Kemar Lawrence Joins Westchester Soccer Club as First-Ever Signing
Jamaican international and Major League Soccer veteran Kemar “Taxi” Lawrence has become the first player to sign with Westchester Soccer Club (WSC), marking a historic milestone as the team prepares for its inaugural professional season.
The 31-year-old left wing back brings a wealth of experience, with over 185 MLS appearances, 77 caps for Jamaica, and accolades including the MLS Best XI (2018) and Concacaf Gold Cup Best XI (2017).
Lawrence’s signing, pending league and federation approval, underscores WSC’s ambition to build a competitive and community-focused franchise. The team’s debut season kicks off in April at Memorial Field in Mount Vernon, New York.
Expressing his excitement, Lawrence described the move as both a professional and personal milestone.
“It is an honour to be coming back to the New York area and to be a part of history with Westchester SC,” he said. “While I had numerous opportunities for the next stage of my career, the ability to play in front of a vibrant fan base that knows and has followed me, along with what this club is building for the future, made this the best and easiest choice.”
Lawrence is no stranger to New York, having spent five successful seasons with the New York Red Bulls, where he established himself as one of MLS’s premier left backs. His return offers fans an opportunity to reconnect with a familiar and accomplished player.
WSC majority owner Mitch Baruchowitz highlighted Lawrence’s importance to the club. “Kemar Lawrence has been a leader on and off the pitch everywhere he has played, and it is an honor to have him be the first player to join us,” Baruchowitz said.
“His presence sets a very strong tone both in the soccer community and in the business world as to the type of athlete we will be bringing here—someone who understands winning, professionalism, and what playing in the New York area means.”
Sporting Director Simon Baines echoed these sentiments, praising Lawrence’s technical skill and leadership. “From a technical and leadership standpoint, I could not think of anyone who epitomizes what we are building here more than Kemar.
His knowledge of the game and his willingness to lead by example are critical for our club as we add players around him. This signing sends a clear message about what we’re all about,” Baines said.
Lawrence began his professional career at Harbor View FC in Jamaica before earning his first senior cap for the Reggae Boyz in 2013. His standout performances for Jamaica led to his move to the New York Red Bulls in 2015, where he became a cornerstone of the team.
In 2020, Lawrence took his talents to Europe, signing with Belgian side RSC Anderlecht, where he played under former Manchester City captain Vincent Kompany.
After returning to North America during the pandemic, he continued his MLS career with Toronto FC and Minnesota United FC, cementing his reputation as one of the league’s most dependable defenders.
Internationally, Lawrence has been a mainstay for Jamaica, competing in Gold Cup tournaments, Copa América, and World Cup qualifiers, solidifying his status as one of the Caribbean’s finest footballers.
Remember to share this article on Facebook and other Social Media Platforms. To submit your own articles or to advertise with us please send us an EMAIL at: [email protected]