Republic FC Signs Defender Ryan Spaulding
Republic FC has signed Ryan Spaulding, a versatile left-sided defender, pending league and federation approval.
“Ryan is a great addition to our left side,” said Republic FC President and General Manager Todd Dunivant. “He’s bringing a wealth of experience across various levels of American soccer, and we’re confident he will be an excellent fit in Sacramento.”
Spaulding most recently played for Tampa Bay Rowdies in the USL Championship, on loan from MLS side New England Revolution. Under newly appointed Republic FC Head Coach Neill Collins, he made nine appearances in 2023, recording two goals and an assist across four consecutive matches, earning two Team of the Week selections and a Player of the Month nomination. He also had a brief return to the Rowdies on loan in 2024.
The 26-year-old originally joined New England Revolution in 2020 with the club’s second team and made 53 appearances across USL League One and MLS NEXT Pro. He was promoted to the first team in 2022, signing a new contract and featuring in 36 matches across MLS, Leagues Cup, Concacaf Champions Cup, and the U.S. Open Cup.
A former UNC Charlotte standout, Spaulding helped the 49ers win the 2016 Conference USA regular-season title and earned All-Conference USA Freshman Team honors. He later played for North Carolina FC U23, leading the team with five goals, before signing his first professional contract with French third-division club Stade Briochin in 2018. He returned to the U.S. in 2019, signing with North Carolina FC.
With top-flight experience and attacking ability from the backline, Spaulding adds depth and quality to Republic FC’s defense for the 2025 USL Championship season.