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United Soccer League, City of Springfield to Explore Bringing Professional Soccer to Southwestern Missouri

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SPRINGFIELD, Mo. & TAMPA, Fla. – The United Soccer League (USL) and the City of Springfield, Missouri are entering an exciting new chapter in professional soccer. Following Monday night’s City Council approval of a Letter of Intent (LOI), the City and USL will exclusively negotiate the potential to bring professional men’s and women’s soccer teams to Springfield, elevating the region’s sports and entertainment landscape.

During the negotiation period, the City will evaluate the viability of supporting professional soccer teams and explore opportunities to enhance entertainment options in the City’s burgeoning sports district downtown. Council will consider sharing the cost of feasibility research with USL to consider various factors, including potential funding and the addition of a soccer stadium east of Hammons Field.

“We are incredibly excited about the potential opportunity to bring both USL men’s and women’s teams to Springfield,” said Justin Papadakis, USL Deputy Chief Executive Officer & Chief Real Estate Officer. “The City has a rich soccer culture and a passionate community of sports fans that aligns with the USL’s vision of growing the sport at all levels. We are committed to working closely with the City of Springfield to explore how we can contribute to the community’s vibrant future through professional soccer.”

Director of Economic Vitality and Workforce Development Amanda Ohlensehlen said the letter of intent includes discussions and potential collaboration for a real estate development project that would result in a multi-purpose sports and entertainment district in Springfield.

“We believe this partnership could elevate Springfield’s sports landscape, provide new entertainment options and drive significant economic and community benefits,” Ohlensehlen said.

Springfield has built a strong soccer culture over the past decade, with notable achievements at all levels. Missouri State University’s men’s soccer team has emerged as an NCAA Division I powerhouse, achieving six consecutive tournament appearances and consistent conference titles. Local organizations have also made significant contributions, with teams advancing players to collegiate, professional and national levels.

The city has made significant investments in its soccer infrastructure to enhance field quality, increase visitor capacity, and attract larger tournaments, boosting local sports tourism and community engagement. Key projects include a $25 million renovation at Cooper Park, introducing artificial turf, upgraded amenities, and a new stadium environment by 2025, as well as the 2022 opening of Betty and Bobby Allison Sports Town, which supports local soccer development and positions Springfield as a regional soccer hub.

United Soccer League welcomes USL Dallas to the USL Championship

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GARLAND, Texas – The United Soccer League and the City of Garland today announced that USL Dallas, North Texas’s newest professional soccer team, will join the USL Championship for the 2027 season. The latest expansion team is set to bring high-level competition, community engagement, and exciting entertainment to Garland and the region.  

“We are thrilled to bring men’s professional soccer to the City of Garland and welcome USL Dallas to the USL Championship,” said Justin Papadakis, USL Deputy Chief Executive Officer & Chief Real Estate Officer. “Dallas has an incredibly passionate soccer culture, and adding a men’s professional club is a natural extension of the USL’s vision to grow the sport at all levels. We’re confident that the partnership with USL Dallas and the City of Garland will provide significant economic benefits and contribute to a stronger, more vibrant North Texas community.” 

USL Dallas is led by co-founders Matt Valentine and Sam Morton, who met on a local soccer field as children. Matt Valentine – a Dallas-based entrepreneur with over 25 years in corporate finance, capital markets, and investment strategy – will be leading the club’s strategic direction across business and sporting operations. Co-founder and long-time radio executive, Sam Morton, will serve as the Chief Commercial Officer to lead the development of the club’s business operations, including marketing, communications, sponsorship, merchandising, and ticketing. 

“This is a dream come true for us,” said Valentine, Chairman and Co-Founder of USL Dallas. “We’re committed to using this team as a platform to give back to the community, inspire young athletes, and foster a new level of excitement and unity across North Texas.” 

“Soccer is the most exciting and most-watched sport in the world,” said Morton. “My goal is to establish a lasting legacy for soccer in North Texas and I want USL Dallas to be the top choice for soccer fans in the region.”   

They are joined by fellow founders and friends Luther Ott and Dan McAlone. Together, they aim to create not only a competitive sports franchise, but a community-driven team dedicated to empowering young athletes, fostering youth development, and bringing the North Texas community together through the power of soccer. 

Home to around 250,000 residents, Garland is a vibrant and diverse community where soccer is more than a game — it’s a reflection of the city’s culture. Known for its successful manufacturing legacy, Garland is also a thriving center for business innovation, home to a dynamic mix of Fortune 500 companies, startups and small businesses. As Garland continues its exciting transformation, the city aims to become a premier entertainment and experience hub for eastern DFW, making it an ideal location for USL Dallas.  

