The start of the 2023 USL Championship season is still a few months away but Birmingham Legion FC has started solidifying its roster for the upcoming season over the last month, resigning three players who have played a key role in the club's short history.
Defender Alex Crognale will be back with Legion after signing a new multi-year contract in early November. Crognale just finished his third year with Birmingham, playing in all but two games during the 2022 season. He has made 74 appearances across three seasons with the Legion.
“We are building something really special here in Birmingham,” Crognale said. “I came here to win games and fight for trophies and that job isn’t finished yet. I look forward to the next few years with this club and continuing to connect and make a difference in the community.”
The Legion also recently announced Mikey Lopez has agreed to a new multi-year contract. Lopez has been with the Legion since its inaugural season in 2019, making 101 appearances for the club playing as both a midfielder and a defender.
“Mikey is another key member of our core that we are excited to bring back to Birmingham as we look to 2023,” Legion FC President and General Manager Jay Heaps said. “He’s been here since day one, and his ability to play multiple positions at a high level and his leadership in the locker room bring great value to the club.”
He finished this season with 32 appearances, was second in interceptions (49), tied for third in tackles (60), fourth in blocks (14) and clearances (38), and was tenth on the team in shots (13) and chances created (16) while adding two assists.
“I’m really excited to sign with Birmingham again,” said Lopez. “I think we showed that we have a strong team this past season, and we have some unfinished business. I’m excited to help this team reach another level.”
Earlier this week, Birmingham announced Phanuel Kavita is also returning on a multi-year contract. Kavita started and wore the captain's armband in every game of the 2022 season. He also led the team in blocks (35), finished second in clearances (99) and fifth in interceptions (33).
“Excited to be back with a great group of guys and staff,” said Kavita. “Birmingham is a place I’ve really enjoyed being, with great fans, and has so much potential for continued growth. I’m very excited to be back."