HARRISON, N.J. (February 14, 2018) - New York Red Bulls II have signed midfielder Steven Echevarria and defender Wahab Ackwei to USL contracts, pending league and federation approval, the club announced today.

Echevarria joined the Red Bulls Academy in 2011 and signs with NYRB II after a four-year career at Wake Forest. There he appeared in 79 games, totaling seven goals and six assists.

“It’s such a great feeling to coach a player starting at the U-14 level and see him turn pro with the club,” NYRB II head coach John Wolyniec said. “Steven has strengths that really fit what we do and is a model of hard work and dedication that will translate onto the pitch.”

Echevarria also featured for the Red Bulls’ PDL side each of the past two summers.

“I’m extremely excited to be signing with the Red Bull organization and for the opportunity to win trophies with my hometown club,” said Echevarria. “When I came to this amazing academy at the age of 14, getting to the first team was and continues to be my dream. I can’t overstate the joy I’ve had in being able to put pen to paper and continue along this path with what I believe is the best organization and group of guys I could ask for.”

Ackwei, a native of Accra, Ghana, joins NYRB II on a free transfer from Inter Allies FC in the Ghanaian Premier League.

“I’m very happy to join the New York Red Bulls,” Ackwei said. “They are one of the biggest clubs in the USA and I’m filled with excitement.”

In 2017, Wahab featured in 23 games for Inter Allies FC, scoring three goals.

"Wahab brings a unique skillset that we feel can adapt to how we play,” NYRB II head coach John Wolyniec said. “We look forward to helping him integrate within the team as he continues his development here with us."

MLS players Dominic Oduro and Gershon Koffle came through the system at Inter Allies FC before signing for their respective clubs within MLS.

In another roster move, New York Red Bulls II and Noah Powder have mutually agreed to part ways.