USL Dallas has partnered with the City of Garland to establish a team that will bring new economic growth and entertainment to the city and the surrounding North Texas area. This partnership reflects a shared vision of creating a lasting impact through sport, community events and local engagement. 

“In Garland, we want to provide the best quality of life for our residents and visitors — a destination for all to live, work and play,” said Mayor Scott LeMay. “We feel confident this opportunity will not only bring unforgettable experiences but also drive future economic growth and create connections across the community and metroplex.” 

More development plans will be shared in the coming months as USL Dallas and the City of Garland engage with local fans, partners and businesses in their mission to build a community-centric club.  

United Soccer League, Boise Pro Soccer Set to Bring Professional Soccer to Treasure Valley

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BOISE, Idaho & TAMPA, Fla. – The United Soccer League (USL), in partnership with Boise Pro Soccer, announced today their intent to bring professional men’s and women’s soccer to Idaho’s Treasure Valley, marking a historic milestone for the region.

On Oct. 30, Boise Pro Soccer secured the winning bid in a public auction for a 27-acre site at Expo Idaho. Pending execution of the bid and lease with Ada County over the next 90 days, Boise Pro Soccer plans to transform the Expo Idaho Phase 2 site into a dynamic sports and entertainment hub, hosting various community and entertainment events. The new soccer-focused, mixed-use stadium will become home to a men’s team in USL League One and a women’s team in the USL Super League.

“We are thrilled to welcome Idaho’s Treasure Valley to professional soccer,” said Justin Papadakis, USL Deputy CEO & Chief Real Estate Officer. “With a deeply committed and experienced ownership group, a new state-of-the-art facility at the Sports Park at Expo Idaho, and a history of excellence in youth soccer, Boise is well-positioned to establish flagship teams during this transformative moment in American soccer. This new club will not only serve as a source of pride for Boise and Ada County but also elevate the community’s thriving sports culture and support the region’s rapid growth.”

Boise Pro Soccer is led by an accomplished ownership group, combining local roots with extensive experience in professional and collegiate sports, real estate development, and philanthropy:

  • Brad Stith, a Boise native and former NBA executive, has successfully launched multiple USL expansion teams across the U.S. He also serves on the boards of the Ada County Boys and Girls Club, University of Idaho’s CBE Business Advisory and University of Oregon’s Warsaw Sports Business Center.
  • Steve Patterson brings more than 35 years of leadership in the NFL, NBA, NHL, and college athletics. He has built championship teams and overseen the development of stadiums and arenas across the country.
  • David Wali, a long-time Boise resident, is a prominent real estate developer and entrepreneur.
  • Bill Taylor, a Treasure Valley neuroradiologist, currently serves as Vice Chair for U.S. Youth Soccer and recently completed a 3-year term as Vice President of the U.S. Soccer Federation.

“Given soccer’s incredible growth trajectory in the United States, it’s time that Boise — one of America’s fastest growing, most passionate and beautiful sports cities — joins the movement with its own professional teams,” said Stith, CEO of Boise Pro Soccer. “With games broadcast on the ESPN, CBS Sports and NBC Peacock family of networks, our club will add to Boise’s national spotlight, displaying the hard work, resilience, diversity, innovation, pride and grit that our tremendous community is known for. Soccer unites people and we’ll write this new chapter for Idaho professional sports together.”

In the coming months, Boise Pro Soccer will gather community input to shape the club’s identity, including team names, brand colors, and matchday experience. Fans are encouraged to get involved by visiting boiseprosoccer.com and signing up for updates, and by following on social media on Instagram, Facebook and X (Twitter).

United Soccer League awards franchise to Corpus Christi, bringing first professional soccer team to Texas Coastal Bend

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CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas & TAMPA, Fla. – The United Soccer League (USL) today announced that Corpus Christi Professional Soccer has been awarded the rights to a USL League One franchise. Led by Dr. Kingsley Okonkwo, Corpus Christi Professional Soccer will become the city’s only independent professional sports organization and the first professional soccer team in the Texas Coastal Bend region.

Corpus Christi Professional Soccer’s vision is to build a club in partnership with the community that inspires, unites and creates lasting positive impact in the Coastal Bend, making the region an even better place to live, work and play. 

The team will call the Corpus Christi Sports Complex home, a $28.3 million development currently under construction, which includes a 5,000-seat modular multi-sport stadium. 

