BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – Birmingham Legion FC announced on Tuesday the club had signed center back Alex Crognale to a new multi-year contract, pending league and federation approval.

“As we begin to focus on the 2023 season, we’re excited to extend Alex’s time here in Birmingham,” said Legion FC President and General Manager Jay Heaps. “He has proven to be a great center back in this league, he’s a leader in our locker room, and we think he’s a big part of our team.”

Crognale recently completed his third season in the Magic City, missing only two games across the regular season and playoffs as he led the team in clearances (136), aerial duels (124), aerial duels won (80), and interceptions (53). He also finished the year with the second-most passes (1,527 at an 80.1% pass completion rate), third in blocks (18), sixth in tackles (39), and notched one goal.

A native of Columbus, Ohio earned Team of the Week nods twice in 2022, once for his defensive efforts in a 1-0 win at Phoenix in Week 13, and again after a 1-1 draw at Tampa Bay in Week 29.

“We are building something really special here in Birmingham,” said Crognale. “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.”