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Forward Madison FC has signed 24-year-old goalkeeper Brandon Barnes, the final non-loan player to join the team’s inaugural roster before its USL League One season starts Saturday in Chattanooga, Tenn. Barnes played last season with the Richmond Kickers of the USL Championship, and he becomes the third former Richmond player to join FMFC, due in part to the recruiting connections of assistant coach and ex-Kicker Neil Hlavaty.

“When I found out that I didn’t have a place to go, the first person I called was Neil,” Barnes said. “Given the opportunity to play here and sign with a team in their inaugural year, it’s an honor.”

Barnes went on trial for several weeks in preseason before Forward Madison’s coaching staff decided to offer him a contract. According to Head Coach Daryl Shore, Barnes will come in as a backup, but has the qualities to fight for starts.

“All of our goalkeepers are brought in knowing it’s a competition, and they have to push each other to make each other better,” Shore said.  “Brandon’s a quality goalkeeper who’s young and has a great upside. He’s athletic, he’s a good shot-stopper and he is pretty good with his feet as well.”

Barnes signed with Richmond last year as the third-string goalkeeper, but worked his way up to earn four starts near the end of the year. In Madison, Barnes said he’s ready to take his time, learn and get better.

“It’s definitely exciting to be here,” Barnes said. “As a backup, your job is to support, encourage and push people in front of you to make them better. And then when you get your chance, you take it.”

Brandon’s signing will be confirmed pending league and federation approval. Follow Brandon on Instagram at @brandon_barnes33.

Forward Madison FC’s inaugural season is nearly here! The team will kick off its first-ever game on April 6 at Chattanooga Red Wolves, and open at home on April 27 vs Greenville Triumph SC. Get tickets to see Brandon and the rest of the team in Forward Madison’s inaugural season at: https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/forwardmadisonfc/tickets.

Forward Madison FC has signed 24-year-old goalkeeper Brandon Barnes, the final non-loan player to join the team’s inaugural roster before its USL League One season starts Saturday in Chattanooga, Tenn. Barnes played last season with the Richmond Kickers of the USL Championship, and he becomes the third former Richmond player to join FMFC, due in part to the recruiting connections of assistant coach and ex-Kicker Neil Hlavaty.

“When I found out that I didn’t have a place to go, the first person I called was Neil,” Barnes said. “Given the opportunity to play here and sign with a team in their inaugural year, it’s an honor.”

Barnes went on trial for several weeks in preseason before Forward Madison’s coaching staff decided to offer him a contract. According to Head Coach Daryl Shore, Barnes will come in as a backup, but has the qualities to fight for starts.

“All of our goalkeepers are brought in knowing it’s a competition, and they have to push each other to make each other better,” Shore said.  “Brandon’s a quality goalkeeper who’s young and has a great upside. He’s athletic, he’s a good shot-stopper and he is pretty good with his feet as well.”

Barnes signed with Richmond last year as the third-string goalkeeper, but worked his way up to earn four starts near the end of the year. In Madison, Barnes said he’s ready to take his time, learn and get better.

“It’s definitely exciting to be here,” Barnes said. “As a backup, your job is to support, encourage and push people in front of you to make them better. And then when you get your chance, you take it.”

Brandon’s signing will be confirmed pending league and federation approval. Follow Brandon on Instagram at @brandon_barnes33.

Forward Madison FC’s inaugural season is nearly here! The team will kick off its first-ever game on April 6 at Chattanooga Red Wolves, and open at home on April 27 vs Greenville Triumph SC. Get tickets to see Brandon and the rest of the team in Forward Madison’s inaugural season at: https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/forwardmadisonfc/tickets.

At last, Forward Madison FC and Minnesota United FC have come to an agreement on a massive transaction fans from both clubs have been waiting for. PK, Minnesota’s mascot since 2014, will be loaned to Forward Madison for the remainder of the USL League One season.

“Really, this was a difficult decision to make,” MNUFC Sporting Director Manny Lagos said. “I thought that, in the end, PK could use some time in Madison to develop. Last season we weren’t always fully convinced, and with Madison in need of a mascot, it was the perfect deal for both clubs.”

For Forward Madison Managing Director Peter Wilt, fans can expect PK to mesh well with the squad, despite the fact that it is a loon, and not a flamingo. Other than that, Wilt said, PK is a perfect fit for FMFC.

“Outside of having a flamingo mascot, getting PK on loan for the year is a tremendous boost to our club,” Wilt said. “Leaving it late is never ideal, but with a week to go until the regular season starts, we are very grateful that Manny and Minnesota were willing to work a deal with us.”

Signing the contract with its beak made it difficult for PK to give a statement, although he did say that it would be a good idea for fans to read the first letter of every sentence in this press release.

Forward Madison FC’s inaugural season is nearly here! The team will kick off its first-ever game on April 6 in Chattanooga, and open at home on April 27 vs Greenville Triumph SC. Get tickets to see Forward Madison’s inaugural season at: https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/forwardmadisonfc/tickets.

At last, Forward Madison FC and Minnesota United FC have come to an agreement on a massive transaction fans from both clubs have been waiting for. PK, Minnesota’s mascot since 2014, will be loaned to Forward Madison for the remainder of the USL League One season.

“Really, this was a difficult decision to make,” MNUFC Sporting Director Manny Lagos said. “I thought that, in the end, PK could use some time in Madison to develop. Last season we weren’t always fully convinced, and with Madison in need of a mascot, it was the perfect deal for both clubs.”

For Forward Madison Managing Director Peter Wilt, fans can expect PK to mesh well with the squad, despite the fact that it is a loon, and not a flamingo. Other than that, Wilt said, PK is a perfect fit for FMFC.

“Outside of having a flamingo mascot, getting PK on loan for the year is a tremendous boost to our club,” Wilt said. “Leaving it late is never ideal, but with a week to go until the regular season starts, we are very grateful that Manny and Minnesota were willing to work a deal with us.”