“Soccer is experiencing tremendous growth in the United States, and with FIFA World Cup 26 on the horizon, this is the perfect moment to bring professional soccer to our city,” said Dr. Okonkwo, Owner and President of Corpus Christi Professional Soccer. “With the support of city officials, advisors and passionate fans, we are excited to introduce the highest level of soccer that Corpus Christi and the Coastal Bend has ever seen. This club will embody the pride, resilience, innovation and hard work that define our community. I believe we can unite people through ‘the beautiful game’ and use it as a platform for positive social change.”

Dr. Okonkwo completed his pediatric residency graduate training at the University of Kansas School of Medicine in Kansas City. After moving to Texas in 2016, he has focused on general pediatrics, pediatric cardiovascular diseases and care of children with special health care needs. He is the Founder and President of USL League Two team Corpus Christi FC and Next Sports Company, LLC, the developers of the Corpus Christi Sports Complex. 

“With the awarding of rights of a professional soccer franchise, we are opening the door to exciting opportunities for our city,” said Paulette M. Guajardo, Mayor of Corpus Christi. “We are proud to be part of the growing soccer movement and look forward to what this will mean for the future of Corpus Christi.”

An investment group led by Next Sports Company and Dr. Okonkwo is developing the 46-acre Corpus Christi Sports Complex, which began construction in December 2023 and is expected to be completed in 2025. The project received a grant under a five-year incentive agreement with the City of Corpus Christi. In addition to the stadium, the complex will include eight multi-use fields, a go-kart racing track and office space. 

“We’ve had the privilege of working with Dr. Okonkwo for several years, and his commitment to building community through soccer has been invaluable to the USL,” said Justin Papadakis, the USL’s Deputy CEO and Chief Real Estate Officer. “Dr. Okonkwo’s vision and dedication have already made a significant impact with Corpus Christi FC, and we’re thrilled to continue this journey with him as he brings Corpus Christi Professional Soccer to the Coastal Bend. His leadership and passion are perfectly aligned with our mission, and we look forward to growing the game together in Corpus Christi.”

For more information, visit Corpus Christi Professional Soccer’s website and follow the club on social media on Instagram, Facebook and X (Twitter). 

USL Arkansas Unveils Ozark United FC as Official Brand, Bringing Unity and Community to Northwest Arkansas Soccer

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NORTHWEST ARKANSAS – USL Arkansas officially announced its team name and brand, unveiling Ozark United FC as the symbol that will represent Men’s professional soccer in Northwest Arkansas. Ozark United FC reflects the unity, diversity, and passion that define the region, emphasizing the collective spirit that will drive the team’s success on and off the field. The brand embodies the region’s natural beauty, deep-rooted community spirit, and a commitment to unite the communities of Northwest Arkansas, all of which were learned focuses for the club through extensive community involvement. 

USL Arkansas gathered tens of thousands of pieces of feedback that shaped the team’s identity and vision, utilizing a community-centric approach. This included nine focus group sessions with 36 Ozarkers from diverse backgrounds, online fan surveys, 16 community listening sessions, and thousands of one-on-one conversations. By actively engaging with the community, the club ensured that the brand truly belongs to the people of the region, reflecting their pride and deep connection to the game.

“We are thrilled to announce Ozark United FC as a brand that embodies the values and heart of this incredible community,” said Warren Smith, co-founder of USL Arkansas. “From the start, it has been about creating something that represents the people and brings everyone together under one banner.”

Co-founder Chris Martinovic added, “The input from our fans has been essential, and Ozark United FC captures that essence of togetherness that makes Northwest Arkansas so special. We couldn’t be more excited to unveil this brand and begin this journey with our supporters.”

Inspired by the unique beautiful landscape of Northwest Arkansas and the Ozarks, Ozark United FC embraces the rugged terrain and rich cultural history of the area, while celebrating the values of authenticity, commitment to excellence, passion, compassion, and belonging. The crest features a unique condensed “O” shape representing the high terrain of the Ozarks. The interwoven “O-Z” monogram is symbolic of the interconnectedness and individuality of the communities in our region, anchored by its four largest cities: Bentonville, Rogers, Springdale, and Fayetteville. The ever-ascending stripes represent the region’s limitless potential and its rising acclaim, as well as the mountains that define the Ozarks.

The Arkansas State motto, Regnat Populus (“The People Rule”), is a prominent feature in the design, reinforcing the club’s commitment to being a club by and for the fans. Inside the state motto is the number 25 within a diamond, highlighting Arkansas as the 25th state in the union and the only U.S. state where diamonds are naturally found. The club’s name is proudly displayed in a modern, clean typeface (Sofia Sans), representing both the forward-thinking nature of the team and its deep local roots. The varying shades of green in the crest nod to the beautiful greens of the Ozark forests and the landscape that defines the region.

