CHICAGO (November 10, 2022) – On the heels of the National Independent Soccer season championship won by Michigan Stars FC, the league released its annual awards. Chattanooga FC dominates the list with Cal United Strikers FC keeper Jean Antione breaking up a sweep.

The Golden Boot (given to the highest goal scorer) and Golden Glove (given to the most outstanding keeper) are statistically based. The Golden Ball (the league’s Most Valuable player) and Coach of the Year are voted on by league coaches in collaboration with league partner QuestionPro.

The 2022 winners are:

• Golden Boot: Markus Naglestad, Chattanooga FC
• Golden Glove: Jean Antoine, Cal United Strikers FC
• Golden Ball (MVP): Markus Naglestad, Chattanooga FC
• Coach of the Year: Rod Underwood, Chattanooga FC

"This was an exciting season that produced many electric performances," says Commissioner John Prutch. "It's the players and coaches at the heart of the league and its growth. Coach Underwood, Markus and Jean are well deserving of these accolades."

CFC forward Naglestad led the league with 19 goals over 23 matches to earn the Golden Boot. However, he also added five assists to his tally sheet and was a constant presence on the pitch which earned him the vote for Golden Ball as the league’s most valuable player. Golden Boot runner up is Alioune Diakhate of season runner-up ALBION San Diego. He scored 12 in 20 matches and distributed four assists.

On the defensive side, Cal United keeper Antoine proved impervious posting 12 clean sheets in 16 matches. Throughout the regular 2022 season, Antoine allowed only five goals. He edges out Tatenda Mkuruva, of champion Michigan Stars FC, who posted 11 regular season shutouts.

Underwood led CFC to a season record of 14-7-3 in his first year at the club. Under his direction, the club led the league in goals scored (44), led the league in pass completion (85 percent) and average possession (59 percent), tied for fewest losses (3), and secured the no. 2 in the playoffs, earning a Quarterfinal bye and Semifinal Playoff berth.