TUCSON, Ariz. (Feb. 4, 2021) — FC Tucson announced today that the club has signed former New York Red Bulls goalkeeper Wallis Lapsley. Lapsley, 23, joins the Men in Black after being a member of the New York Red Bulls organization since 2020 and becomes the club’s first new addition in goal in preparation for the 2021 USL League One Season.
“We are delighted to welcome Wallis to the club. With USL Championship experience, coming in from Red Bulls II, we feel he can fill the void left with the departure of Carlos (Merancio) to Hartford,” said Head Coach John Galas. “He has all the tools to be a great goalkeeper in this league. He is a bright young man with a strong desire to improve every day – he fits our culture, our style of play, and we can’t wait to welcome him to the club and this wonderful city.”
The 6-foot-4-inch goalkeeper began his professional career after being selected as the No. 36 pick in the 2020 Major League Soccer SuperDraft by the New York Red Bulls. Lapsley spent one season in the USL Championship with New York Red Bulls II (NYRB II), where he made 11 appearances, and led the team in saves (25) and in save percentage (56.8). Lapsley participated in both preseason camps with the first team in Bradenton, Florida and in Tucson, Arizona for FC Tucson’s 2020 Visit Tucson Sun Cup.
“I’m very excited and grateful to join this club. I’m hoping my experience and positivity can help the team be successful. See you soon, Tucson,” said Wallis Lapsley.
Before joining NYRB II, Lapsley played at the NCAA Division 1 level with UC Davis. The Seattle native was named Big West Goalkeeper of the Year in 2019 and is the UC Davis career-record holder for wins (35), save percentage (.784), and clean sheets (21). Lapsley also led UC Davis to the Big West Championship Match in three of his four seasons with the Aggies and was named to the 2019 All-Big West Team during his senior year.
Wallis Lapsley
Country: USA
Born: April 14, 1997 (23)
Position: Goalkeeper
Height: 6 ft 4
Weight: 200 lbs
Previous Club: New York Red Bulls II
