North Charlotte Today

The 2024 regular season for Charlotte FC has been marked by a significant cultural shift within the organization, largely attributed to the arrival of Dean Smith. As the Director of Content for Charlotte FC shared, "Dean Smith has brought life to this team in so many ways." His influence extends beyond tactics and strategies, impacting the overall atmosphere at Atrium Health Performance Park.

From the onset, Smith introduced key principles: 'Attitude, Application, Teamwork.' These concepts were made visible to fans and set clear expectations for both supporters and players. The club's ambition has always been evident, but according to insiders, Smith's presence feels like "the last piece of the puzzle" needed to fully realize their vision.

An anecdote from his first day highlights his impact. Despite efforts to create a professional environment by removing holiday decorations before his arrival, Smith's warm demeanor led him to ask about their absence. This moment underscored his commitment not only to winning matches but also to fostering a positive culture.

Throughout the season, Smith's approach has resonated with both staff and fans. He is described as aligning perfectly with the club's voice and values. The Director of Content noted that he is "a dream to work with," pointing out his interactions with Caroline Love as evidence of his consistent character.

Charlotte FC's performance on the field mirrors these internal changes. While specifics on tactics and achievements could be discussed at length, it is clear that the cultural foundation laid by Dean Smith is seen as pivotal in their success. As they look forward, there is speculation about potential MLS Cup aspirations with sentiments like "Who would doubt us?"

As for office traditions, it seems some changes are here to stay. The inflatables will remain part of the decor moving forward—a small testament to a larger transformation under Dean Smith's leadership.