The Carolina RailHawks announced their first new player signing of the offseason on Friday as Jason Garey joins the team after six seasons in Major League Soccer.

Garey was the third overall pick in the 2006 MLS SuperDraft after shattering career records at the University of Maryland. He has played the last two seasons with the Houston Dynamo after four seasons with the Columbus Crew.

The forward fills an immediate need for the RailHawks, who have not re-signed any of last year's strikers. Last year's top goal-scorer Etienne Barbara is negotiating with the Vancouver Whitecaps of the MLS, while reserve Allan Russell has already signed to play in USL Pro next year.

Garey has 15 career goals and six assists in MLS. He was a member of the 2008 MLS Cup champion Columbus team.

Off the pitch, the Crew recognized Garey with their Humanitarian of the Year award in 2010 for his efforts in his native Louisiana.

"Jason is a prolific striker with a great instinct for scoring goals and a proven winner at all levels," said RailHawks coach Colin Clarke in a statement. "We will look for Jason to continue these traits and be an important part of helping us capture the 2012 NASL Championship."