In addition to the primary crest, the club features several secondary marks, including a legacy mark that honors Arkansas’s nickname as the “Natural State” and an origin mark celebrating Arkansas as the 25th state in the Union, highlighting the club’s official launch in 2025.

Ozark United FC continues to work towards its goal of kicking off its inaugural season in 2026, with more details on club progress and key milestones to be released in the coming months.

United Soccer League, City of Modesto to Explore Bringing Professional Soccer to Region

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TAMPA, Fla. – The United Soccer League (USL) is excited to announce the City of Modesto has been identified as a prime location in California’s Central Valley for professional soccer. Following Tuesday night’s City Council approval of a Letter of Intent (LOI), the City and USL will enter exclusive negotiations over the next year to explore the possibility of bringing both men’s and women’s professional soccer teams to Modesto and the surrounding region.

During the negotiation period, the City will evaluate the viability of supporting soccer teams and evaluate opportunities to enhance entertainment options for the community. This initial phase of discussion will address various factors, including funding and the location of a stadium with an entertainment district, which has yet to be determined.

“We are incredibly excited about the potential opportunity to bring both USL men’s and women’s teams to Modesto,” says Justin Papadakis, USL Deputy Chief Executive Officer & Chief Real Estate Officer. “The City has a rich soccer culture and a passionate community that aligns with the USL’s vision of growing the sport at all levels. We are committed to working closely with the City of Modesto to explore how we can contribute to the community’s vibrant future through professional soccer. We believe this partnership can elevate Modesto’s sports landscape, provide new entertainment options, and drive significant economic and community benefits.”

The USL was founded in 1986 and is the largest and fastest-growing professional and pre-professional soccer organization in the country. Since 2012, the league has significantly grown from 11 clubs to 44 professional clubs and more than 150 pre-professional clubs, spanning 42 states, in over 200 U.S. markets and featuring 20,000 players.

Modesto could be next in line to be part of one of the most widely accessible soccer leagues in the United States.

“As a longtime resident of Modesto, I am always cheering for our city,” says Mayor Sue Zwahlen. “Whether you’re a soccer fanatic, an athlete, a sports spectator, or someone looking for a local event to take your family to, we’re excited for this opportunity to score a goal with the USL and give residents something to cheer for too.”

The City of Modesto and the USL will be hosting a press conference on September 12, 2024, to share this news with the community.

AV ALTA FC stadium renovations unanimously approved by city council

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LANCASTER, Calif. – The Lancaster City Council on Tuesday unanimously approved and appropriated an expenditure of over $17 million and awarded the bid for the Lancaster Municipal Stadium renovation. USL League One expansion side AV ALTA FC will host a stadium groundbreaking event on Saturday, Aug. 17 to officially commemorate the ongoing renovation process.

Lancaster Municipal Stadium, commonly referred to as ‘The Hangar,’ opened in 1996 as the home of Minor League Baseball’s Lancaster JetHawks and served as the team’s home until the Jethawks folded in 2020.

The City of Lancaster will convert the stadium from a 4,600-seat baseball stadium into a 5,300-seat soccer-specific stadium with an expected completion of late February, ahead of AV ALTA FC’s inaugural 2025 season in League One. Over the past year, the City of Lancaster and AV ALTA FC have collaborated with architect NBBJ Design to create the final plans in a uniquely successful public-private partnership.

Various improvements coming to Lancaster Municipal Stadium include the demolition of batting cages, dugouts and portions of existing stadium seating; installation of new modular standing bleachers, new supporters’ section standing terraces and canopy for the north side of the soccer field, and a new artificial turf playing surface. When completed, the stadium will be only the fourth professional soccer-specific stadium in Southern California.

Fans interested in attending the club’s stadium groundbreaking – held on Saturday, Aug. 17 from 6-9 p.m. PT – can RSVP here. To stay updated with the club’s progress, announcements and season ticket information, learn more at the club’s website and follow AV ALTA FC on Instagram, X (Twitter), Facebook and YouTube.

Lexington Sporting Club to join USL Championship for 2025 season

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LEXINGTON, Ky. & TAMPA, Fla. – The United Soccer League announced today that Lexington Sporting Club has exercised its option to join the USL Championship for the 2025 season.

The USL Championship is the top level of the United Soccer League’s men’s soccer pathway and is sanctioned as the only Division II league by the U.S. Soccer Federation. Lexington SC is currently playing its second season in USL League One, a Division III-sanctioned league, at the 5,000-person capacity Toyota Stadium owned and operated by Georgetown College.

