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MADISON, WI, December 7, 2018 — Forward Madison FC announced an affiliation agreement Friday with Major League Soccer (MLS) club Minnesota United FC that will allow for Minnesota to loan players to Madison and set up the potential for an exhibition game between the teams.

Per the one-year partnership, Madison will have the ability to receive several players on loan from Minnesota United. The agreement also allows for shared scouting networks and technical resources between the two clubs, opportunities for closed-door scrimmages, and a possible exhibition match pending the release of the 2019 MLS schedule.

"Having this opportunity to work with Minnesota both on and off of the field is a huge benefit for our organization,” said Forward Madison Head Coach Daryl Shore. “I’m really looking forward to working with [Minnesota United Head Coach] Adrian Heath and his technical staff as we look to develop players as well as be in the hunt to win trophies.”

Minnesota United, formed in 2010 as NSC Minnesota Stars, played in the second division of American soccer before joining Major League Soccer in 2016. The club will open its new home stadium, Allianz Field, in St. Paul, Minn. this year.

"This will be a mutually beneficial partnership that will help Forward Madison's launch phase tremendously on and off the field,” said Peter Wilt, Managing Director of Forward Madison. “I'm excited to work again with [Minnesota United Sporting Director] Manny Lagos and [Minnesota United Director of Player Personnel] Amos Magee. They are sharp soccer executives and have already assisted us greatly."

According to Lagos, Minnesota will likely use the agreement to loan talented prospects and starters coming back from injury to Forward Madison.

“We are excited to partner with a club like Madison, a club that has great ambition to build the sport of soccer,” Lagos said. “The proximity of our clubs allows us to share scouting and sporting resources, we can get our younger players meaningful minutes to develop and help players returning from injury. Madison has a staff that we know well and who supports our goals of growing soccer throughout our entire region.”

Forward Madison FC was launched as Madison’s first-ever professional soccer on May 17, 2018. The club will play at historic Breese Stevens Field in USL League One beginning with the 2019 season. ​​​​​​Buy tickets for Forward Madison's inaugural season at https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/forwardmadisonfc/tickets.

MADISON, WI, December 7, 2018 — Forward Madison FC announced an affiliation agreement Friday with Major League Soccer (MLS) club Minnesota United FC that will allow for Minnesota to loan players to Madison and set up the potential for an exhibition game between the teams.

Per the one-year partnership, Madison will have the ability to receive several players on loan from Minnesota United. The agreement also allows for shared scouting networks and technical resources between the two clubs, opportunities for closed-door scrimmages, and a possible exhibition match pending the release of the 2019 MLS schedule.

“Having this opportunity to work with Minnesota both on and off of the field is a huge benefit for our organization,” said Forward Madison Head Coach Daryl Shore. “I’m really looking forward to working with [Minnesota United Head Coach] Adrian Heath and his technical staff as we look to develop players as well as be in the hunt to win trophies.”

Minnesota United, formed in 2010 as NSC Minnesota Stars, played in the second division of American soccer before joining Major League Soccer in 2016. The club will open its new home stadium, Allianz Field, in St. Paul, Minn. this year.

“This will be a mutually beneficial partnership that will help Forward Madison’s launch phase tremendously on and off the field,” said Peter Wilt, Managing Director of Forward Madison. “I’m excited to work again with [Minnesota United Sporting Director] Manny Lagos and [Minnesota United Director of Player Personnel] Amos Magee. They are sharp soccer executives and have already assisted us greatly.”

According to Lagos, Minnesota will likely use the agreement to loan talented prospects and starters coming back from injury to Forward Madison.

“We are excited to partner with a club like Madison, a club that has great ambition to build the sport of soccer,” Lagos said. “The proximity of our clubs allows us to share scouting and sporting resources, we can get our younger players meaningful minutes to develop and help players returning from injury. Madison has a staff that we know well and who supports our goals of growing soccer throughout our entire region.”

