DETROIT, Michigan – Detroit City FC and South Oakland County Soccer have announced a multi-faceted youth affiliation that includes the SOCS premier and select program joining the DCFC youth affiliates as Detroit City FC Youth South Oakland. 

The affiliation allows Detroit City FC and South Oakland County Soccer to combine resources and serve a larger geographic area, providing additional accessible soccer development and training opportunities for all skill levels across Metro Detroit. 

“We believe that every youth player across Metro Detroit and beyond deserves a club that they will never grow out of,” said Detroit City FC COO Todd Kropp. “This partnership provides a very clear and defined path for even more kids in Metro Detroit to their hometown’s first team. Having these great Youth Affiliates as a part of Detroit City is such an integral part to not just growth on the pitch but who we are as a Club.”  

The partnership includes a structured player development pathway all the way to Detroit City FC’s first teams on both the men’s and women’s sides for South Oakland’s 950-plus players who compete across 120 premier/select and recreational teams. As DCFC Youth South Oakland, the club will be able to provide soccer programs tiered for grassroots, select/premier, high school and college play, semi-pro and professional levels. The program will have a top-down, high-level developmental approach that will include new curriculum and standards. South Oakland will transition to donning Le Rouge & Gold starting at the youth tryouts on June 12 and 13. 

“I am thrilled for all players, parents and community members in South Oakland County and its surrounding areas.," Marcel Schmid, SOCS Executive Director, said. "This partnership will allow us to provide a new high-level development pathway for all players and all playing levels. Program opportunities shared by all affiliates, internal program upgrades, and new full time development staff will highlight the start of a new era.”

"Our affiliation with DCFC will ensure a bright future for our club," said SOCS President Todd Sperl. "In 1990, our founding members started something special by offering affordable, competitive, community-based soccer to the families of South Oakland County. Over the years we’ve grown and maintained those core values. But the soccer landscape in Michigan is changing. By donning Le Rouge & Gold, we will remain true to our mission and be able to offer many more new opportunities to our kids!"

Regular operational and administrative duties will reside with DCFC Youth South Oakland, and DCFC will tap its professional approach and year-round commitment to the grassroots game to enhance the experience of club players.

Le Rouge recently announced the addition of men’s and women’s development sides that will compete in the Midwest Premier League and United Women’s Soccer League Two, respectively. Both rosters will feature top players from the DCFC Youth Affiliate system, along with top collegiate and amateur players.

DCFC Youth South Oakland will be the fifth youth affiliate joining City, Downriver, Genesee and West as part of the DCFC Youth Affiliate system. 

To learn more about DCFC Youth South Oakland, visit www.dcfcyouthsouthoakland.com. 

About Detroit City FC: 
Founded in 2012, Detroit City FC has established itself as one of the most talked about soccer teams in North America. The club’s motto, Passion for Our City, Passion for the Game, evokes the three ideas the grassroots organization was built upon: to satisfy the demand for soccer in Detroit, represent the city in a positive light, and build community through the beautiful game.

About South Oakland County Soccer:
South Oakland County Soccer has served the communities of southern Oakland County offering recreation and travel soccer programs for the past 30 years. SOCS sees this new affiliation with Detroit City FC as a way of maintaining their deep community roots while simultaneously embracing the future of youth soccer in Michigan. By partnering with Detroit’s preeminent soccer brand to form DCFC Youth South Oakland, this reimagined soccer club will better serve youth soccer players across the region.

DETROIT, Michigan – Detroit City FC and South Oakland County Soccer have announced a multi-faceted youth affiliation that includes the SOCS premier and select program joining the DCFC youth affiliates as Detroit City FC Youth South Oakland. 

The affiliation allows Detroit City FC and South Oakland County Soccer to combine resources and serve a larger geographic area, providing additional accessible soccer development and training opportunities for all skill levels across Metro Detroit. 

“We believe that every youth player across Metro Detroit and beyond deserves a club that they will never grow out of,” said Detroit City FC COO Todd Kropp. “This partnership provides a very clear and defined path for even more kids in Metro Detroit to their hometown’s first team. Having these great Youth Affiliates as a part of Detroit City is such an integral part to not just growth on the pitch but who we are as a Club.”  

The partnership includes a structured player development pathway all the way to Detroit City FC’s first teams on both the men’s and women’s sides for South Oakland’s 950-plus players who compete across 120 premier/select and recreational teams. As DCFC Youth South Oakland, the club will be able to provide soccer programs tiered for grassroots, select/premier, high school and college play, semi-pro and professional levels. The program will have a top-down, high-level developmental approach that will include new curriculum and standards. South Oakland will transition to donning Le Rouge & Gold starting at the youth tryouts on June 12 and 13. 

“I am thrilled for all players, parents and community members in South Oakland County and its surrounding areas.,” Marcel Schmid, SOCS Executive Director, said. “This partnership will allow us to provide a new high-level development pathway for all players and all playing levels. Program opportunities shared by all affiliates, internal program upgrades, and new full time development staff will highlight the start of a new era.”

“Our affiliation with DCFC will ensure a bright future for our club,” said SOCS President Todd Sperl. “In 1990, our founding members started something special by offering affordable, competitive, community-based soccer to the families of South Oakland County. Over the years we’ve grown and maintained those core values. But the soccer landscape in Michigan is changing. By donning Le Rouge & Gold, we will remain true to our mission and be able to offer many more new opportunities to our kids!”

Regular operational and administrative duties will reside with DCFC Youth South Oakland, and DCFC will tap its professional approach and year-round commitment to the grassroots game to enhance the experience of club players.

Le Rouge recently announced the addition of men’s and women’s development sides that will compete in the Midwest Premier League and United Women’s Soccer League Two, respectively. Both rosters will feature top players from the DCFC Youth Affiliate system, along with top collegiate and amateur players.

DCFC Youth South Oakland will be the fifth youth affiliate joining City, Downriver, Genesee and West as part of the DCFC Youth Affiliate system. 

To learn more about DCFC Youth South Oakland, visit www.dcfcyouthsouthoakland.com. 

