USL Championship veteran has seven caps from the Jamaican National Team
PAPILLION, Neb. (February 24, 2022) – Union Omaha announced today the signing USL Championship veteran and Jamaican National Team player Chavany Willis, pending league and federation approval. Willis is the club’s first player acquisition in the international transfer market.
Willis spent the majority of his career playing for Jamaica’s National Premier League giant Portmore United FC before being loaned out to USL Championship member Philadelphia Union II in 2019. Upon completion of the 2019 season Willis returned to Jamaica’s National Premier League where he was discovered by Union Omaha Assistant Coach Bobby Murphy while playing for Arnett Gardens FC.
“During my trip to Jamaica, I saw a lot of talent on the island,” said Murphy. “I immediately recognized that Chavany stood out and the more I watched him over the course of the match, I thought he’d be a great fit for our style and our club. After speaking with him, I recognized his humility and desire for success. I’m excited to see him succeed with us this season.”
“We recognized a need on our roster and Bobby went and found that player in Jamaica,” said Union Omaha General Manager Peter Marlette. “Chavany is a full Jamaican international and we were thrilled to reach an agreement with Arnett Gardens to get him here to Omaha.”
“I am very excited to join such a great club,” said Willis. “I look forward to the season and helping to bring more success to this club.”
Phonetic pronunciation of name: [CHA-VAH-NEY WILL-ESS]
Position: Midfielder
Height: 6’1”
Weight: 161 lbs
Born: Kingston, Jamacia
Hometown: Trench Town, Jamacia
The 2022 League One Championship defending campaign is set to begin on April 9 with a visit to Forward Madison FC. The home opener at Werner Park is set for April 23 vs. USL1 newcomer Central Valley Fuego FC. Season tickets and undated voucher packs for the 2022 season are currently available via UnionOmaha.com or the Werner Park Ticket Office by calling 402-738-5100.
ABOUT UNION OMAHA Union Omaha, the 2021 USL League One Champion, is the only professional soccer team in the state of Nebraska. USL League One is a United States Soccer Federation-sanctioned professional men’s soccer league that occupies the third tier of the American soccer landscape, below USL Championship (tier two) and Major League Soccer (tier one). Union Omaha plays its home matches at Werner Park in Sarpy County, also home to the Omaha Storm Chasers of Minor League Baseball. The team is led by General Manager Peter Marlette in the front office and by Head Coach Jay Mims on the field.
