The Charleston Battery are delighted to confirm the signing of forward Jake LaCava to a multi-year contract on Friday, pending league and federation approval. The 22-year-old striker brings with him experience from Major League Soccer sides New York Red Bulls and Inter Miami CF.
A proven threat on offense, LaCava has been one of the top forwards on the rise in the U.S. and was a finalist for the 2022 USL Championship Young Player of the Year. He now joins the defending Eastern Conference champions.
“I’m really looking forward to getting to work with the guys and the group here; playing, competing, winning games and improving every day,” said LaCava. “I’m also excited about the experience of living somewhere as nice as Charleston. I’ve heard great things about the area and community and can’t wait to see everything.
“I’ve played against Charleston multiple times over the years and each time I’ve loved the atmosphere inside the stadium. After seeing the Battery have such a good season last year, I’m looking to help build on that by adding what I do best. It’s a very good squad and I’m eager to contribute to the success of the upcoming season.”
LaCava has made his mark in the Championship with Red Bulls II and the Tampa Bay Rowdies the past four seasons, scoring 26 goals and 18 assists in over 100 appearances across the regular season and playoffs. He’s a dynamic player who excels in one-on-one situations and in creating chances for his teammates.
The 6-0 attacker is a graduate of the Red Bulls academy and signed with the MLS side in 2022 before being loaned to Tampa Bay, becoming the Rowdies second-best goalscorer that year. He was acquired by Inter Miami in 2023, making his club debut in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup Third Round.
Head Coach Ben Pirmann is keen on incorporating LaCava into Charleston’s offense.
“Jake has demonstrated his abilities to be one of the best young players, and one of the better-attacking players overall, in the USL,” said Coach Pirmann. “He has had excellent experiences within MLS as well, showcasing his talents and capabilities.
“LaCava is a fearless and direct attacker that can play in a variety of forward positions. He can score, create, and set up his teammates and will work his socks off for our club and his teammates.”
A native of New Milford, Conn., LaCava ascended his game with the Barça Residency Academy and LA Galaxy’s academy before joining New York. He was also called into camps for the U.S. U-16 and U-18 national teams.
LaCava, a player Battery fans will recognize from his time on opposing teams, is elated about donning the Black and Yellow and playing for the Lowcountry now.
“My message to the supporters is that I’m super excited to be here and to get the chance to play in front of you all,” said LaCava. “I’m really excited to show you what I can do in a Charleston shirt. I’m a hard-working player, so you can expect me to give my all for the jersey, the club and the city every time I step onto the field.”
2024 Roster
Goalkeepers: Trey Muse, Daniel Kuzemka
Defenders: Leland Archer, Josh Drack, Juan Sebastian Palma, Mark Segbers, Graham Smith
Midfielders: Chris Allan, Fidel Barajas, Robbie Crawford, Aaron Molloy, Arturo Rodriguez, Emilio Ycaza
Forwards: Jake LaCava, Nick Markanich, Tristan Trager
Jake is in for 2024, join him! Upgrade your Battery supporter experience with a Season Membership. Members enjoy several exclusive benefits, including significant per-match savings, Member-only events, team store discounts and more! Explore all the options today:
