Derek Gebhard


Derek Gebhard is an American professional soccer player who plays as a forward for Forward Madison FC in USL League One. He is the club's all-time leading goalscorer and was re-signed for the 2026 season.

Early life and education

Gebhard was born in Blue Hill, Maine and lived in Spain as a child before moving to Severna Park, Maryland, later relocating to Florida as a teenager.
He attended George Steinbrenner High School in Lutz, Florida, and was selected for the U.S. Soccer Region III Olympic Development Program.

College career

Gebhard played college soccer for Florida Gulf Coast University in 2014, making 16 appearances and recording one assist.

Club career

Jacksonville United and Jacksonville Armada

Gebhard played for Jacksonville United FC in the National Premier Soccer League in 2015 before signing with Jacksonville Armada FC on July 30, 2015.
He later signed a contract extension with the Armada in October 2016.

El Paso Locomotive and loan to Charlotte Independence

In August 2018, Gebhard was announced as one of El Paso Locomotive FC's early signings, with the club noting he would be loaned to Charlotte Independence for the remainder of the 2018 season.
In 2019, he scored in El Paso's home opener against OKC Energy FC, which was described as the first goal in the club's history.

OKC Energy

In August 2019, Gebhard was traded to OKC Energy FC in exchange for Alexy Bosetti.

Charlotte Independence

Gebhard returned to Charlotte Independence on a permanent deal for the 2020 season.

Forward Madison

On February 11, 2021, Forward Madison FC announced it had signed Gebhard, describing him as a winger who could play across the forward line.
In 2025, he was credited with setting a club regular-season record with 11 goals and earning an All-League Second Team selection before re-signing for 2026.

Honours

;Individual