Charlie Gonzalez Extends Contract For Five Years
The San Diego Sockers - presented by Kaiser Permanente - announced today the contract extension of midfielder Juan Carlos "Charlie" Gonzalez. As a member of the Sockers since the 2021-22 season, Gonzalez has agreed to a five-year extension with the club. As per MASL regulations, the terms of the contract will not be released.
Gonzalez, 29, tallied 23 goals and hoisted the Ron Newman Cup in his debut year with the Sockers in 2021/22. He has been a contributing factor to the Sockers’ success with 44 goals and 35 assists in regular and postseason play, eight of the goals being game-winners. He earned 2021/22 All-MASL Second Team honors.
Prior to his arrival, he had played for the Ontario Fury (renamed Empire Strykers) since the 2015-16 season. The midfielder left as their all-time leading scorer, netting 119 goals along with 83 assists in his seven-year stay in Ontario.
In 2020-21, the midfielder represented the West region in the MASL All-Star Game where he proved his status by logging two goals and one assist in the West team’s win.
Sockers General Manager Sean Bowers said, "We cannot contain our excitement in ensuring Gonzalez’s future with the club over the next five years. His success in the league, and since his arrival with the Sockers, has made this decision easy. We’re thrilled to continue witnessing the pivotal role he plays for us and the potential he will reach, bringing more trophies to San Diego.”
Born in Jalisco, Mexico but raised in Lancaster, CA, Gonzalez attended Quartz Hill High School and Taft College before going on to play collegiately at Cal State San Bernadino. One of six siblings, Gonzalez played alongside his brother Jose on the Fury in 2020-21.
Gonzalez stated, "Staying in San Diego was a priority for me. I am excited to play on a championship-caliber team and I will do what I can to help us win."
Gonzalez joins other notable players receiving contract extensions this offseason such as Mitchell Cardenas, Cesar Cerda, and Christian Gutierrez. The extensions of these players, along with notable free-agent signings are part of the efforts to return to the MASL Finals.
The Sockers will return to Pechanga Arena San Diego for the upcoming season beginning in December. The full MASL schedule is expected to be announced this fall. Season ticket memberships are available by calling (866) 799-GOAL, or online at sdsockers.com/memberships.