Joe Tait

Philadelphia Union announced on September 13, 2011, the signing of English defender Tait from USL Professional Division club Dayton Dutch Lions.

The 21-year-old spent three weeks on trial with the team before signing. While on trial with the Union, Tait appeared in two MLS Reserve League matches, a 1-0 loss to the Columbus Crew and a 2-0 victory over the New England Revolution in which Tait registered an assist. The Englishman also scored in a 5-3 win over the Harrisburg City Islanders in an exhibition match.

Tait turned pro in 2006 with English League One side Hartlepool United and later debuted for the first team in a 1-1 draw against Falkirk in 2007. Prior to his debut, the Middlesbrough native captained the youth team to the League Cup final in 2007. The defender then moved to lead the reserves to the Division One East title of the Central League, currently known as theTotesport.com League.

Tait moved to the United States in 2010 when he signed with the Baton Rouge Capitals of the USL Premier Development League.  During that season, the defender was named 2010 PDL Defender of the Year while leading his side to a third place finish.