Forward Madison FC was launched as Madison’s first-ever professional soccer on May 17, 2018. The club will play at historic Breese Stevens Field in USL League One beginning with the 2019 season. â€‹â€‹â€‹â€‹â€‹â€‹Buy tickets for Forward Madison’s inaugural season at https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/forwardmadisonfc/tickets.

It’s the Copa Centroamericana, January 2017. Josiel Núñez is starting for Panama on the left side of midfield in an early group stage match against Nicaragua. Having watched from the bench two days previously as Panama drew 0-0 with Belize, Núñez, only 23, is ready to seize his moment.

Panama comes out of the gates firing. Up 1-0 already in the 12th minute, Núñez traps a pass at the top of the 18-yard box. But he takes a bad touch – a fatal bit of miscontrol – and it looks like the chance has gone. Núñez, though, keeps going. He cuts back, and the two defenders in front of him swivel their heads in unison. Trying to follow Núñez, one of them loses his footing, and suddenly the chance is on again. A foot tap to the right, then BANG! Núñez unleashes a line drive into the corner – his first-ever goal for Panama.

It’s the Copa Centroamericana, January 2017. Josiel Núñez is starting for Panama on the left side of midfield in an early group stage match against Nicaragua. Having watched from the bench two days previously as Panama drew 0-0 with Belize, Núñez, only 23, is ready to seize his moment.

Panama comes out of the gates firing. Up 1-0 already in the 12th minute, Núñez traps a pass at the top of the 18-yard box. But he takes a bad touch – a fatal bit of miscontrol – and it looks like the chance has gone. Núñez, though, keeps going. He cuts back, and the two defenders in front of him swivel their heads in unison. Trying to follow Núñez, one of them loses his footing, and suddenly the chance is on again. A foot tap to the right, then BANG! Núñez unleashes a line drive into the corner – his first-ever goal for Panama.

Núñez, now 25, has played 14 times for the Panamanian national team, although his strike against Nicaragua last year remains his only goal. Later in 2017, Núñez was named to Panama’s CONCACAF Gold Cup roster, which gave him the opportunity to show off his skills against the best countries in North and Central America. On July 8 in Nashville, Panama trusted Núñez to come on as a substitute as Panama preserved a 1-1 draw against the United States.

Núñez most recently played for Panama in a friendly on April 18, but he was not selected to the team’s 23-man World Cup roster. On the club side, he last featured for C.D. Árabe Unido and C.D. Universitario in the Panamanian first division, where he played in the CONCACAF Champions League against the best clubs in North and Central America.

Núñez, now 25, has played 14 times for the Panamanian national team, although his strike against Nicaragua last year remains his only goal. Later in 2017, Núñez was named to Panama’s CONCACAF Gold Cup roster, which gave him the opportunity to show off his skills against the best countries in North and Central America. On July 8 in Nashville, Panama trusted Núñez to come on as a substitute as Panama preserved a 1-1 draw against the United States.

Núñez most recently played for Panama in a friendly on April 18, but he was not selected to the team’s 23-man World Cup roster. On the club side, he last featured for C.D. Árabe Unido and C.D. Universitario in the Panamanian first division, where he played in the CONCACAF Champions League against the best clubs in North and Central America.

Josiel Núñez joins Forward Madison FC for its inaugural USL League One season in 2019. Buy tickets to watch Josiel and Forward Madison here. Núñez's signing will be confirmed pending league and federation approval.

Josiel Núñez joins Forward Madison FC for its inaugural USL League One season in 2019. Buy tickets to watch Josiel and Forward Madison here. Núñez’s signing will be confirmed pending league and federation approval.

MADISON, WI, December 6, 2018 — Forward Madison FC has signed Panamanian midfielder Josiel Núñez to its squad for its inaugural season. Núñez has played for the Panama men’s national team 14 times, with his most recent appearance coming in April 2018. He played against the United States men’s national team in the opening match of the 2017 CONCACAF Gold Cup, which finished in a 1-1 draw.

