Huntsville City FC sign defender Zach Barrett forward Damien Barker John

Huntsville City FC made two more additions to their roster on Thursday, signing defender Zach Barrett and adding forward Damien Barker John on loan from Real Monarchs.

“Zach embodies a culture setter,” said Matt Cairns, Huntsville City FC Director of Soccer Operations, in the club's press release. “Having just captained Vermont to the NCAA title we were all able to see his high-end leadership skills to go alongside his sound defensive fundamentals. Damien is a player our club has tracked for multiple years.  We believe he has major upside as a creative attacking player with an eye for goal.  Comfortable with both feet and positionally versatile, he will quickly become a fan favorite.”

Barrett, 23, played for five seasons at the University of Vermont, making 90 appearances with seven goals and seven assists. In his final season he set up the winning goal in the College Cup final, earning the 2024 NCAA Division I National Championship.

Barrett also played with USL League 2 outfits FC Motown STA and Vermont Green FC, making two appearances in the USL League 2 playoffs and two appearances in the US Open Cup.

Barker John, 20, scored three goals in 15 appearances with Real Monarchs last season, as well as a goal in nine appearances on loan with Phoenix Rising in the USL Championship. Collegiately, Barker John played for two years at the University of Louisville, scoring 10 goals and adding five assists in 39 matches.

Huntsville City FC Roster as of February 20, 2025   

Goalkeepers: Erik Lauta  
Defenders: Zach Barrett, Blake Bowen, Kevin Carmichael, Kessy Coulibaly, Jordan Knight, Tyshawn Rose  
Midfielders: Patrick Amarh, Bryce Boneau, Alan Carleton, Christian Koffi, Philip Mayaka, Ethan O’Brien, Moisés Véliz   
Forwards: Damien Barker John, Real Gill, Malik Henry-Scott, Gio Miglietti