The Carolina RailHawks have announced the addition of three players to the 2012 roster: defenders John Krause and Sam Stockley as well as midfielder Austin Da Luz. The three have been training with the team this preseason and have played in several of the preseason friendlies.

John Krause returns to the team after playing 15 matches in the 2011 season. Prior to joining the RailHawks, he played in Puerto Rico from 2007 and 2009; he later played in Vietnam and China. Krause was seen as a starter during several preseason games playing alongside former Carolina RailHawks U23’s Austen King as the central defenders.

Sam Stockley joins the RailHawks after impressing the coaching staff during trials and preseason. The English native has over 16 years of professional experience playing primarily in the third and fourth tiers. In all, he has 457 appearances in The Football League. The experienced right back has alternated with Greg Shields during friendlies with the first team.

Austin Da Luz had a stellar career playing for the Demon Deacons at Wake Forest University. He appeared in 80 matches scoring 13 goals while also having 39 assists. The midfielder was part of the highly successful team that went to four Final Fours including a NCAA National Championship in 2007. He also played for Greensboro Soccer Club. He was drafted the New York Red Bulls with the 14th overall pick in the 2010 MLS SuperDraft. He was subsequently traded to D.C. United in 2011. In all, he has appeared in 21 MLS matches, scoring a goal against the Portland Timbers.

“We have added three solid players to our roster. John and Sam have great experience. They are leaders on and off the pitch, which helps the team be more organized. Austin is an extremely talented midfielder that can provide alternatives of attack and a great change of pace,” said Head Coach Colin Clarke.

Prior to the start of the season, the club has released defender Cory Miller.

The RailHawks open their 2012 NASL season on the road visiting the defending champions, Minnesota, on April 7^th. The game will be broadcasted live online at www.CarolinaRailHawks.com. The 2012 Home Opener will be on April 14th when Atlanta comes to face the RailHawks at WakeMed Soccer Park. Tickets for the match, as well as season tickets, are available online at www.CarolinaRailHawks.com or at the Cruizers Box office. For information or to purchase, call 919-459-8144 or by email at Tickets@CarolinaRailHawks.com.