The 25-year-old attacking midfielder joins the team on a loan deal from Panamanian club CD Universitario.

Forward Madison Head Coach Daryl Shore said Núñez’s signing is a coup for the club.

“For us to get a player who has been capped with his national team like Josiel has is a testament to what our entire organization is trying to achieve both on and off of the field,” Shore said. “Josiel’s experience playing for Panama will bring a tremendous amount of quality to our team.”

Núñez plays as an attacking midfielder who can create on his own, but specializes in linking up play with his teammates during the buildup to goals. He’s scored once for Panama, a curling drive against Nicaragua in the 2017 Copa Centroamericana.

“We are excited to add Josiel to our team,” Shore said. “I think our fans are going to love having a player of his pedigree representing Madison on the field.”

Núñez’s signing will be confirmed pending league and federation approval. Buy tickets to watch Josiel and Forward Madison FC's inaugural 2019 season at https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/forwardmadisonfc/tickets.

MADISON, WI, December 6, 2018 — Forward Madison FC has signed Panamanian midfielder Josiel Núñez to its squad for its inaugural season. Núñez has played for the Panama men’s national team 14 times, with his most recent appearance coming in April 2018. He played against the United States men’s national team in the opening match of the 2017 CONCACAF Gold Cup, which finished in a 1-1 draw.

The 25-year-old attacking midfielder joins the team on a loan deal from Panamanian club CD Universitario.

Forward Madison Head Coach Daryl Shore said Núñez’s signing is a coup for the club.

“For us to get a player who has been capped with his national team like Josiel has is a testament to what our entire organization is trying to achieve both on and off of the field,” Shore said. “Josiel’s experience playing for Panama will bring a tremendous amount of quality to our team.”

Núñez plays as an attacking midfielder who can create on his own, but specializes in linking up play with his teammates during the buildup to goals. He’s scored once for Panama, a curling drive against Nicaragua in the 2017 Copa Centroamericana.

“We are excited to add Josiel to our team,” Shore said. “I think our fans are going to love having a player of his pedigree representing Madison on the field.”

Núñez’s signing will be confirmed pending league and federation approval. Buy tickets to watch Josiel and Forward Madison FC’s inaugural 2019 season at https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/forwardmadisonfc/tickets.

Did you miss our Open House and Seat Selection Day at Breese Stevens Field this past Saturday? Don't worry! There's one more opportunity to view the pitch and hand pick your season ticket for the inaugural 2019 season this Thursday, December 6th from 4pm-7pm!

Fans are welcome to meet front office staff, learn about the new team, place deposits for season tickets and choose a seat. Current season ticket holders are encouraged to make a request for desired seat allocation.

Complimentary hot chocolate will be available.

Please come to Gate 4 at Breese Stevens Field for the event. If you have further questions about Forward Madison FC season tickets or the seat selection process, please email Elisabeth: elisabeth@https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/forwardmadisonfc.

Did you miss our Open House and Seat Selection Day at Breese Stevens Field this past Saturday? Don’t worry! There’s one more opportunity to view the pitch and hand pick your season ticket for the inaugural 2019 season this Thursday, December 6th from 4pm-7pm!

Fans are welcome to meet front office staff, learn about the new team, place deposits for season tickets and choose a seat. Current season ticket holders are encouraged to make a request for desired seat allocation.

Complimentary hot chocolate will be available.

Please come to Gate 4 at Breese Stevens Field for the event. If you have further questions about Forward Madison FC season tickets or the seat selection process, please email Elisabeth: elisabeth@https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/forwardmadisonfc.

This Tuesday, we hopped on Facebook to give away a Forward Madison FC prize pack. The condition of entry? Tell us something you love about Madison. Your responses blew us away, and we've picked some of our favorite replies:

"I love Madison's diverse outdoor activities and events! Looking forward to adding Forward Madison games to that list!" – Katie H.