Signing the contract with its beak made it difficult for PK to give a statement, although he did say that it would be a good idea for fans to read the first letter of every sentence in this press release.

Forward Madison FC’s inaugural season is nearly here! The team will kick off its first-ever game on April 6 in Chattanooga, and open at home on April 27 vs Greenville Triumph SC. Get tickets to see Forward Madison’s inaugural season at: https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/forwardmadisonfc/tickets.

MILWAUKEE, WI – Forward Madison FC closed out its preseason schedule Saturday night with a decisive 4-1 victory over Marquette University at the Marquette Dome in Milwaukee. Winger Paulo Jr. put on a show for the travelling FMFC supporters, scoring a hat trick and earning Mingo of the Match honors.

Paulo’s first goal came in just the 5th minute, as he found space on the left-hand side off a Forward counter-attack and curled  his shot past the goalkeeper from long-range. He scored his second in similar fashion 12 minutes later, going one-on-one with the goalkeeper before a slotting a cool finish into the far-side netting.

Marquette pulled a goal back in the 23rd minute, with Josh Coan’s tidy footwork creating  enough space to drag the ball across the turf and beyond the outstretched hands of goalkeeper Ryan Coulter. The score stayed at 2-1 through halftime without any big chances on either side, although play stopped for several minutes as FMFC midfielder Josiel Núñez recuperated from a slight knock.

The second half began well for the Flamingos, and striker Mason Toye (in training with Forward Madison from Minnesota United) made it better by finishing off a superb Forward move to take the score to 3-1 at the hour mark. Paulo completed his his trick in the 74th minute, firing home from the top of the 18-yard box.

Saturday’s win proved to be a special night not only for the players, but also for the fans. The Flock, Forward Madison’s independent supporters’ association, took a bus down to the game, singing, chanting and waving flags for the whole 90 minutes. FMFC’s players showed their appreciation after the final whistle, coming over to the sideline to applaud the fans and exchange handshakes and high-fives.

The match also provided some goalkeeper intrigue, as regular starter Brian Sylvestre sat on the sideline dealing with a hand injury. With the position open, Ryan Coulter stepped in for the first half, while Dayne St. Clair (currently training with FMFC from Minnesota United) played the second.

Forward Madison finishes its preseason with three wins in total, including two in a row to end its schedule. From here, the Flamingos will travel to Tennessee for its inaugural USL League One game against Chattanooga Red Wolves on Saturday, April 6. The match will be broadcast live on ESPN+.

Forward Madison FC: Ryan Coulter (Dayne St. Clair 45’); Christian “Pato” Dïaz, Wyattt Omsberg, Connor Tobin, Carter Manley; Eric Leonard (Jeff Michaud 62’), J.C. Banks, Josiel Núñez; Paulo Jr. [goals 5’ 18’ 74’] (Brian Bement 88’), Don Smart, Mason Toye [goal. 60’]

Marquette University: Gabe Kash, Manuel Cukaj, Pat Seagrist, Alan Salmeron, Lukas Sunesson, Connor Alba, Josh Coan [goal 23'], Sam Thornton, Zak Wegner, Oliver Posarelli, Cedrik Stern

Forward Madison FC’s inaugural season is nearly here! The team will kick off its first-ever game on April 6 in Chattanooga, and open at home on April 27 vs Greenville Triumph SC. Get tickets to see Forward Madison’s inaugural season at: https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/forwardmadisonfc/tickets.

MILWAUKEE, WI – Forward Madison FC closed out its preseason schedule Saturday night with a decisive 4-1 victory over Marquette University at the Marquette Dome in Milwaukee. Winger Paulo Jr. put on a show for the travelling FMFC supporters, scoring a hat trick and earning Mingo of the Match honors.

Paulo’s first goal came in just the 5th minute, as he found space on the left-hand side off a Forward counter-attack and curled  his shot past the goalkeeper from long-range. He scored his second in similar fashion 12 minutes later, going one-on-one with the goalkeeper before a slotting a cool finish into the far-side netting.

Marquette pulled a goal back in the 23rd minute, with Josh Coan’s tidy footwork creating  enough space to drag the ball across the turf and beyond the outstretched hands of goalkeeper Ryan Coulter. The score stayed at 2-1 through halftime without any big chances on either side, although play stopped for several minutes as FMFC midfielder Josiel Núñez recuperated from a slight knock.

The second half began well for the Flamingos, and striker Mason Toye (in training with Forward Madison from Minnesota United) made it better by finishing off a superb Forward move to take the score to 3-1 at the hour mark. Paulo completed his his trick in the 74th minute, firing home from the top of the 18-yard box.

Saturday’s win proved to be a special night not only for the players, but also for the fans. The Flock, Forward Madison’s independent supporters’ association, took a bus down to the game, singing, chanting and waving flags for the whole 90 minutes. FMFC’s players showed their appreciation after the final whistle, coming over to the sideline to applaud the fans and exchange handshakes and high-fives.

The match also provided some goalkeeper intrigue, as regular starter Brian Sylvestre sat on the sideline dealing with a hand injury. With the position open, Ryan Coulter stepped in for the first half, while Dayne St. Clair (currently training with FMFC from Minnesota United) played the second.

Forward Madison finishes its preseason with three wins in total, including two in a row to end its schedule. From here, the Flamingos will travel to Tennessee for its inaugural USL League One game against Chattanooga Red Wolves on Saturday, April 6. The match will be broadcast live on ESPN+.

