The crew for the 2026 USL League One Final on Saturday, November 14, has been announced. The showpiece game between Charlotte Independence and Athletic Club Boise will kick off at 7:30PM ET at Sportsplex at Matthews.
Charlotte Independence vs Athletic Club Boise
Ref: Matt Thompson
AR1: Seun Yinka-Kehinde
AR2: Bennett Savage
4th: Edson Carvajal
RAR: Zach McWhorter
Meet the crew:
Matt Thompson
The USL Referee of the Year in 2021 will officiate his first showpiece final having twice been fourth official for USL finals – the 2022 USL Championship and 2025 USL Jägermeister Cup. Made his MLS debut last weekend, taking charge of D.C. United and New York City FC. He has worked more than 30 games this year as a referee or fourth official, with most assignments being in the USL Championship and NWSL.
Seun Yinka-Kehinde
Also takes to the field for his first showpiece final after serving as the reserve assistant referee at the USL Championship final last season. He has been active across NWSL, USL Championship, USL League One, MLS NEXT Pro and Prinx Tires USL Cup for more than 30 games this year, plus has worked as an AVAR in MLS and NWSL.
Bennett Savage
Was the reserve assistant referee for the 2023 USL League One final. Another to have worked their first MLS game this year, debuting in Matchday 11. Has officiated 17 of his 23 games this year in USL Championship and NWSL.
Edson Carvajal
Has refereed 18 times in USL Championship and USL League One this season, as well as NWSL and MLS NEXT Pro. Has a further 10 games as a fourth official, seven of which were in MLS. This will be his first showpiece final.
Zach McWhorter
Has seen action in every competition PRO services this season, working 28 games across MLS, NWSL, Gainbridge Super League, USL Championship, USL League One, Prinx Tires USL Cup, and MLS NEXT Pro. Has previous experience of this final having been an assistant referee in 2024.
PRO wishes all the officials a successful and enjoyable final. This important assignment recognizes their excellent work throughout the season.