Westchester Soccer Club Inks Former MLSer and Jamaican Player Kemar Lawrence

The Westchester Soccer Club (United Soccer League League One) today announced the monumental signing of its first-ever player, bringing former Major League Soccer (MLS) and Jamaican International wing back Kemar Lawrence to the team.

Lawrence, who has played over 185 MLS contests and 77 Jamaican senior men’s national games, will be a vital member of the squad both on the pitch and in the community in the club’s inaugural USL League One season, which begins play in April at Memorial Field in Mount Vernon, N.Y.

Additionally, Lawrence was in the MLS Best XI in 2018 and Concacaf Gold Cup Best XI in 2017, plus an MLS all-star in 2019.

Knowing just how talented he is on the pitch and well-versed beyond the soccer field in business affairs and community relations, WSC majority owner Mitch Baruchowitz is thrilled to have Lawerence as a part of the franchise, he noted.

“Kemar Lawrence has been a leader on and off the pitch everywhere he has played, and it is an honor to have him be the first player to join us as we head towards our franchise launch in April,” Baruchowitz said in a press release. “His presence sets a very strong tone both in the soccer community and in the business world as to the type of athlete we will be bringing here; someone who understands winning and professionalism and what playing in the New York area means.”

After suiting up with the MLS’ New York Red Bulls from 2015 to 2020, Lawrence said coming back to the area was not a hard decision for him due to the loyal and electric fan base, plus the WSC’s plan for success.

“It is an honor to be coming back to the New York area, and to be a part of history with Westchester SC,” Lawrence said. “While I had numerous opportunities for the next stage of my career, the ability to play in front of a vibrant fan base that knows and has followed me, along with what this club is building for the future, made this the best and easiest choice.”

Lawrence is a Jamaican international left wing back whose energetic style of play and aggressive defending along the left side of the pitch has given him the nickname, “Taxi.” He began his professional career at Harbor View FC in the Jamaica Premier League before earning a debut with the Jamaica senior men’s national team in November 2013. After a series of consecutive starts and key standout performances for the senior Reggae Boyz, Kemar went on to sign with the New York Red Bulls, where he immediately took over the starting left back role.

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— Jerry Del Priore