About Detroit City FC: 
Founded in 2012, Detroit City FC has established itself as one of the most talked about soccer teams in North America. The club’s motto, Passion for Our City, Passion for the Game, evokes the three ideas the grassroots organization was built upon: to satisfy the demand for soccer in Detroit, represent the city in a positive light, and build community through the beautiful game.

About South Oakland County Soccer:
South Oakland County Soccer has served the communities of southern Oakland County offering recreation and travel soccer programs for the past 30 years. SOCS sees this new affiliation with Detroit City FC as a way of maintaining their deep community roots while simultaneously embracing the future of youth soccer in Michigan. By partnering with Detroit’s preeminent soccer brand to form DCFC Youth South Oakland, this reimagined soccer club will better serve youth soccer players across the region.

DETROIT, Michigan – Detroit City Football Club and the National Independent Soccer Association announced Wednesday the 2021 spring season format, culminating in a championship match at Keyworth Stadium in Hamtramck on July 3. 

“We are excited to play for a league championship at our home stadium,” said Detroit City FC’s CEO Sean Mann. “As the 2021 roster continues to take shape, we look forward to getting the spring kicked off with the hope of supporters being able to return safely to Keyworth.”

The regular season kicks off on May 1 with each club playing eight matches – four home and four away – throughout May and June. 

The table winner from the regular season will secure a spot in the postseason, which will feature a semifinal and final at Keyworth Stadium on June 30 and July 3, respectively. 

The spring opens for Le Rouge’s men’s side and NISA with a single-location tournament in Chattanooga, Tennessee, from April 13-25. The tournament will consist of three groups composed of three clubs each. The winner of the tournament will secure the second semifinal berth. 

As the fall champion, Detroit City FC has already claimed a place in July 3’s final at Keyworth. 

It is expected that a reduced capacity will be allowed at Chattanooga’s W. Max Finley Stadium for the season’s opening tournament. Attendance for the regular season will be determined by each club based on their state guidelines. 

Making their NISA debut this spring will be the Maryland Bobcats. Additionally, San Diego 1904 and Stumptown Athletic return to action after sitting out 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. 

The Detroit City FC men’s side reports to training on March 1. 

Broadcast, streaming, and ticketing information will be announced at a later date. 

About Detroit City FC 
Founded in 2012, Detroit City FC has established itself as one of the most talked about soccer teams in North America. The club’s motto, Passion for Our City, Passion for the Game, evokes the three ideas the grassroots organization was built upon: to satisfy the demand for soccer in Detroit, represent the city in a positive light, and build community through the beautiful game. 

About NISA
The National Independent Soccer Association was founded in 2017 with a mission to bring professional soccer to every city in the United States. A pro league member of U.S. Soccer, NISA focuses on a model based on meritocracy, independent clubs controlling their own league, clubs owning their intellectual property, all without the barrier of territorial rights. Sanctioned by the U.S. Soccer Federation, NISA also runs the mid-summer Independent Cup, open to independent professional and amateur clubs alike. For more information about NISA visit NISAOfficial.com or contact at info@nisasoccer.com. Follow NISA On Twitter @NISALeague and on Instagram @nisasoccer.

DETROIT, Michigan – Detroit City Football Club and the National Independent Soccer Association announced Wednesday the 2021 spring season format, culminating in a championship match at Keyworth Stadium in Hamtramck on July 3. 

“We are excited to play for a league championship at our home stadium,” said Detroit City FC’s CEO Sean Mann. “As the 2021 roster continues to take shape, we look forward to getting the spring kicked off with the hope of supporters being able to return safely to Keyworth.”

The regular season kicks off on May 1 with each club playing eight matches – four home and four away – throughout May and June. 

The table winner from the regular season will secure a spot in the postseason, which will feature a semifinal and final at Keyworth Stadium on June 30 and July 3, respectively. 

The spring opens for Le Rouge’s men’s side and NISA with a single-location tournament in Chattanooga, Tennessee, from April 13-25. The tournament will consist of three groups composed of three clubs each. The winner of the tournament will secure the second semifinal berth. 

As the fall champion, Detroit City FC has already claimed a place in July 3’s final at Keyworth. 

It is expected that a reduced capacity will be allowed at Chattanooga’s W. Max Finley Stadium for the season’s opening tournament. Attendance for the regular season will be determined by each club based on their state guidelines. 

Making their NISA debut this spring will be the Maryland Bobcats. Additionally, San Diego 1904 and Stumptown Athletic return to action after sitting out 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. 

The Detroit City FC men’s side reports to training on March 1. 

Broadcast, streaming, and ticketing information will be announced at a later date. 

About Detroit City FC 
Founded in 2012, Detroit City FC has established itself as one of the most talked about soccer teams in North America. The club’s motto, Passion for Our City, Passion for the Game, evokes the three ideas the grassroots organization was built upon: to satisfy the demand for soccer in Detroit, represent the city in a positive light, and build community through the beautiful game. 

About NISA
The National Independent Soccer Association was founded in 2017 with a mission to bring professional soccer to every city in the United States. A pro league member of U.S. Soccer, NISA focuses on a model based on meritocracy, independent clubs controlling their own league, clubs owning their intellectual property, all without the barrier of territorial rights. Sanctioned by the U.S. Soccer Federation, NISA also runs the mid-summer Independent Cup, open to independent professional and amateur clubs alike. For more information about NISA visit NISAOfficial.com or contact at info@nisasoccer.com. Follow NISA On Twitter @NISALeague and on Instagram @nisasoccer.

Detroit City Football Club came out of the small business community that has shaped Detroit this past decade.

Small businesses invest our community, provide countless jobs, and help define who we are.

The pandemic has been devastating for many small businesses with the situation poised to worsen this winter.

This off-season, we're teaming up with our partners at the Metro Detroit Chevy Dealers to use our platform to highlight many of the small businesses that make Detroit special and to help lift them up to weather the coming storm. 

Be on the look out for the newest featured business on our Twitter, Facebook and Instagram pages. Leave a comment or reply for your chance to win a gift certificate to that location! 