Forward Madison FC: Ryan Coulter (Dayne St. Clair 45’); Christian “Pato” Dïaz, Wyattt Omsberg, Connor Tobin, Carter Manley; Eric Leonard (Jeff Michaud 62’), J.C. Banks, Josiel Núñez; Paulo Jr. [goals 5’ 18’ 74’] (Brian Bement 88’), Don Smart, Mason Toye [goal. 60’]

Marquette University: Gabe Kash, Manuel Cukaj, Pat Seagrist, Alan Salmeron, Lukas Sunesson, Connor Alba, Josh Coan [goal 23′], Sam Thornton, Zak Wegner, Oliver Posarelli, Cedrik Stern

Forward Madison FC’s inaugural season is nearly here! The team will kick off its first-ever game on April 6 in Chattanooga, and open at home on April 27 vs Greenville Triumph SC. Get tickets to see Forward Madison’s inaugural season at: https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/forwardmadisonfc/tickets.

Preseason Friendly
Forward Madison FC at Marquette University Men's Soccer
Saturday, March 30, 2019 – 7:45 P.M. CST
Marquette Dome – Milwaukee, WI

Where to Watch
Free admission
Follow @ForwardMSNFC on Twitter for updates

One last warmup

Forward Madison FC will play its final preseason game – as well as its first with open admission for fans – Saturday night when it travels to Milwaukee to take on Marquette University Men's Soccer. The match will be the final chance for players to impress Head Coach Daryl Shore before the Flamingos' season opener away to Chattanooga Red Wolves on April 6.

Saturday’s game, hosted at the Marquette Dome, will be open to the public, and is thus a chance for fans to get a feel for how the team is coming together. The Flock, FMFC's independent supporters' association, has scheduled a bus trip down to Milwaukee for the game.

The Flamingos will have 24 players on-hand for the game. Along with 19 rostered players, FMFC will be joined by one player who has just signed his contract but is currently unannounced, and four Minnesota United players here in training.

Forward Madison took home a 7-1 victory over UW-Parkside in its previous preseason game on March 15, and will look to continue the trend as the team makes final preparations for the USL League One season, which officially gets underway Friday night. FMFC plays at home for the first time in a test run of Breese Stevens Field on April 16 before taking the pitch for its inaugural home opener on April 27.

Marquette went 7-9-3 in 2018, finishing fourth in the Big East conference. The team is coached by Louis Bennett, who led the Golden Eagles to a Sweet 16 appearance in 2013.

Forward Madison FC’s inaugural season is nearly here! The team will kick off its first-ever game on April 6 in Chattanooga, and open at home on April 27 vs Greenville Triumph SC. Get tickets to see Forward Madison’s inaugural season at: https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/forwardmadisonfc/tickets.

Preseason Friendly
Forward Madison FC at Marquette University Men’s Soccer
Saturday, March 30, 2019 – 7:45 P.M. CST
Marquette Dome – Milwaukee, WI

Where to Watch
Free admission
Follow @ForwardMSNFC on Twitter for updates

One last warmup

Forward Madison FC will play its final preseason game – as well as its first with open admission for fans – Saturday night when it travels to Milwaukee to take on Marquette University Men’s Soccer. The match will be the final chance for players to impress Head Coach Daryl Shore before the Flamingos’ season opener away to Chattanooga Red Wolves on April 6.

Saturday’s game, hosted at the Marquette Dome, will be open to the public, and is thus a chance for fans to get a feel for how the team is coming together. The Flock, FMFC’s independent supporters’ association, has scheduled a bus trip down to Milwaukee for the game.

The Flamingos will have 24 players on-hand for the game. Along with 19 rostered players, FMFC will be joined by one player who has just signed his contract but is currently unannounced, and four Minnesota United players here in training.

Forward Madison took home a 7-1 victory over UW-Parkside in its previous preseason game on March 15, and will look to continue the trend as the team makes final preparations for the USL League One season, which officially gets underway Friday night. FMFC plays at home for the first time in a test run of Breese Stevens Field on April 16 before taking the pitch for its inaugural home opener on April 27.

Marquette went 7-9-3 in 2018, finishing fourth in the Big East conference. The team is coached by Louis Bennett, who led the Golden Eagles to a Sweet 16 appearance in 2013.

Forward Madison FC’s inaugural season is nearly here! The team will kick off its first-ever game on April 6 in Chattanooga, and open at home on April 27 vs Greenville Triumph SC. Get tickets to see Forward Madison’s inaugural season at: https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/forwardmadisonfc/tickets.

Forward Madison FC will host German Bundesliga side Hertha Berlin in a friendly on May 24 at 7:00 PM at Breese Stevens Field. Forward Madison season ticket holders will have this prestigious match included in their plans, the 17th ticket of the package. The general public will be able to buy tickets starting on March 29 at 10:00 AM.

Get your tickets to Forward Madison vs Hertha Berlin here!

Founded in 1892, Hertha Berlin is the biggest soccer club located in Germany’s capital, Berlin. Hertha, also known as “The Old Lady,” was a founding member of the German Bundesliga and remains the only club in Berlin in Germany’s 1st division. Hertha Berlin has recently enjoyed a run of success with consecutive qualifications for the Europa League.

According to Forward Madison Managing Director Peter Wilt, Madison’s soccer fans will be delighted to have a world-class soccer team coming to town. 

“This is a major international club and we’re thrilled to bring Hertha BSC to Madison,” Wilt said. “I’d like to thank German agency BSports Management and its Managing Director Boris Kalff for their assistance in securing this match. We’re thrilled that we have been able to include tickets to see first division clubs from Mexico (Queretaro), the United States (Minnesota United) and now Germany (Hertha BSC) in our season ticket packages.”  

Season ticket holders will have the opportunity to secure additional tickets Thursday in their private pre-sale before they go on sale to the general public Friday.

“We are excited to come to the capital of Wisconsin and play against Forward Madison FC. Coming to Madison is another highlight on our US Tour and we are really looking forward to it," said Hertha Berlin Managing Director Michael Preetz.

