San Diego FC (SDFC) announced today the signing of defender Ian Pilcher to a one-year contract through the end of the 2025 MLS season, with club options extending through the 2026, 2027, and 2028 seasons.
Pilcher, 21, was selected 24th overall by SDFC in the first round of the 2025 MLS SuperDraft. A native of Charlotte, North Carolina, he played four seasons at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, making 66 appearances, scoring five goals, and recording one assist.
“This signing is a testament to Ian’s hard work and dedication to his career, especially in the weeks since joining us for preseason,” said SDFC Sporting Director Tyler Heaps. “Ian is a talented young defender with an outstanding attitude and work ethic, and we’re excited to see his growth and contributions at SDFC.”
In 2024, Pilcher earned first-team All-AAC honors while leading the Charlotte 49ers to their second consecutive American Athletic Conference Championship. As team captain, he started 17 matches, scored one goal, and anchored a defense that ranked first nationally in shutout percentage (.579) and 13th in scoring defense (.832). Pilcher also earned AAC Defensive Player of the Week honors twice and was named AAC Honorable Mention of the Week once.