Want to see your favorite small businesses featured on our pages? Follow the link below to nominate a small business in the local Detroit area. 

NOMINATION FORM

 

Detroit City Football Club came out of the small business community that has shaped Detroit this past decade.

Small businesses invest our community, provide countless jobs, and help define who we are.

The pandemic has been devastating for many small businesses with the situation poised to worsen this winter.

This off-season, we’re teaming up with our partners at the Metro Detroit Chevy Dealers to use our platform to highlight many of the small businesses that make Detroit special and to help lift them up to weather the coming storm. 

Be on the look out for the newest featured business on our Twitter, Facebook and Instagram pages. Leave a comment or reply for your chance to win a gift certificate to that location! 

Want to see your favorite small businesses featured on our pages? Follow the link below to nominate a small business in the local Detroit area. 

NOMINATION FORM

 

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DETROIT, Michigan – George Easter and Patrick Griffin will join the technical staff of Detroit City Football Club’s women’s side. Additionally, Easter has been tabbed head coach of the inaugural reserve team set to compete in the United Women’s Soccer League Two. 

"George and Patrick bring years of experience at a variety of levels to the field,” said women’s first-team Head Coach Sam Piraine. “George has been coaching soccer for over 12 years and currently coaches both collegiately and high school.

“George took over Livonia City’s program last year and visited Hamtramck as part of the Keyworth Showcase. He’s been around the Club since its start in 2012, and we are excited to have him guide our reserve team.”  

Easter comes to Detroit City after spending last season as the head coach for Livonia City FC’s women’s first team. He was promoted to the post after serving as head coach for Livonia City’s reserve squad. 

“I’m just looking forward to working with this great club, Coach Sam, and all the great players and coaches that are involved with this women's soccer program,” said Easter. “I’ve been a fan of DCFC since the men's inaugural season, and have attended many matches as a supporter. 

I know this club holds a high standard and strives for excellence, and it’s just a blessing for me to be part of that. I can’t wait to get things started, and I look forward to helping DCFC build one of the top women’s soccer programs in the country.”

Easter will continue in his roles as assistant coach with the women’s soccer program at the University of Michigan – Dearborn and as head coach for the girls varsity team at Waterford Mott High School while on Le Rouge’s women’s technical staff.

Griffin has coached youth soccer in the state of Michigan for 18 years and played collegiately at Madonna University in Livonia. While working with the City women’s first team, the Plymouth native will continue in his current position as Technical Director for Michigan Tigers FC. 

"I'm really looking forward to getting on the field and working with the team and staff to put out a product that the city, supporters, and organization will be proud of," Griffin said.

Charlie Bell, Kyle Winningham and Jon Evans will carry over from the inaugural season’s staff. 

The reserve team’s roster will be composed of top players from Detroit City FC’s Youth Affiliates (City, Downriver, Genesee, West) as well as college players from around the region.

Prospective players interested in learning more about Detroit City FC’s women’s program are encouraged to contact women’s first-team head coach Sam Piraine at sam.piraine@https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/detcityfc. 

DETROIT, Michigan – George Easter and Patrick Griffin will join the technical staff of Detroit City Football Club’s women’s side. Additionally, Easter has been tabbed head coach of the inaugural reserve team set to compete in the United Women’s Soccer League Two. 

“George and Patrick bring years of experience at a variety of levels to the field,” said women’s first-team Head Coach Sam Piraine. “George has been coaching soccer for over 12 years and currently coaches both collegiately and high school.

“George took over Livonia City’s program last year and visited Hamtramck as part of the Keyworth Showcase. He’s been around the Club since its start in 2012, and we are excited to have him guide our reserve team.”  

Easter comes to Detroit City after spending last season as the head coach for Livonia City FC’s women’s first team. He was promoted to the post after serving as head coach for Livonia City’s reserve squad. 

“I’m just looking forward to working with this great club, Coach Sam, and all the great players and coaches that are involved with this women’s soccer program,” said Easter. “I’ve been a fan of DCFC since the men’s inaugural season, and have attended many matches as a supporter. 

I know this club holds a high standard and strives for excellence, and it’s just a blessing for me to be part of that. I can’t wait to get things started, and I look forward to helping DCFC build one of the top women’s soccer programs in the country.”

Easter will continue in his roles as assistant coach with the women’s soccer program at the University of Michigan – Dearborn and as head coach for the girls varsity team at Waterford Mott High School while on Le Rouge’s women’s technical staff.

Griffin has coached youth soccer in the state of Michigan for 18 years and played collegiately at Madonna University in Livonia. While working with the City women’s first team, the Plymouth native will continue in his current position as Technical Director for Michigan Tigers FC. 

“I’m really looking forward to getting on the field and working with the team and staff to put out a product that the city, supporters, and organization will be proud of,” Griffin said.

Charlie Bell, Kyle Winningham and Jon Evans will carry over from the inaugural season’s staff. 

The reserve team’s roster will be composed of top players from Detroit City FC’s Youth Affiliates (City, Downriver, Genesee, West) as well as college players from around the region.

Prospective players interested in learning more about Detroit City FC’s women’s program are encouraged to contact women’s first-team head coach Sam Piraine at sam.piraine@https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/detcityfc. 

DETROIT, Michigan – Detroit City Football Club has named Javi Bautista the head coach for the newly established men’s U23 team set to compete in the Midwest Premier League starting this spring.   

“I am very excited to give Javi this opportunity,” said General Manager and Men’s First Team Head Coach Trevor James. “He is a young and keen coach with strong ties to the Club. As my assistant, he’s been immersed in our culture over the last two years and has grown tremendously as both a coach and a man-manager. 

“Javi’s appointment is a great fit for the Club, an integral step in his coaching development, and an excellent opportunity for the U23 players to have a direct connection to the first team.”

Bautista currently serves as assistant coach on the men’s First Team staff – a post he has held for the past two seasons. This fall, Bautista earned his first professional result as a head coach, stepping in for James in Le Rouge’s 0-0 draw at the New York Cosmos. 