Hertha BSC features team captain and Bosnia and Herzegovina star Vedad Ibišević. Ibišević spent time early in his career with the Chicago Fire Premier in 2004 when Wilt headed up their affiliated MLS team. Among Hertha BSC’s young stars is US U-23 National Team goalkeeper Jonathan Klinsmann, son  of former Germany and US National Team head coach Juergen Klinsmann. Hertha BSC’s current roster includes a number of players who have featured for their national teams including former Chelsea star Salomon Kalou (Ivory Coast), Marvin Plattenhardt (Germany), Niklas Stark (Germany), Peter Pekarik (Slovakia), Per Ciljan Skjelbred (Norway), Marko Grujić (Serbia), Karim Rekik (Netherlands), Vladimír Darida (Czech Republic), Ondrej Duda (Slovakia), Mathew Leckie (Australia), Javairô Dilrosun (Netherlands), Valentino Lazaro (Austria), Rune Jarstein (Norway) and Fabian Lustenberger (Switzerland).

Forward Madison FC’s inaugural season is nearly here! The team will kick off its first-ever game on April 6 in Chattanooga, and open at home on April 27 vs Greenville Triumph SC.

Forward Madison FC will host German Bundesliga side Hertha Berlin in a friendly on May 24 at 7:00 PM at Breese Stevens Field. Forward Madison season ticket holders will have this prestigious match included in their plans, the 17th ticket of the package. The general public will be able to buy tickets starting on March 29 at 10:00 AM.

Get your tickets to Forward Madison vs Hertha Berlin here!

Founded in 1892, Hertha Berlin is the biggest soccer club located in Germany’s capital, Berlin. Hertha, also known as “The Old Lady,” was a founding member of the German Bundesliga and remains the only club in Berlin in Germany’s 1st division. Hertha Berlin has recently enjoyed a run of success with consecutive qualifications for the Europa League.

According to Forward Madison Managing Director Peter Wilt, Madison’s soccer fans will be delighted to have a world-class soccer team coming to town. 

“This is a major international club and we’re thrilled to bring Hertha BSC to Madison,” Wilt said. “I’d like to thank German agency BSports Management and its Managing Director Boris Kalff for their assistance in securing this match. We’re thrilled that we have been able to include tickets to see first division clubs from Mexico (Queretaro), the United States (Minnesota United) and now Germany (Hertha BSC) in our season ticket packages.”  

Season ticket holders will have the opportunity to secure additional tickets Thursday in their private pre-sale before they go on sale to the general public Friday.

“We are excited to come to the capital of Wisconsin and play against Forward Madison FC. Coming to Madison is another highlight on our US Tour and we are really looking forward to it,” said Hertha Berlin Managing Director Michael Preetz.

Hertha BSC features team captain and Bosnia and Herzegovina star Vedad Ibišević. Ibišević spent time early in his career with the Chicago Fire Premier in 2004 when Wilt headed up their affiliated MLS team. Among Hertha BSC’s young stars is US U-23 National Team goalkeeper Jonathan Klinsmann, son  of former Germany and US National Team head coach Juergen Klinsmann. Hertha BSC’s current roster includes a number of players who have featured for their national teams including former Chelsea star Salomon Kalou (Ivory Coast), Marvin Plattenhardt (Germany), Niklas Stark (Germany), Peter Pekarik (Slovakia), Per Ciljan Skjelbred (Norway), Marko Grujić (Serbia), Karim Rekik (Netherlands), Vladimír Darida (Czech Republic), Ondrej Duda (Slovakia), Mathew Leckie (Australia), Javairô Dilrosun (Netherlands), Valentino Lazaro (Austria), Rune Jarstein (Norway) and Fabian Lustenberger (Switzerland).

Forward Madison FC’s inaugural season is nearly here! The team will kick off its first-ever game on April 6 in Chattanooga, and open at home on April 27 vs Greenville Triumph SC.

By now, Shaun Russell has gotten used to the feeling of having doors close on him. The 25-year-old defender, who joined Forward Madison FC’s inaugural roster Monday, didn’t take an easy route on his way to becoming a professional soccer player. With each step along the way, Russell has faced pitfalls that could have deterred him for good. Pitfalls that made him into the player he is today.

By now, Shaun Russell has gotten used to the feeling of having doors close on him. The 25-year-old defender, who joined Forward Madison FC’s inaugural roster Monday, didn’t take an easy route on his way to becoming a professional soccer player. With each step along the way, Russell has faced pitfalls that could have deterred him for good. Pitfalls that made him into the player he is today.

Unlike many professional soccer players, who are practically born with a ball at their feet, Shaun Russell didn’t come from a soccer family, nor did he grow up in a soccer culture. At home in Chesapeake, Va., soccer was without a doubt a lesser-known sport. His parents hadn’t grown up playing the game, and so as the first person in his family to take up soccer, Russell often had to carve out a path on his own.

“As I got older, most kids would be playing basketball and football, soccer was the thing in my family that no one knew about,” he said. “My dad played basketball, my mom ran track, so I really started to take pride, as I got older, in playing in the top teams for my age group.”

As the years went on, Russell continued to show signs of progress. First he had just wanted to learn the sport; soon he dreamed of becoming a professional. In 2011, Russell started school at Saint Francis University in Loretto, Pa. It was the next step towards his dream, but being at a small Division I school meant he had another obstacle to overcome if he was going to stand out from the pack.

“Being Saint Francis University, most people don’t know (it), like ‘where’s that school at?’” he said. “Going to that school, a small D1 school, we made a name for ourselves in the mountains of Pennsylvania.”

Only a handful of Saint Francis players have entered the pro ranks, and although it wasn’t an impossible task, Russell was facing long odds. Still, he ended up playing well for the Red Flash, starting for four years as the team’s left back, and so his pro dream continued to grow.

