March 20, 2006

Atlanta, GA - Joe Afful, an anchor for the Atlanta Silverbacks' defense, signed a contract that will keep him in the Silverbacks jersey for another two years. Afful started every game for the Silverbacks last season and played 1,918 minutes. Afful says signing the new contract was an easy decision,

"I am very happy to be returning to the Silverbacks, it wasn't a difficult decision for me at all. I like the direction the club is moving and I am very happy to be a part of it. I believe with the new acquisitions and the core of last year's team returning, we will be able to finish what we started last year with Jason Smith as the head coach."

Afful, 6-1, 180, began his professional career with the Silverbacks in 2004; prior to joining the Silverbacks he trained with the New England Revolution. During his collegiate years at St. Francis College and Adelphi University, Afful spent the summers playing in the USL's Premier Development League. In 2001, Afful played for the Westchester Flames when the team won the PDL Championship; he also played with the Brooklyn Knights. While at St. Francis College Afful served as team captain and received Northeast Conference First Team honors in 2001 and 2002. Afful completed his college eligibility at Adelphi University where he received Atlantic Soccer Conference First Team honors.

The home season starts on Saturday, June 3 against long-time rival, the Charleston Battery, with a fireworks display following the game. Call 1-866-GO-BACKS or visit www.atlantasilverbacks.com for more information.