DETROIT, Michigan – Detroit City Football Club has named Javi Bautista the head coach for the newly established men’s U23 team set to compete in the Midwest Premier League starting this spring.   

“I am very excited to give Javi this opportunity,” said General Manager and Men’s First Team Head Coach Trevor James. “He is a young and keen coach with strong ties to the Club. As my assistant, he’s been immersed in our culture over the last two years and has grown tremendously as both a coach and a man-manager. 

“Javi’s appointment is a great fit for the Club, an integral step in his coaching development, and an excellent opportunity for the U23 players to have a direct connection to the first team.”

Bautista currently serves as assistant coach on the men’s First Team staff – a post he has held for the past two seasons. This fall, Bautista earned his first professional result as a head coach, stepping in for James in Le Rouge’s 0-0 draw at the New York Cosmos. 

In 2018, City tabbed Bautista to lead the Detroit City FC/Detroit PAL City Select program – a non-profit soccer program to provide professional coaching, training and a higher level of competition for Detroit youth interested in soccer. 

Bautista played for Detroit City FC during the 2015 and 2016 campaigns. He completed his Masters in Sports Education at Gardner-Webb University, where he was a graduate assistant for the soccer program prior to joining Le Rouge’s technical staff. Bautista played collegiately at Ashford University.

The new men’s team will compete in the Midwest Premier league and be rostered primarily by amateur reserves from the men’s first team, collegiate players from across the region, and top youth players from the DCFC youth system. Players on the new team will be primarily under the age of 23, but not exclusively. 

Any prospective players wishing to learn more about Detroit City’s U23 team are encouraged to email Coach Bautista at javi@https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/detcityfc. Please include playing highlights and CV if available. 

In 2018, City tabbed Bautista to lead the Detroit City FC/Detroit PAL City Select program – a non-profit soccer program to provide professional coaching, training and a higher level of competition for Detroit youth interested in soccer. 

Bautista played for Detroit City FC during the 2015 and 2016 campaigns. He completed his Masters in Sports Education at Gardner-Webb University, where he was a graduate assistant for the soccer program prior to joining Le Rouge’s technical staff. Bautista played collegiately at Ashford University.

The new men’s team will compete in the Midwest Premier league and be rostered primarily by amateur reserves from the men’s first team, collegiate players from across the region, and top youth players from the DCFC youth system. Players on the new team will be primarily under the age of 23, but not exclusively. 

Any prospective players wishing to learn more about Detroit City’s U23 team are encouraged to email Coach Bautista at javi@https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/detcityfc. Please include playing highlights and CV if available. 

DETROIT, Michigan – Detroit City Football Club has announced the addition of a U23 team to the men’s side, set to kick off in 2021. The new men’s team will compete in the Midwest Premier league, and be rostered primarily by amateur reserves from the men’s first team, collegiate players from across the region, and top youth players from the DCFC youth system. 

Players on the new team will be primarily under the age of 23, but not exclusively. 

“We believe in building a club that you will never grow out of,” said CEO/Co-Owner Sean Mann. “This development team on the men’s side completes that pathway from our youth affiliates all the way to the first team, as well as give valuable playing experience for more players in our system.”

DETROIT, Michigan – Detroit City Football Club has announced the addition of a U23 team to the men’s side, set to kick off in 2021. The new men’s team will compete in the Midwest Premier league, and be rostered primarily by amateur reserves from the men’s first team, collegiate players from across the region, and top youth players from the DCFC youth system. 

Players on the new team will be primarily under the age of 23, but not exclusively. 

“We believe in building a club that you will never grow out of,” said CEO/Co-Owner Sean Mann. “This development team on the men’s side completes that pathway from our youth affiliates all the way to the first team, as well as give valuable playing experience for more players in our system.”

The men’s first team claimed the 2020 NISA Fall title, along with the 2020 Great Lakes Region crown of the NISA Independent Cup. 

The MWPL is a regional soccer league that is operated and managed by its member teams. The goal of the league is focused on sustainability, promoting high-level competition among clubs, encouraging participation in regional and national cup competitions, and supporting all of our member clubs through sharing of ideas and best practices. 

The MWPL originally announced its formation in September 2019 with the goal of kicking off in Spring of 2020, but due to the COVID-19 pandemic canceled the 2020 campaign. Earlier this fall, NISA and the MWPL announced an affiliation that allots for at least two merit-based spots in the annual NISA Independent Cup. 

Detroit City FC’s men’s U23 side joins the East Division along with: Livonia FC, Lake St. Clair, BiH Grand Rapids, Lansing Common FC and Inter Detroit. The West Division is comprised of: Union Dubuque FC, RWB Adria, DeKalb County United, Cedar Rapids Inferno, FC Diablos, Rockford FC, Milwaukee Bavarians and Edgewater Castle FC. 

Le Rouge announced earlier in December the addition of a reserve team on the women’s side. The women’s reserve squad will compete in UWS League Two starting in 2021. 

To learn more about DCFC’s Affiliates, visit dcfcyouth.com. For more on the MWPL, visit midwestpl.com. 

The men’s first team claimed the 2020 NISA Fall title, along with the 2020 Great Lakes Region crown of the NISA Independent Cup. 

The MWPL is a regional soccer league that is operated and managed by its member teams. The goal of the league is focused on sustainability, promoting high-level competition among clubs, encouraging participation in regional and national cup competitions, and supporting all of our member clubs through sharing of ideas and best practices. 

The MWPL originally announced its formation in September 2019 with the goal of kicking off in Spring of 2020, but due to the COVID-19 pandemic canceled the 2020 campaign. Earlier this fall, NISA and the MWPL announced an affiliation that allots for at least two merit-based spots in the annual NISA Independent Cup. 

Detroit City FC’s men’s U23 side joins the East Division along with: Livonia FC, Lake St. Clair, BiH Grand Rapids, Lansing Common FC and Inter Detroit. The West Division is comprised of: Union Dubuque FC, RWB Adria, DeKalb County United, Cedar Rapids Inferno, FC Diablos, Rockford FC, Milwaukee Bavarians and Edgewater Castle FC. 