“I knew once I got to college, I knew I wanted to go pro after college, no matter whatever I did, whatever it took to do it,” Russell said. “Training, going to open trials, I knew this is what I wanted to do. I’m good enough and I can play with the best out there.”

After graduating in 2015, Russell embarked on the next stage of his journey. Finding a professional contract, though, wasn’t easy. For a while, he played in the semi-professional National Premier Soccer League, featuring for Virginia Beach City FC and New York Cosmos B.

In the meantime, Russell went to open tryouts and trials across the country, hoping to find a team that would take a chance on him. Time and time again, he would come close, but no one seemed to be willing to make an offer. Again and again, the door would shut.

“I would always get to the final day of the tryout and it just wouldn’t work out,” Russell said. “Some coaches, they like what they see from me, but have always taken the more experienced player over me. They (told me), ‘we like you,’ and things like that, but for me, it’s like, ‘if you like me, why not give me a chance?’

“I’ve gone through a lot of adversity playing this sport, a lot of doors that have closed in my face. But I love the game so much that I did whatever it took to get to playing at the professional level.”

Unlike many professional soccer players, who are practically born with a ball at their feet, Shaun Russell didn’t come from a soccer family, nor did he grow up in a soccer culture. At home in Chesapeake, Va., soccer was without a doubt a lesser-known sport. His parents hadn’t grown up playing the game, and so as the first person in his family to take up soccer, Russell often had to carve out a path on his own.

“As I got older, most kids would be playing basketball and football, soccer was the thing in my family that no one knew about,” he said. “My dad played basketball, my mom ran track, so I really started to take pride, as I got older, in playing in the top teams for my age group.”

As the years went on, Russell continued to show signs of progress. First he had just wanted to learn the sport; soon he dreamed of becoming a professional. In 2011, Russell started school at Saint Francis University in Loretto, Pa. It was the next step towards his dream, but being at a small Division I school meant he had another obstacle to overcome if he was going to stand out from the pack.

“Being Saint Francis University, most people don’t know (it), like ‘where’s that school at?’” he said. “Going to that school, a small D1 school, we made a name for ourselves in the mountains of Pennsylvania.”

Only a handful of Saint Francis players have entered the pro ranks, and although it wasn’t an impossible task, Russell was facing long odds. Still, he ended up playing well for the Red Flash, starting for four years as the team’s left back, and so his pro dream continued to grow.

“I knew once I got to college, I knew I wanted to go pro after college, no matter whatever I did, whatever it took to do it,” Russell said. “Training, going to open trials, I knew this is what I wanted to do. I’m good enough and I can play with the best out there.”

After graduating in 2015, Russell embarked on the next stage of his journey. Finding a professional contract, though, wasn’t easy. For a while, he played in the semi-professional National Premier Soccer League, featuring for Virginia Beach City FC and New York Cosmos B.

In the meantime, Russell went to open tryouts and trials across the country, hoping to find a team that would take a chance on him. Time and time again, he would come close, but no one seemed to be willing to make an offer. Again and again, the door would shut.

“I would always get to the final day of the tryout and it just wouldn’t work out,” Russell said. “Some coaches, they like what they see from me, but have always taken the more experienced player over me. They (told me), ‘we like you,’ and things like that, but for me, it’s like, ‘if you like me, why not give me a chance?’

“I’ve gone through a lot of adversity playing this sport, a lot of doors that have closed in my face. But I love the game so much that I did whatever it took to get to playing at the professional level.”

In 2018, Russell finally found his opportunity. It came, in predictable fashion, because he had refused to give up in the face of hardship.

During the offseason, he had gone on trial with the Richmond Kickers of the USL Championship. The team had invited him to preseason camp, but with the regular season just around the corner, the club decided to sign another player in his position instead, and it seemed like Russell’s chance had gone.

“It was like, ‘back to the drawing board,’” he said.

Instead of turning away, though, Russell came back to Richmond’s coaching staff with an offer: He just wanted to train with the team. According to Russell, he thought that if he could just spend some time playing with a professional club, he could raise his game to the level where a contract would be possible in the future.

“Being at home, by yourself, when all my friends that I grew up playing with are playing professional soccer, it’s hard to train by yourself consistently every day,” he said. “All I wanted to do was just be in that professional environment, and that’s what I did.”

The coaches responded positively, and so for six months, Russell drove two hours each way from Chesapeake to Richmond for training.

“I love the game so much, it wasn’t about the money. This is what I love, I’ve been playing the sport since I was four. This is the passion I have for the game,” he said.

Finally, near the end of the year, it all worked out. Richmond signed Russell in mid-September, with just weeks left to play in the USL Championship season. He made his debut on Sept. 26 with a start against league-leading FC Cincinnati.

“When I walked into the locker room, I saw my name on the board, I was like, ‘this is it,’” Russell said. “It was a great opportunity. I really enjoyed it.”

In 2018, Russell finally found his opportunity. It came, in predictable fashion, because he had refused to give up in the face of hardship.

During the offseason, he had gone on trial with the Richmond Kickers of the USL Championship. The team had invited him to preseason camp, but with the regular season just around the corner, the club decided to sign another player in his position instead, and it seemed like Russell’s chance had gone.

“It was like, ‘back to the drawing board,’” he said.

Instead of turning away, though, Russell came back to Richmond’s coaching staff with an offer: He just wanted to train with the team. According to Russell, he thought that if he could just spend some time playing with a professional club, he could raise his game to the level where a contract would be possible in the future.

“Being at home, by yourself, when all my friends that I grew up playing with are playing professional soccer, it’s hard to train by yourself consistently every day,” he said. “All I wanted to do was just be in that professional environment, and that’s what I did.”

The coaches responded positively, and so for six months, Russell drove two hours each way from Chesapeake to Richmond for training.

