Armada adds two defenders

NASL veteran Drew Beckie, Orlando native Michael O'Sullivan join team

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The Jacksonville Armada continues to add to their roster in advance of the 2017 North American Soccer League season, signing a pair of defenders, former Ottawa Fury and Carolina RailHawks starter Drew Beckie and Orlando native Michael O'Sullivan.

Beckie, 26, played for the Fury in 2014 and 2015 before moving to Carolina last season, starting 19 matches in 23 appearances in 2016. Originally a draft pick of the Columbus Crew in the 2013 MLS Super Draft, Beckie earned the NASL Humanitarian of the Year award for his efforts with the Walking in Grief's Shadow (WINGS) program that helps kids dealing with the loss of a parent.

Beckie was a star at the University of Denver and was named the team's most valuable player in 2011.

“Drew is the total package,” said head coach Mark Lowry. “He is a player who will suit our style of play perfectly, a great athlete who possesses impressive technique and composure on the ball. Off the field, we have added a man of great character and another leader in the locker room.”

O’Sullivan, 21, will make his NASL debut with the Armada during 2017 as a a center back. The recent graduate of Palm Beach Atlantic University is an Orlando native and a product of the Orlando City Development Academy.

“Michael is a young center back who we have great belief in,” said Lowry. “He has the tools and attitude to go far in the game, and we are proud to give him that opportunity.”

The Armada open their 2017 preseason with an intra-squad scrimmage Saturday at Patton Park and begin their third season in the NASL on April 2 at UNF's Hodges Stadium against FC Edmonton.