Le Rouge announced earlier in December the addition of a reserve team on the women’s side. The women’s reserve squad will compete in UWS League Two starting in 2021. 

To learn more about DCFC’s Affiliates, visit dcfcyouth.com. For more on the MWPL, visit midwestpl.com. 

Looking to create a clear pathway to the first team, Detroit City FC has added a reserve squad to the women’s side. 

2021 Women’s Team Tryouts

DETROIT, Michigan – Detroit City Football Club has announced the addition of a reserve squad to the women’s side for the 2021 season and beyond. The women’s reserve side is set to compete in League Two of United Women’s Soccer. 

“Adding the reserve side is the next natural step,” said CEO/Co-Owner Sean Mann. “We are committed to the growth of the Club and creating a clear pathway to the first teams from our youth affiliates.” 

The reserve team’s roster will be composed primarily of top players from Detroit City FC’s Youth Affiliates (City, Downriver, Genesee, West). 

"We are extremely excited to be adding a team to the UWS2 in 2021,” women’s head coach Sam Piraine said. “Detroit City continues to grow in the community and on the pitch, and joining League Two will give our players the proper pathway to be competitive and prepared for the next step in their careers.”

The women’s first team competes in UWS League One within the Midwest Conference. The reserve team is expected to join the Great Lakes Conference with AFC Plymouth, Corktown FC, Grand Haven Admirals, Livonia City FC, Legends FC, NOSC Michigan and Rebels FC. 

The Le Rouge women’s side made its debut in 2020. City announced 36 players to the initial roster before COVID protocols required the roster size be cut down to ensure the health and safety of the players and staff. 

Tryouts for the 2021 season are tentatively set for January but are subject to change. Interested players in the Detroit City FC women’s side are asked to visit https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/detcityfc/tryouts and fill out the informational questionnaire to be contacted by the technical staff. 

Formed in 2015, UWS is a national league with teams playing in regional conferences and is the second division of women’s soccer, below the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL). Learn more about the UWS at uwssoccer.com. 

To learn more about DCFC’s Affiliates, visit dcfcyouth.com. 

Looking to create a clear pathway to the first team, Detroit City FC has added a reserve squad to the women’s side. 

2021 Women’s Team Tryouts

DETROIT, Michigan – Detroit City Football Club has announced the addition of a reserve squad to the women’s side for the 2021 season and beyond. The women’s reserve side is set to compete in League Two of United Women’s Soccer. 

“Adding the reserve side is the next natural step,” said CEO/Co-Owner Sean Mann. “We are committed to the growth of the Club and creating a clear pathway to the first teams from our youth affiliates.” 

The reserve team’s roster will be composed primarily of top players from Detroit City FC’s Youth Affiliates (City, Downriver, Genesee, West). 

“We are extremely excited to be adding a team to the UWS2 in 2021,” women’s head coach Sam Piraine said. “Detroit City continues to grow in the community and on the pitch, and joining League Two will give our players the proper pathway to be competitive and prepared for the next step in their careers.”

The women’s first team competes in UWS League One within the Midwest Conference. The reserve team is expected to join the Great Lakes Conference with AFC Plymouth, Corktown FC, Grand Haven Admirals, Livonia City FC, Legends FC, NOSC Michigan and Rebels FC. 

The Le Rouge women’s side made its debut in 2020. City announced 36 players to the initial roster before COVID protocols required the roster size be cut down to ensure the health and safety of the players and staff. 

Tryouts for the 2021 season are tentatively set for January but are subject to change. Interested players in the Detroit City FC women’s side are asked to visit https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/detcityfc/tryouts and fill out the informational questionnaire to be contacted by the technical staff. 

Formed in 2015, UWS is a national league with teams playing in regional conferences and is the second division of women’s soccer, below the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL). Learn more about the UWS at uwssoccer.com. 

To learn more about DCFC’s Affiliates, visit dcfcyouth.com. 

DETROIT, Michigan – The Detroit City Football Club and General Manager/Men’s Side Head Coach Trevor James have agreed to a three-year contract extension. James was announced as the club’s head coach on January 4, 2019. 

With James at the helm, City has claimed the 2019 Member’s Cup and 2020 NISA Fall Championship titles. 

“Detroit was once known as the City of Champions,” said CEO Sean Mann. “We firmly believe Detroit deserves winning sports teams and Trevor and his teams have brought nothing but trophies to town since he has taken the club to the professional ranks. We’re excited for what is to come over the next three years with Trevor at the helm.”

In the club’s first year in the professional ranks as a member of NISA, the Gaffer led Le Rouge to the Great Lakes Region title of the inaugural NISA Independent Cup. After a 1-2-1 mark in table play, James and City rebounded from a first-match loss in the 2020 NISA Fall Championship Tournament to win four-straight and claim the Fall title, defeating the Oakland Roots 2-1 in the finals. Detroit City FC will host the Spring NISA champion at Keyworth next June. 

“Our first year with NISA as a professional club certainly wasn’t what we imagined back in February, but Trevor and (Assistant GM) Tiffany (James) put the health and safety of the players, staff and community first and still came away with a pair of trophies to add to the Clubhouse,” Mann said. 

In James’ first season with Le Rouge, City claimed the 2019 NPSL Great Lakes Division, finishing the 14-match regular season campaign with a +33 goal differential (39 goals for, 6 goals against). Detroit City went nine complete matches without surrendering a goal. 

City cemented its Member’s Cup title with a 1-0 victory over the Michigan Stars en route to a two-point edge over the New York Cosmos in the table. 

“I feel very fortunate to continue this journey at Detroit City FC,” said James. “I look forward to building on the championship culture we have fostered over my first two years. To the owners, thank you for this opportunity and for entrusting me with your vision. To the players and staff, thank you for your hard work, for believing in the process and for your commitment to excellence. To the supporters, thank you for your unwavering support. You are what makes this club special.”

DETROIT, Michigan – The Detroit City Football Club and General Manager/Men’s Side Head Coach Trevor James have agreed to a three-year contract extension. James was announced as the club’s head coach on January 4, 2019. 