“I love the game so much, it wasn’t about the money. This is what I love, I’ve been playing the sport since I was four. This is the passion I have for the game,” he said.

Finally, near the end of the year, it all worked out. Richmond signed Russell in mid-September, with just weeks left to play in the USL Championship season. He made his debut on Sept. 26 with a start against league-leading FC Cincinnati.

“When I walked into the locker room, I saw my name on the board, I was like, ‘this is it,’” Russell said. “It was a great opportunity. I really enjoyed it.”

Russell had been delighted to get an opportunity in his home state, but when Richmond’s season finished, it was time to pack his bags again. He’d worked for months to finally get the short-term contract, but now it was just a notch on his belt, a line on his résumé, and Russell would have to go back to square one to find a new team. Another difficulty to be sure, but Russell had overcome more, so why couldn’t he again?

He started out this year in training at ONYX Elite, a camp run by former U.S. national team defender Oguchi Onyewu. While there, he encountered an unexpected challenge when Onyewu told him he should try switching from the left side of defense to being a center back.

“It took a lot out of me, because I’ve been playing left back all my life,” Russell said.

Undeterred, he adapted to the new role. With little more than a week of experience in his new position, Russell earned an invite to preseason camp with Indy Eleven of the USL Championship. He played with Indy until close to the start of their season, but in the end, they decided not to offer him a contract.

For some players, that would have been a debilitating blow. But Russell had had enough of doors closing on him, and this time, he had a plan to make one open.

“It was one of those things, like, maybe it wasn’t meant to be, but I’ve overcome things like that,” Russell said. He got in touch with his former Richmond teammate, Neil Hlavaty, who had become the assistant coach for Forward Madison in early January. Russell had been talking to Hlavaty throughout his time with Indy Eleven, and got a chance to meet up with his old friend in person after FMFC’s preseason win over Indy on Feb. 22.

In a moment where everything could have fallen apart, Russell rebounded. On Monday, he officially became the 19th-ever member of Forward Madison FC. Now, for the first time, he has a full professional season ahead of him to look forward to.

“This isn’t new to me, none of that is new to me,” Russell said. “Once Indy Eleven decided not to continue with me, Madison opened up right away and I was ready to get to work, I was ready to get started.”

The door had nearly closed again on Russell. This time, he didn’t let it happen.

“I finally got in the door,” he said. “Now that I’ve got my foot in the door, I’m going to do whatever it takes to keep that door open.”

Russell had been delighted to get an opportunity in his home state, but when Richmond’s season finished, it was time to pack his bags again. He’d worked for months to finally get the short-term contract, but now it was just a notch on his belt, a line on his résumé, and Russell would have to go back to square one to find a new team. Another difficulty to be sure, but Russell had overcome more, so why couldn’t he again?

He started out this year in training at ONYX Elite, a camp run by former U.S. national team defender Oguchi Onyewu. While there, he encountered an unexpected challenge when Onyewu told him he should try switching from the left side of defense to being a center back.

“It took a lot out of me, because I’ve been playing left back all my life,” Russell said.

Undeterred, he adapted to the new role. With little more than a week of experience in his new position, Russell earned an invite to preseason camp with Indy Eleven of the USL Championship. He played with Indy until close to the start of their season, but in the end, they decided not to offer him a contract.

For some players, that would have been a debilitating blow. But Russell had had enough of doors closing on him, and this time, he had a plan to make one open.

“It was one of those things, like, maybe it wasn’t meant to be, but I’ve overcome things like that,” Russell said. He got in touch with his former Richmond teammate, Neil Hlavaty, who had become the assistant coach for Forward Madison in early January. Russell had been talking to Hlavaty throughout his time with Indy Eleven, and got a chance to meet up with his old friend in person after FMFC’s preseason win over Indy on Feb. 22.

In a moment where everything could have fallen apart, Russell rebounded. On Monday, he officially became the 19th-ever member of Forward Madison FC. Now, for the first time, he has a full professional season ahead of him to look forward to.

“This isn’t new to me, none of that is new to me,” Russell said. “Once Indy Eleven decided not to continue with me, Madison opened up right away and I was ready to get to work, I was ready to get started.”

The door had nearly closed again on Russell. This time, he didn’t let it happen.

“I finally got in the door,” he said. “Now that I’ve got my foot in the door, I’m going to do whatever it takes to keep that door open.”

Shaun’s signing will be confirmed pending league and federation approval. Follow Shaun on Instagram and Twitter at @big_shaun_15.

Forward Madison FC’s inaugural season is nearly here! The team will kick off its first-ever game on April 6 at Chattanooga Red Wolves, and open at home on April 27 vs Greenville Triumph SC. Get tickets to see Shaun and the rest of the team in Forward Madison’s inaugural season at: https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/forwardmadisonfc/tickets.

Shaun’s signing will be confirmed pending league and federation approval. Follow Shaun on Instagram and Twitter at @big_shaun_15.

Forward Madison FC’s inaugural season is nearly here! The team will kick off its first-ever game on April 6 at Chattanooga Red Wolves, and open at home on April 27 vs Greenville Triumph SC. Get tickets to see Shaun and the rest of the team in Forward Madison’s inaugural season at: https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/forwardmadisonfc/tickets.

Forward Madison FC has signed 25-year-old defender Shaun Russell to its inaugural roster, the club announced Monday. Russell signed his first pro contract last year, joining the Richmond Kickers late in the USL Championship season, and will reunite this season with then-teammate Neil Hlavaty, who is now FMFC’s assistant coach.

“It feels great to be here,” Russell said. “It’s the first season, a new team, and I’ve been following everything since they’ve been a start-up, so I’m really happy to sign. I worked with Neil in Richmond before, so I’ve known him for the past year, and I’ve heard a lot about (FMFC head coach) Daryl Shore, I’m looking forward to working with him.”

