CHARLESTON, S.C. – The Charleston Battery announced on Tuesday the club had signed forward Kyle Holcomb, pending league and federation approval. A former United States Youth National Team player, Holcomb joins the Black and Yellow after previously being picked 29th overall in the 2022 MLS SuperDraft by Charlotte FC.

“It feels amazing to sign with the Battery, I think most people, myself included, dream of playing professionally when they start a sport, so to be able to do that is just incredible,” said Holcomb. “I’m really looking forward to getting to play for such a historic club and city. Being able to represent a badge with so much history means a lot to me and I’m hoping to do it proud.”

The 22-year-old California native competed with Charlotte during the 2022 preseason and scored in its friendly against the Grenada Men’s National Team on February 1.

Before turning pro, Holcomb had a decorated four-year career at Wake Forest University, where he finished ranked tied for seventh-most in career goals (33) in program history. The forward earned All-America honors following his senior year from United Soccer Coaches and College Soccer News after tallying 12 goals and four assists in 20 starts. Holcomb was additionally named to the All-Atlantic Coast Conference First Team, All-ACC Academic Team and United Soccer Coaches All-South Region selection First Team.

With the Demon Deacons, Holcomb made 71 appearances across four seasons. Holcomb helped Wake Forest earn a place in the NCAA Tournament each year he was there, including a run to the College Cup in 2019. He also won the 2018 regular season conference title his freshman year.

“Kyle has really impressed since he arrived here, he’s got a ton of energy, his mentality is right, and he’s got a knack for putting himself in good places to score,” said Battery Head Coach Conor Casey. “He was a mainstay for Wake Forest, playing a lot of different roles and influencing games in a positive manner. Kyle has a lot of leadership qualities and we’re looking forward to having him out there with us this year.”

On the international stage, Holcomb made his debut with the U.S. U-19 National Team on May 7, 2018, in the 2018 Slovakia Cup against the Kazakhstan U-19’s, scoring one goal in the 8-0 victory. He additionally appeared in the 3-0 win over Azerbaijan U-18’s during the friendly tournament, recording one assist.

Holcomb said the transition to Charleston has been made easier by the chemistry and camaraderie within the squad.

“It’s awesome to share a locker room with so many great players I can learn from and ask questions,” said Holcomb. “The coaching staff has been really helpful and having fellow Wake Forest alumnus Chris Duvall here has been invaluable. Chris has gone out of his way to help me and teach me a lot in the short time I’ve been here.”