With James at the helm, City has claimed the 2019 Member’s Cup and 2020 NISA Fall Championship titles. 

“Detroit was once known as the City of Champions,” said CEO Sean Mann. “We firmly believe Detroit deserves winning sports teams and Trevor and his teams have brought nothing but trophies to town since he has taken the club to the professional ranks. We’re excited for what is to come over the next three years with Trevor at the helm.”

In the club’s first year in the professional ranks as a member of NISA, the Gaffer led Le Rouge to the Great Lakes Region title of the inaugural NISA Independent Cup. After a 1-2-1 mark in table play, James and City rebounded from a first-match loss in the 2020 NISA Fall Championship Tournament to win four-straight and claim the Fall title, defeating the Oakland Roots 2-1 in the finals. Detroit City FC will host the Spring NISA champion at Keyworth next June. 

“Our first year with NISA as a professional club certainly wasn’t what we imagined back in February, but Trevor and (Assistant GM) Tiffany (James) put the health and safety of the players, staff and community first and still came away with a pair of trophies to add to the Clubhouse,” Mann said. 

In James’ first season with Le Rouge, City claimed the 2019 NPSL Great Lakes Division, finishing the 14-match regular season campaign with a +33 goal differential (39 goals for, 6 goals against). Detroit City went nine complete matches without surrendering a goal. 

City cemented its Member’s Cup title with a 1-0 victory over the Michigan Stars en route to a two-point edge over the New York Cosmos in the table. 

“I feel very fortunate to continue this journey at Detroit City FC,” said James. “I look forward to building on the championship culture we have fostered over my first two years. To the owners, thank you for this opportunity and for entrusting me with your vision. To the players and staff, thank you for your hard work, for believing in the process and for your commitment to excellence. To the supporters, thank you for your unwavering support. You are what makes this club special.”

A date for an exclusive Zoom call with the Gaffer for Gold Card members will be announced in December. 

Following his retirement from professional soccer in 1985, James moved into the coaching ranks with stints as staff at Ipswich Town FC and Colchester United before working for Sir Bobby Robson as a freelance scout at FC Barcelona (‘96-’97), Newcastle (‘01-’02), FC Porto (‘94-’96), Sporting Lisbon (‘92) and the England national team during the buildup to the 1990 World Cup.

From 2006-2010, James was Assistant Coach for the Los Angeles Galaxy of Major League Soccer, serving under three different head coaches during his tenure (Frank Yallop, Ruud Gullit, and Bruce Arena), as well as serving as the interim head coach on two occasions. In addition to his first team duties, he was promoted to Director of Player Development where he oversaw the creation and growth of the LA Galaxy Youth Academy.

As one of the most respected and longest serving assistant coaches in MLS, James served as Assistant Head Coach for the Portland Timbers from 2010-2012. From 2014 to 2015, James was the Director of Scouting and Assistant Technical Director for the Chicago Fire before he returned to a coaching role with Indy Eleven of the North American Soccer League (NASL) for the league’s final season. He was named Technical Director of Indy Eleven in 2017 and oversaw the club’s transition to USL.
 

A date for an exclusive Zoom call with the Gaffer for Gold Card members will be announced in December. 

Following his retirement from professional soccer in 1985, James moved into the coaching ranks with stints as staff at Ipswich Town FC and Colchester United before working for Sir Bobby Robson as a freelance scout at FC Barcelona (‘96-’97), Newcastle (‘01-’02), FC Porto (‘94-’96), Sporting Lisbon (‘92) and the England national team during the buildup to the 1990 World Cup.

From 2006-2010, James was Assistant Coach for the Los Angeles Galaxy of Major League Soccer, serving under three different head coaches during his tenure (Frank Yallop, Ruud Gullit, and Bruce Arena), as well as serving as the interim head coach on two occasions. In addition to his first team duties, he was promoted to Director of Player Development where he oversaw the creation and growth of the LA Galaxy Youth Academy.

As one of the most respected and longest serving assistant coaches in MLS, James served as Assistant Head Coach for the Portland Timbers from 2010-2012. From 2014 to 2015, James was the Director of Scouting and Assistant Technical Director for the Chicago Fire before he returned to a coaching role with Indy Eleven of the North American Soccer League (NASL) for the league’s final season. He was named Technical Director of Indy Eleven in 2017 and oversaw the club’s transition to USL.
 

Looking to secure long-term growth, Detroit City FC adds T.J. Winfrey and Chris Busyn to strengthen its local and national footprint and leverage corporate, media and community partners to grow the reach of the Club. 

DETROIT, Michigan – The Detroit City Football Club, looking to secure long-term growth and new media opportunities, welcomes T.J. Winfrey and Chris Busyn to the Club in the roles of Chief of Partnerships and Vice President of Corporate Partnership, respectively. 

Winfrey comes home to Detroit after spending the past two years with Major League Soccer as the Director of Digital Partnerships. 

Busyn has spent the past five years with iHeartMedia as a Senior Account Executive, responsible for selling multi-integrated advertising partnerships for all aspects of iHeartMedia through local and national advertising campaigns as well as the iHeartMedia Digital Platform.

Winfrey will be tasked with overseeing the growth of Detroit City FC’s media partnerships, leveraging corporate and community contacts to grow the reach of the Club, while Busyn will be focused on growing City’s corporate partnerships and television/media assets.

“We are thrilled to add T.J. and Chris to the Club in leadership roles,” said Detroit City FC CEO Sean Mann. “As we look to 2021 and beyond, we felt it was important to recognize revenue needs to deal with the likely ongoing effects of the pandemic as well as take advantage of evolving opportunities for growth in the community and beyond as Detroit’s soccer team.” 

Winfrey was active in MLS’ growth on digital platforms, including the likes of 433, Bleacher Report, CBS Sports, ESPN+, Facebook, Overtime, Pluto TV, SendtoNews, Spotify, Twitch and Twitter, into MLS matrix, as well as playing a leadership role with the league's response to social injustice. 

Prior to his time in New York with the MLS, the Columbia Business School grad spent time with Courtside Ventures, Madison Square Garden, Microsoft, Nike and Target. 

