great."

"But I think that's what the people here have done. They've taken the necessary steps to make this club better each and every year."

In a squad filled with talent, Bronico is known as a workhorse who gives everything on the pitch every game. Head Coach Dean Smith described him as "the fittest player" he has ever coached—a testament to Bronico's mindset and grit.

Over three seasons, Bronico has logged 7,850 minutes across all competitions for Charlotte FC while adapting to three different head coaches. His consistency reflects his tenacity.

At the beginning of this season, an injury threatened his place in the starting lineup. For some players, such an obstacle could be crushing; for Bronico, it was another challenge to overcome.

“The two biggest things for me are always attitude and effort,” said Bronico. “You can always control those two things no matter what’s happening around you.”

“So I always make sure that I have the best attitude and that I always give my best no matter what.”

Bronico's versatility further distinguishes him as he adapts quickly to new coaching styles and systems.

Ultimately driven by more than personal pride, Bronico represents his city each time he dons Charlotte FC's kit.

“It just means a lot to me. I think the club just means a little more to me since I call this place home,” he said. “I always want to invest everything I have and give everything I have for Charlotte FC.”

This season, more than anything else, Bronico aims to give Charlotte fans something to cheer about.

“Giving fans something to celebrate would be so special,” said Bronico. “They always support us so much; rewarding them with a home playoff game would be amazing.”

Whether or not he pursues political ambitions like running for mayor someday remains uncertain; however one thing is clear—Bronico is deeply connected with his community both on and off the field.

“To have 100 caps for the club that I love so much...man it's special," said Bronico." But now I want 100 more."

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