According to Shore, Russell will feature primarily as a central defender, but can slot in on the left side as well.

“Shaun is an athletic, left-footed center back who will add needed depth to our back line,” Shore said. “Shaun can also play left back, so it will be good to have another left-footed player who can play along the back line in a few different positions.”

Throughout his career, Russell has learned to overcome challenges. Before signing with Richmond, he trained for six months with the team, driving two hours each way from his home in Chesapeake, Va. for practices. He spent most of this offseason on trial with Indy Eleven of the USL Championship, but was not offered a contract.

“It was one of those things, like, maybe it wasn’t meant to be, but I’ve overcome things like that,” Russell said. “Once Indy Eleven decided not to continue with me, Madison opened up right away and I was ready to get to work, I was ready to get started.”

Shaun’s signing will be confirmed pending league and federation approval. Follow Shaun on Instagram and Twitter at @big_shaun_15.

Forward Madison FC’s inaugural season is nearly here! The team will kick off its first-ever game on April 6 at Chattanooga Red Wolves, and open at home on April 27 vs Greenville Triumph SC. Get tickets to see Shaun and the rest of the team in Forward Madison’s inaugural season at: https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/forwardmadisonfc/tickets.

Forward Madison FC has signed 25-year-old defender Shaun Russell to its inaugural roster, the club announced Monday. Russell signed his first pro contract last year, joining the Richmond Kickers late in the USL Championship season, and will reunite this season with then-teammate Neil Hlavaty, who is now FMFC’s assistant coach.

“It feels great to be here,” Russell said. “It’s the first season, a new team, and I’ve been following everything since they’ve been a start-up, so I’m really happy to sign. I worked with Neil in Richmond before, so I’ve known him for the past year, and I’ve heard a lot about (FMFC head coach) Daryl Shore, I’m looking forward to working with him.”

According to Shore, Russell will feature primarily as a central defender, but can slot in on the left side as well.

“Shaun is an athletic, left-footed center back who will add needed depth to our back line,” Shore said. “Shaun can also play left back, so it will be good to have another left-footed player who can play along the back line in a few different positions.”

Throughout his career, Russell has learned to overcome challenges. Before signing with Richmond, he trained for six months with the team, driving two hours each way from his home in Chesapeake, Va. for practices. He spent most of this offseason on trial with Indy Eleven of the USL Championship, but was not offered a contract.

“It was one of those things, like, maybe it wasn’t meant to be, but I’ve overcome things like that,” Russell said. “Once Indy Eleven decided not to continue with me, Madison opened up right away and I was ready to get to work, I was ready to get started.”

Shaun’s signing will be confirmed pending league and federation approval. Follow Shaun on Instagram and Twitter at @big_shaun_15.

Forward Madison FC’s inaugural season is nearly here! The team will kick off its first-ever game on April 6 at Chattanooga Red Wolves, and open at home on April 27 vs Greenville Triumph SC. Get tickets to see Shaun and the rest of the team in Forward Madison’s inaugural season at: https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/forwardmadisonfc/tickets.

The goals came flying in for Forward Madison FC Friday night, as the Flaminigos beat UW-Parkside 7-1 at Madison College. Two Minnesota United players who have been training with FMFC, Mason Toye and Wyatt Omsberg, both scored twice to lead the rout.

The victory marks Forward Madison's second preseason win, following a 1-0 result against USL Championship team Indy Eleven in February. The game also served as a homecoming for FMFC midfielder Vital Nizigiyimana, who previously played for Madison College.

The match started off slowly, with neither side coming close to gaining the upper hand. In the 17th minute, though, Jeff Michaud's corner found midfielder Eric Leonard, who volleyed the ball at goal. A slight deflection guided it into the path of Omsberg, who thrust out his chest to push the ball home.

The goals came flying in for Forward Madison FC Friday night, as the Flaminigos beat UW-Parkside 7-1 at Madison College. Two Minnesota United players who have been training with FMFC, Mason Toye and Wyatt Omsberg, both scored twice to lead the rout.

The victory marks Forward Madison’s second preseason win, following a 1-0 result against USL Championship team Indy Eleven in February. The game also served as a homecoming for FMFC midfielder Vital Nizigiyimana, who previously played for Madison College.

The match started off slowly, with neither side coming close to gaining the upper hand. In the 17th minute, though, Jeff Michaud’s corner found midfielder Eric Leonard, who volleyed the ball at goal. A slight deflection guided it into the path of Omsberg, who thrust out his chest to push the ball home.

Forward Madison struck again less than 10 minutes later through Toye, but Parkside took advantage of a lapse in concentration to pull one back in the 28th minute. At the 38 minute mark, though, the Flamingos restored their two-goal advantage, as Leonard provided arguably the highlight of the game. Following a weak clearance to the edge of the 18-yard box, the defensive midfielder sprinted forward and hammered a line drive past the fingertips of Parkside's diving goalkeeper.

Forward Madison struck again less than 10 minutes later through Toye, but Parkside took advantage of a lapse in concentration to pull one back in the 28th minute. At the 38 minute mark, though, the Flamingos restored their two-goal advantage, as Leonard provided arguably the highlight of the game. Following a weak clearance to the edge of the 18-yard box, the defensive midfielder sprinted forward and hammered a line drive past the fingertips of Parkside’s diving goalkeeper.

FMFC held a comfortable 3-1 lead at halftime, but didn't slow down in the second period. Just minutes after play resumed, Omsberg got his second, following up on the rebound after his initial headed attempt was pushed back by the goalkeeper.

FMFC held a comfortable 3-1 lead at halftime, but didn’t slow down in the second period. Just minutes after play resumed, Omsberg got his second, following up on the rebound after his initial headed attempt was pushed back by the goalkeeper.