Winfrey’s role with Courtside Ventures focused on vetting a global market of startups in media, sports, gaming and fitness. He researched and presented technology trends for the future of these industries. 

Busyn joins Le Rouge with more than 25 years of experience in multi-integrated advertising, corporate sponsorship and partnership sales. 

Before joining iHeartMedia, Busyn was responsible for selling multi-integrated advertising partnerships for all aspects of CBS Radio Detroit through the Play-by-Play broadcasts of the Tigers, Red Wings and Lions, as well as WXYT-FM  (97.1 The Ticket), WXYT-AM, CBS Radio Events and CBSDetroit.com. In less than four years, the University of Tennessee – Martin grad generated $1.7M in new business. 

Busyn comes with experience from the media side, spending nine years with Fox Sports Detroit, the venue side with Michigan International Speedway and Palace Sports & Entertainment, and the team side.

Detroit City FC is in the process of concluding its historic Be An Owner campaign – headlined by punk rock legend Iggy Pop – that saw more than 3,500 investors pledge more than $1.8 million for equity in the Club. On the pitch, City’s men’s team lifted the 2020 National Independent Soccer Association Fall trophy, claiming Detroit’s first professional championship since 2008 in the club’s first year pro. The Le Rouge women’s team gears up for year two in 2021.

Founded in 2012, Detroit City FC has established itself as one of the most talked about soccer teams in North America. The club’s motto, Passion for Our City, Passion for the Game, evokes the three ideas the grassroots organization was built upon: to satisfy the demand for soccer in downtown Detroit, represent the city in a positive light, and build community through the beautiful game. Learn more at https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/detcityfc.

Looking to secure long-term growth, Detroit City FC adds T.J. Winfrey and Chris Busyn to strengthen its local and national footprint and leverage corporate, media and community partners to grow the reach of the Club. 

DETROIT, Michigan – The Detroit City Football Club, looking to secure long-term growth and new media opportunities, welcomes T.J. Winfrey and Chris Busyn to the Club in the roles of Chief of Partnerships and Vice President of Corporate Partnership, respectively. 

Winfrey comes home to Detroit after spending the past two years with Major League Soccer as the Director of Digital Partnerships. 

Busyn has spent the past five years with iHeartMedia as a Senior Account Executive, responsible for selling multi-integrated advertising partnerships for all aspects of iHeartMedia through local and national advertising campaigns as well as the iHeartMedia Digital Platform.

Winfrey will be tasked with overseeing the growth of Detroit City FC’s media partnerships, leveraging corporate and community contacts to grow the reach of the Club, while Busyn will be focused on growing City’s corporate partnerships and television/media assets.

“We are thrilled to add T.J. and Chris to the Club in leadership roles,” said Detroit City FC CEO Sean Mann. “As we look to 2021 and beyond, we felt it was important to recognize revenue needs to deal with the likely ongoing effects of the pandemic as well as take advantage of evolving opportunities for growth in the community and beyond as Detroit’s soccer team.” 

Winfrey was active in MLS’ growth on digital platforms, including the likes of 433, Bleacher Report, CBS Sports, ESPN+, Facebook, Overtime, Pluto TV, SendtoNews, Spotify, Twitch and Twitter, into MLS matrix, as well as playing a leadership role with the league’s response to social injustice. 

Prior to his time in New York with the MLS, the Columbia Business School grad spent time with Courtside Ventures, Madison Square Garden, Microsoft, Nike and Target. 

Winfrey’s role with Courtside Ventures focused on vetting a global market of startups in media, sports, gaming and fitness. He researched and presented technology trends for the future of these industries. 

Busyn joins Le Rouge with more than 25 years of experience in multi-integrated advertising, corporate sponsorship and partnership sales. 

Before joining iHeartMedia, Busyn was responsible for selling multi-integrated advertising partnerships for all aspects of CBS Radio Detroit through the Play-by-Play broadcasts of the Tigers, Red Wings and Lions, as well as WXYT-FM  (97.1 The Ticket), WXYT-AM, CBS Radio Events and CBSDetroit.com. In less than four years, the University of Tennessee – Martin grad generated $1.7M in new business. 

Busyn comes with experience from the media side, spending nine years with Fox Sports Detroit, the venue side with Michigan International Speedway and Palace Sports & Entertainment, and the team side.

Detroit City FC is in the process of concluding its historic Be An Owner campaign – headlined by punk rock legend Iggy Pop – that saw more than 3,500 investors pledge more than $1.8 million for equity in the Club. On the pitch, City’s men’s team lifted the 2020 National Independent Soccer Association Fall trophy, claiming Detroit’s first professional championship since 2008 in the club’s first year pro. The Le Rouge women’s team gears up for year two in 2021.

Founded in 2012, Detroit City FC has established itself as one of the most talked about soccer teams in North America. The club’s motto, Passion for Our City, Passion for the Game, evokes the three ideas the grassroots organization was built upon: to satisfy the demand for soccer in downtown Detroit, represent the city in a positive light, and build community through the beautiful game. Learn more at https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/detcityfc.

Throughout the 2020 offseason, Detroit City FC will be sharing the stories – both on and off the pitch – of its men's and women's players. Next in our series is Sarah Huge and how her passion for teaching has led not just to playing career, but a career as a coach with DCFC West. 

Player Spotlight: Sarah Huge

Playing soccer post-collegiately was never an option that crossed Sarah Huge’s mind as she completed her degree at Michigan State University while recovering from a devastating knee injury that stunted her playing career with the Spartans. 

“I always had done summers locally in the Ann Arbor area and way back then someone mentioned that they were forming the Motor City team, semi-professional, and at the time I was thinking there is no way, that sounds way too beyond me.”

Huge returned to Metro Detroit with the focus not on her playing career, but one in the classroom teaching fourth graders in Ann Arbor. Her passion for the game never waivered though, as she found her way back to the pitch – first as coach, then as player. 

