But last week, Carolina re-signed one of its biggest surprises last season – and one of the few bright spots of a much-maligned defense.

Goalkeeper Akira Fitzgerald signed a “multiyear deal,” according to the organization.

Fitzgerald, a Wake Forest University graduate, was a member of the RailHawks’ summer U-23 program before signing his first professional contract with Carolina during the middle of the 2011 season.

Fitzgerald had two shutouts and 20 saves in five games. The team was 4-0-1 in those starts.

“Akira is another important piece to building a championship-caliber roster,” RailHawks president Curt Johnson said in a statement.

Fitzgerald, who backed up Ray Burse for much of the year, was the North American Soccer League Defender of the Week after a shutout against Atlanta.

“It’s great to be able to continue my development with the RailHawks and to continue working with coach (Colin) Clarke and the staff,” Fitzgerald said in a statement.