The Carolina RailHawks have announced the signing of two midfielders for the upcoming season. Tiyiselani “Ty” Shipalane will return to the RailHawks after playing in his native country, South Africa, and Mike Palacio joins the club after leading the Fort Lauderdale Strikers to 2011 NASL Championship Final Series.
Fans will most remember Shipalane, as the electrifying midfielder that joined the RailHawks in late 2010. Shipalane showed fans and opponents what he could bring to the pitch, with his speed and vision. He gained positive reviews from fans during his short spell and he looks to build from there. The South African has previously donned jerseys for DC United (MLS), Harrisburg City Islanders (USL), and most recently Pretoria of the National First Division (South Africa).
Mike Palacio comes to the RailHawks following a great season with the Strikers, helping them reach the NASL Championship Finals. A standout at Stony Brook University, Palacio is the school’s all-time leader in assists (26) and led Stony Brook to the school’s record setting season in 2005 that included their first NCAA Tournament appearance. Palacio was drafted by the New York Red Bulls with the 21st pick in the 2008 MLS Supplemental Draft.
“Mike and Ty are very creative midfielders that can cause nightmares for opposing defenses,” said head coach Colin Clarke. “Both are players that are able to setup teammates for goals and are capable of scoring themselves.”
Shipalane, Palacio, and the 2012 RailHawks will make their debut on Sunday, March 4 at 3:00 pm against Vancouver Whitecaps FC. Fans may purchase tickets for the match through the Community Shield Pack and Season Tickets are on sale now. Individual tickets can be purchased on February 1. For more information on RailHawks tickets and game details call the Cruizers box office at 919-459-8144 or e-mail
Tickets@CarolinaRailHawks.com.