At the 63rd minute, Mason Toye tucked home his second goal of the night, knocking in from close range. Toye put on a Mingo of the Match performance for Madison, creating danger nearly every time he touched the ball.

Finally, FMFC iced its cake in the final few minutes of the game with two more goals right at the end. First, midfielder Brandon Eaton sent a rocket across the turf from outside of the 18-yard box to make it 6-1. Several minutes later, forward Brian Bement headed in after Nizigiyimana – who starred for Madison College on the same pitch he played on Friday night – saw his shot hit the bar.

Forward Madison will continue its preseason schedule next week, traveling up to the Twin Cities for training with Minnesota United. The team's next preseason match will take place on Saturday, March 30, away to Marquette University.

Forward Madison FC Lineup: Brian Sylvestre; Christian "Pato" Díaz, Wyatt Omsberg (goals 17', 50'), Connor Tobin, Carter Manley; Eric Leonard (goal 38'), Jeff Michaud, J.C. Banks; Paulo Jr., Don Smart, Mason Toye (goals 25', 63')

Substitutes used: Jiro Barriga Toyama, Zaire Bartley, Brian Bement (goal 90'), Brandon Eaton (goal 87'), Vital Nizigiyimana, Josiel Núñez, Carl Schneider, Trialist W. Milk

UW-Parkside Lineup: Information unavailable

Forward Madison FC’s inaugural season is nearly here! The team will kick off its first-ever game on April 6 in Chattanooga, and open at home on April 27 vs Greenville Triumph SC. Get tickets to see Forward Madison’s inaugural season at: https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/forwardmadisonfc/tickets.

At the 63rd minute, Mason Toye tucked home his second goal of the night, knocking in from close range. Toye put on a Mingo of the Match performance for Madison, creating danger nearly every time he touched the ball.

Finally, FMFC iced its cake in the final few minutes of the game with two more goals right at the end. First, midfielder Brandon Eaton sent a rocket across the turf from outside of the 18-yard box to make it 6-1. Several minutes later, forward Brian Bement headed in after Nizigiyimana – who starred for Madison College on the same pitch he played on Friday night – saw his shot hit the bar.

Forward Madison will continue its preseason schedule next week, traveling up to the Twin Cities for training with Minnesota United. The team’s next preseason match will take place on Saturday, March 30, away to Marquette University.

Forward Madison FC Lineup: Brian Sylvestre; Christian “Pato” Díaz, Wyatt Omsberg (goals 17′, 50′), Connor Tobin, Carter Manley; Eric Leonard (goal 38′), Jeff Michaud, J.C. Banks; Paulo Jr., Don Smart, Mason Toye (goals 25′, 63′)

Substitutes used: Jiro Barriga Toyama, Zaire Bartley, Brian Bement (goal 90′), Brandon Eaton (goal 87′), Vital Nizigiyimana, Josiel Núñez, Carl Schneider, Trialist W. Milk

UW-Parkside Lineup: Information unavailable

Forward Madison FC’s inaugural season is nearly here! The team will kick off its first-ever game on April 6 in Chattanooga, and open at home on April 27 vs Greenville Triumph SC. Get tickets to see Forward Madison’s inaugural season at: https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/forwardmadisonfc/tickets.

Forward Madison FC is giving away plastic flamingos for a year and one free season ticket to celebrate its inaugural season, the club announced Thursday. Anyone is eligible to enter the contest, which runs through March 20.

What does "Flamingos for a Year" mean? It’s exactly what it sounds like. The contest winner will receive an FMFC-branded plastic pink flamingo delivered to their door once every week for a calendar year. The flamingo might be delivered by a member of our front office staff… It could even come from a Forward Madison FC player or coach – who knows?

One flamingo every week, 52 flamingos in total at one lucky winner’s doorstep – now that's what we call going #FullMingo. Oh, and we're also throwing in a FREE Forward Madison FC Sideline season ticket to boot ($476 value). When we said "Flamingos for a Year," we weren't messing around.

Fans who want to enter the contest need only fill out the entry form below for the club and share it on their social media. As part of the deal, We’re also putting 1,008 FMFC-themed flamingos on sale in one bulk package to commemorate the 1,008 plastic pink flamingos that pranksters Leon Varjian and Jim Mallon put on Bascom Hill in 1979.

Forward Madison FC’s inaugural season is nearly here! The team will kick off its first-ever game on April 6 in Chattanooga, and open at home on April 27 vs Greenville Triumph SC. Get tickets to see Forward Madison’s inaugural season at: https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/forwardmadisonfc/tickets.

Forward Madison FC is giving away plastic flamingos for a year and one free season ticket to celebrate its inaugural season, the club announced Thursday. Anyone is eligible to enter the contest, which runs through March 20.

What does “Flamingos for a Year” mean? It’s exactly what it sounds like. The contest winner will receive an FMFC-branded plastic pink flamingo delivered to their door once every week for a calendar year. The flamingo might be delivered by a member of our front office staff… It could even come from a Forward Madison FC player or coach – who knows?

One flamingo every week, 52 flamingos in total at one lucky winner’s doorstep – now that’s what we call going #FullMingo. Oh, and we’re also throwing in a FREE Forward Madison FC Sideline season ticket to boot ($476 value). When we said “Flamingos for a Year,” we weren’t messing around.

Fans who want to enter the contest need only fill out the entry form below for the club and share it on their social media. As part of the deal, We’re also putting 1,008 FMFC-themed flamingos on sale in one bulk package to commemorate the 1,008 plastic pink flamingos that pranksters Leon Varjian and Jim Mallon put on Bascom Hill in 1979.

Forward Madison FC’s inaugural season is nearly here! The team will kick off its first-ever game on April 6 in Chattanooga, and open at home on April 27 vs Greenville Triumph SC. Get tickets to see Forward Madison’s inaugural season at: https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/forwardmadisonfc/tickets.