The completion of Lexington SC’s new 7,500-seat soccer-specific stadium in Lexington has enabled the club to join the USL Championship. The state-of-the-art facility also includes seven training and youth club fields with an $80-million investment from club ownership into the community.

“Elevating to the USL Championship is the culmination of our efforts to build a premier soccer club in Lexington,” said Lexington SC Owner Bill Shively. “This move is a natural next step in our journey, reflecting our commitment to developing talent and growing the sport at the highest level.”

The USL Championship is expected to have 26 teams competing in the 2025 season with the addition of Lexington SC and expansion side Brooklyn FC. The geographical proximity with Louisville City FC – only 80 miles away – will bring a new rivalry to the league with other regional rivals including Indy Eleven and Memphis 901 FC.

“Lexington SC has all the building blocks in place with the youth club, Academy pathway, and soccer-specific stadium and training complex to compete at the highest level,” said USL Championship President Jeremy Alumbaugh. “The investment from club ownership into the stadium and facilities represents a long-term commitment to the Lexington community. We are excited to welcome Lexington SC to the league next season and look forward to new regional rivalries to engage fans and supporters.”

“Joining the USL Championship represents a new era for Lexington Sporting Club,” said Lexington SC co-owner Stephen Dawahare. “This move isn’t just a promotion; it’s a clear signal of our commitment to elevating soccer in this region and providing a platform for our players to shine.”

The inaugural game at Lexington SC’s new stadium will be the club’s USL Super League home opener on Sept. 8 against Tampa Bay Sun FC, while the men will play the final three home matches of the USL League One season at the new venue starting on Sept. 14 against One Knoxville SC.

New York Jets quarterback Tyrod Taylor joins Westchester SC ownership group

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MOUNT VERNON, N.Y. – Westchester SC on Wednesday announced that New York Jets quarterback Tyrod Taylor has joined its ownership group. The announcement comes on the heels of Tuesday’s announcement that the club has signed a lease agreement with the City of Mount Vernon in a ceremony at The Stadium at Memorial Field. The club is preparing to host a community celebratory kickoff event at Memorial Field on Saturday, June 15 at 4 p.m. ET.

Taylor, renowned for his leadership on and off the field, brings a wealth of experience and a winning mentality to Westchester SC. His journey through the NFL has been marked by notable achievements, including a Super Bowl title with the Baltimore Ravens in 2012 and a Pro Bowl selection in 2015. Taylor’s involvement reflects his interest in soccer and his entrepreneurial mindset.

Known for his dual-threat capabilities, leadership, and warrior mentality, Taylor signed a two-year contract with the New York Jets in March, ensuring he will continue to deepen his connection to the New York metro area after spending two years with the New York Giants in 2022 and 2023. Taylor will also bring his fashion-forward vision to WSC’s brand identity, which recently released its brand and iconic “Infinity W” logo through nontraditional channels. Taylor is uniquely positioned between sports and culture as a fashion entrepreneur, having launched the luxury brand Diallo with his business partner Dex Robinson in 2023.

“I am excited to join Westchester SC’s ownership group from its founding and help bring the lessons I’ve learned as an NFL quarterback to help build a long-lasting winning culture for the soccer fans of Westchester,” Taylor said.

“We are thrilled that a consummate professional and leader like Tyrod was interested in joining our ownership group. We believe the insights he has learned from his years of NFL stardom will help us build a championship team and professional developmental pipeline for our region’s youth players for years to come,” said Mitch Baruchowitz, majority owner of WSC. 

On Tuesday, WSC and The City of Mount Vernon announced a pioneering alliance. Commencing during the 2025 season, the Stadium at Memorial Field will stand as the esteemed home ground for WSC. This momentous development heralds a thrilling era for sports enthusiasts and community involvement across the region.

The alliance between the City of Mount Vernon and Westchester SC will provide local fans with exciting, high-quality sports entertainment, create job opportunities and attract visitors to the area. Increased foot traffic will benefit local businesses, and residents will enjoy the vibrant atmosphere that professional soccer brings to the community.

To celebrate these exciting developments, WSC will host a special kickoff event on Saturday, June 15th, at Memorial Field. This event promises to be a memorable day for all attendees, featuring merchandise giveaways, interactive games and more. Fans will have the chance to engage with the team, enjoy family-friendly activities, and get their first look at the official team merchandise. Season ticket deposits for the inaugural 2025 season will also go on sale, marking a significant milestone for the club and its supporters.

For more information, visit Westchester SC’s website and follow the club on social media on X (Twitter) and Instagram.