The Columbus Crew selected Charlotte 49ers forward Kyle Parker with the 31st pick in the 2016 MLS SuperDraft Thursday evening. Parker’s advancement into the MLS follows standout 49ers, Giussi Gentile who was selected by the Chicago Fire in the 2014 MLS Waiver Draft and Donnie Smith who was selected 21st overall in the 2013 MLS SuperDraft.
The Marvin, N.C. native played an integral role for the 49ers through his four-year career. Parker established himself as potent attacker during his time with Charlotte, scoring 34 goals in his career which ties him for fourth all-time within the program.
During his sophomore year, Parker earned his first conference Golden Boot, scoring a team-leading 11 goals.