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Sporting Jax Signs Three Key Defensive Players

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Thursday, January 8th 2026 at 13:09 GMT by Action News Jax

Jacksonville, FL - January 8th, 2026 - The excitement is building in Jacksonville as Sporting Jax, the city's newest professional soccer club, continues to assemble its roster ahead of its inaugural season in the National Premier Soccer League (NPSL). Yesterday, the club officially announced the signing of three key defensive players: Brandon Stewart, Ryan Cluett, and Kyle Roberts, signaling a commitment to building a strong foundation for the team's success. These initial signings represent a blend of local talent and collegiate experience, painting a picture of the team's approach to player acquisition.

Sporting Jax's entry into the NPSL is a significant moment for soccer in Jacksonville, offering local fans a new avenue to support professional athletes and experience the passion of the beautiful game. The NPSL itself is a semi-professional league known for its competitive atmosphere and often serves as a stepping stone for players aspiring to higher levels of competition. The league's structure allows for local clubs to cultivate a strong fan base and develop talent within their communities.

Let's take a closer look at the three players who will be donning the Sporting Jax colors:

Brandon Stewart - Local Prodigy Returns Home

Brandon Stewart's signing is particularly noteworthy, as he's a Jacksonville native, having graduated from Bartram Trail High School. His return to the area after a collegiate career at the University of Central Florida (UCF) is a testament to the club's desire to embrace its local roots. Stewart's familiarity with the Jacksonville soccer scene and his potential to connect with local fans will undoubtedly be valuable assets for Sporting Jax.

Ryan Cluett - Collegiate Starter Brings Stability

Ryan Cluett arrives with a pedigree of collegiate success, having been a four-year starter at the University of North Carolina-Wilmington (UNCW). Four-year starters are rare at the collegiate level and typically denote a player who consistently demonstrates leadership, dedication, and a high level of skill. Cluett's experience and proven ability to perform under pressure will be crucial for stabilizing the Sporting Jax defense.

Kyle Roberts - Lenoir-Rhyne Experience Adds Depth

Completing the trio is Kyle Roberts, who honed his skills at Lenoir-Rhyne University. While details about his specific role and contributions at Lenoir-Rhyne are currently limited in publicly available information, the club clearly sees potential in Roberts to contribute to the team's overall defensive strength. His inclusion demonstrates a deliberate effort to diversify the team's skillset and build depth in key positions.

Head Coach Paul Babij's Vision

Sporting Jax Head Coach Paul Babij expressed his enthusiasm for the new additions, stating, "These three players bring a great deal of experience and talent to our club. We're excited to get them on the field and competing." Babij's comments underscore the club's commitment to building a competitive team and fostering a winning culture from the outset.

The signings of Stewart, Cluett, and Roberts are just the first steps in Sporting Jax's journey. Fans can expect further announcements regarding additional players and team details in the coming weeks. The club's social media channels and website will be the primary sources for updates. The team faces a considerable challenge in establishing itself within the NPSL, but with a solid foundation of local support and a promising roster, Sporting Jax is poised to become a significant addition to Jacksonville's sporting landscape.