“It’s so rewarding. This is teaching on the field, which I love to do,” said Huge. “The interacting with the players but then also seeing the progress and the excitement they get after they have the success that they’ve been working for. I can help, I can coach, I can teach all the aspects of it but once they’re doing it, it’s them building their own confidence.” 

Huge spent time in the semi-professional ranks here in the local area before taking time away from the pitch for another new role…that of mom. 

After a few seasons playing and a couple off the pitch to have her two children, Huge found herself donning Rouge and Gold not as just a coach with DCFC West, but as a player. 

While playing is the gateway for most coaches, coaching was the pathway back onto the pitch for Huge. It was while coaching with the Canton Soccer Club, now DCFC West, Huge met City women’s head coach Sam Piraine. The two built a relationship as coaches which has now evolved to include a player-coach dynamic. 

Huge was a no doubt choice for Piraine when naming a captain for the inaugural Detroit City FC women’s team. For her entire professional career, Huge has shown an immense ability to lead, on and off the field. 

“Definitely surprised,” Huge said about being named captain. “I knew I was going to be involved in helping some way just because I have the connection of playing and coaching, but I had no idea that they were even planning to do captains.”

The importance of being named captain was something Huge was honored to accept and a position she takes with great pride. 

“The captain's role takes such a big and significant role with this club which is awesome. It’s different than you go and shake hands with the other captain before the game, and I really appreciate the opportunity.” 

Huge laughed, recalling texts from players she coaches congratulating her on being named captain of the women’s side. 

“It was really cool to see,” said Huge. “It was a motivation for them. And that is what I had hoped it would be. They could see me doing something beyond just their coach or beyond the stories of MSU from awhile ago and was hopefully inspiring.”

That connection back to the Club’s youth teams wasn’t just a point of emphasis for Huge, but from Piraine and the whole women’s coaching staff. 

“He (Piraine) was able to keep us all motivated and connected with the youth side and show that pathway is possible for so many that wasn’t an option years ago.” 

With the inaugural women’s season in the books, Huge is now back to full time coaching with her teams at West. 

“I am now beating my youth players in laps, it’s like ‘Let’s Go! Come on, I am 30 years old,’ I feel like there is no excuse now, so that is a fun part of it, ” joked Huge. 

The success of the DCFC women’s team is pioneering for young athletes that Huge coaches daily and for the future involvement of the club. 

“For me soccer was always a route to potentially go through education, get a degree and that was going to be it,” Huge said. 

But now, a different message is being sent to these young players. One that Huge is more than happy to provide. 

“You watch those players on TV, and you see all those fans, that’s what we have. You may have never thought you would play in front of a crowd like that, but you can.” 

Throughout the 2020 offseason, Detroit City FC will be sharing the stories – both on and off the pitch – of its men’s and women’s players. Next in our series is Sarah Huge and how her passion for teaching has led not just to playing career, but a career as a coach with DCFC West. 

Player Spotlight: Sarah Huge

Playing soccer post-collegiately was never an option that crossed Sarah Huge’s mind as she completed her degree at Michigan State University while recovering from a devastating knee injury that stunted her playing career with the Spartans. 

“I always had done summers locally in the Ann Arbor area and way back then someone mentioned that they were forming the Motor City team, semi-professional, and at the time I was thinking there is no way, that sounds way too beyond me.”

Huge returned to Metro Detroit with the focus not on her playing career, but one in the classroom teaching fourth graders in Ann Arbor. Her passion for the game never waivered though, as she found her way back to the pitch – first as coach, then as player. 

“It’s so rewarding. This is teaching on the field, which I love to do,” said Huge. “The interacting with the players but then also seeing the progress and the excitement they get after they have the success that they’ve been working for. I can help, I can coach, I can teach all the aspects of it but once they’re doing it, it’s them building their own confidence.” 

Huge spent time in the semi-professional ranks here in the local area before taking time away from the pitch for another new role…that of mom. 

After a few seasons playing and a couple off the pitch to have her two children, Huge found herself donning Rouge and Gold not as just a coach with DCFC West, but as a player. 

While playing is the gateway for most coaches, coaching was the pathway back onto the pitch for Huge. It was while coaching with the Canton Soccer Club, now DCFC West, Huge met City women’s head coach Sam Piraine. The two built a relationship as coaches which has now evolved to include a player-coach dynamic. 

Huge was a no doubt choice for Piraine when naming a captain for the inaugural Detroit City FC women’s team. For her entire professional career, Huge has shown an immense ability to lead, on and off the field. 

“Definitely surprised,” Huge said about being named captain. “I knew I was going to be involved in helping some way just because I have the connection of playing and coaching, but I had no idea that they were even planning to do captains.”

The importance of being named captain was something Huge was honored to accept and a position she takes with great pride. 

“The captain’s role takes such a big and significant role with this club which is awesome. It’s different than you go and shake hands with the other captain before the game, and I really appreciate the opportunity.” 

Huge laughed, recalling texts from players she coaches congratulating her on being named captain of the women’s side. 

“It was really cool to see,” said Huge. “It was a motivation for them. And that is what I had hoped it would be. They could see me doing something beyond just their coach or beyond the stories of MSU from awhile ago and was hopefully inspiring.”

That connection back to the Club’s youth teams wasn’t just a point of emphasis for Huge, but from Piraine and the whole women’s coaching staff. 

“He (Piraine) was able to keep us all motivated and connected with the youth side and show that pathway is possible for so many that wasn’t an option years ago.” 

With the inaugural women’s season in the books, Huge is now back to full time coaching with her teams at West. 

“I am now beating my youth players in laps, it’s like ‘Let’s Go! Come on, I am 30 years old,’ I feel like there is no excuse now, so that is a fun part of it, ” joked Huge. 

The success of the DCFC women’s team is pioneering for young athletes that Huge coaches daily and for the future involvement of the club. 

“For me soccer was always a route to potentially go through education, get a degree and that was going to be it,” Huge said. 

But now, a different message is being sent to these young players. One that Huge is more than happy to provide. 

“You watch those players on TV, and you see all those fans, that’s what we have. You may have never thought you would play in front of a crowd like that, but you can.”