MLS expansion side Charlotte FC has signed goalkeeper George Marks and defender Koa Santos through the 2022 season with club options from 2023 to 2025. 

Marks comes in as a third-round selection in the 2022 Major League Soccer SuperDraft, while Santos went undrafted.

“We’re excited to sign both George and Koa to their first professional contracts. The pair have shown impressive work ethics throughout the preseason, and both earned their opportunities to be part of our inaugural roster,” sporting director Zoran Krneta said in a release. 

“George and Koa have proven to our technical staff they are ready to become professional footballers through their play in training and friendlies, and we’re excited to see them both develop with us at Charlotte FC.”

Prior to signing a contract, Marks spent the last three years as the starting goalkeeper for Clemson University. He led his side to the 2021 NCAA national championship as a senior, and recorded 47 wins, 21 shutouts and 6,031 minutes for the Tigers overall. 

Pen to paper ? @georgemarks_24 x @koa_santos pic.twitter.com/9ow8eoVEUy

— Charlotte FC (@CharlotteFC) February 22, 2022

Santos spent four years at San Diego State University before joining Charlotte FC, where he recorded 58 appearances. He also formed part of the Portland Timbers Under 23 group, and inspired that side to the 2021 Western Conference Championship in USL League Two.

The newest signings come in time for Charlotte’s MLS debut on February 26 when traveling to Audi Field to face D.C. United.