By Shawn Nowlin
Score one for the City of Roanoke. The sport of soccer has grown tremendously since the turn of the century. Drive past River’s Edge Park on most days when the weather is nice, and there’s a good chance that you will see people playing in the field.
It’s one thing to be a fan of semi-pro soccer. It’s another thing for such an organization to exist in your own backyard.
On Feb. 8 and 15 from 2 to 4 p.m., Northside High School will be hosting tryouts for Roanoke FC, a new semi-professional men’s soccer club under the United Premiere Soccer League (UPSL) umbrella.
When the team officially launches in the spring, Roanoke FC will participate in the fourth-tier U.S. soccer division that competes on a national level. The organization’s core values – passion, dedication, adaptability, inclusivity, family and service-oriented – are taken seriously by all involved.
Per its website, “The purpose of Roanoke Soccer League is to provide an enjoyable experience for each participant while developing character, skills, sportsmanship and to promote goodwill among all teams and individuals. Although sports are competitive by nature, RSL’s intends to place less emphasis on winning, while promoting the building of lifetime physical activity and health for each participant.”
For years, local enthusiasts have felt that there’s been a lack of real local opportunities for semi-pro-level soccer players. In less than two months, that should no longer be the case.
“Roanoke’s brightest soccer players will have the opportunity to compete against the best throughout the Roanoke Valley. Avid soccer fans like myself already have their calendars marked for the first match,” she said.
Founded 14 years ago, the UPSL is the most competitive and largest pro-development league in America. Formed in California by Leonel Lopez, the organization has grown from just ten teams to approximately 400 nationwide today.
The process of creating Roanoke FC was long, but organizers believe that it will ultimately be worth it. Moving up the ranks will give the program an opportunity for future growth.
“The first time that Lamar Williams attended a semi-pro soccer game, he says he fell in love with the sport. “It’s still surreal to think that we are actually going to get our own team. I am ecstatic to see the guys play. I will be paying close attention once the roster is finalized,” he said.
For additional information, visit http://www.roanokesoccer.org.
Interested individuals are encouraged to email any questions to roanokefootballclub@gmail.com.