"I love Madison's variety! People, things to do, and more!" – Chris S.

"My favorite things about Madison are Bucky Badger, boating on the lakes and that we now have a soccer team!!!" – Carmen S.B.

"The Badgers and now a pro soccer team!" – Audrey P.

"I love that there's always fun food, drink, and events in Madison!" -Mallory M.

"The city's positive, forward thinking, energy. There is always something to do and it's the BEST place to raise a family!" – Craig H.

"There’s always something fun to do, from sports to arts to entertainment, you’ll never be bored in Madison!!! ❤️" – Aly S.

"I love that Madison finally has a soccer team. #ForwardMadison" -Trevor D.

"I love that the Plastic Pink Flamingo is our official bird!" – Kaitlyn W.

"I was on a quest to find the inaugural scarf two weeks ago in Madison. It culminated with me speaking to many excited people about THEIR new club. I love that locals immediately talked about the new club as if it were their own." -Marsha P.

"The Terrace is one of my favorite places in the world! Love to spend summer days there." -Alex T.

"I love that there is so much to do in Madison. Now we can add pro soccer to the list!" -Brock S.

"All the awesome outdoor adventures! Up the ‘Go’s!" -Hannah L.

"Every culture is recognized and embraced. The people are warm and welcoming, and there is never the complaint of “there’s nothing to do” especially with soccer on the way." -Scott C.

"I like Madison because it's a very diverse town and how the community comes together. The support for the Pro Soccer team is a good example." -Leo R.

"I love the diversity and cultures present in Madison. I appreciate there is always something to do in this great city for whatever mood I’m in." -PJ Y.

"I love Madison because it is so diverse and including. Everyone is welcome here, and it makes it a great place to raise a family of soccer playing / loving / watching kids." -Gina A.R.

"I love Madison because there's always something to do, and I never have to look very far to find something that I'll enjoy!" -Hannah B.

"I love how hard Madison has been working to woo me lately! You want a new concert venue? Here ya go! Oh, you want a soccer team too? We're on it! The city is growing into even more of a cultural hub and I can't get enough!" -Mitch C.

"I loved growing up here and that I now get to raise my children here also!" -Tricia C.

"I love the lakes, the bike paths, the people, the everything!!!" -Shane D.

"Madison is beautifully unique, family friendly, full of night on the town options, as well as, day time places to explore…" -Jessica E.

"Babcock Ice Cream, Ha Long Bay, Biergarten at Olbrich Park, the sunrise and sunset viewed at Olbrich Park, our beloved lakes, the Terrace, the south facing view from my 9th floor office, CESC and their willingness to start a U18 girls team last year :)" -Karyn G.

"I moved here with my sons(not being a city person)and for sure our thoughts have changed- great people, scenery, sporting events, live music and a great place!!!" -Jason K.

"People willing to help others and close knit community here is amazing!! People love sports here and now we got soccer team that all die hard futbol fans can say the team is from Madison my hometown and wear the kit, shirt, scarf with pride!!!" -Tenzin K.K.

"I love everything about summers! Boating, beer on restaurant patios, outdoor concerts, farmer's market, the zoo, the biking and jogging trails around lakes, the arboretum, Memorial Union, the view from the top of Bascom Hill, Madison's outdoor parks, and a leisurely stroll up State Street — especially if it includes a stop at Chocolate Shoppe ice cream — to see Wisconsin's awesome capitol building. Can't wait to see some professional soccer at Breese Stevens Field!!" -Katy K.F.

"I love the culture of Madison. It is one that nurtures farmer’s markets, local artists, the blending of international and local/rural WI, and sports." -Kate Y.

"I love that we’re going to have a new pro soccer team to support right here in town!!!! Can’t wait for games to start!" -William S.

"I moved here from NC, so I love the Madison summers, cheese curds from Old Fashioned, and the variety of beer!" -Abadeer B.

"What I love about Madison is that my son, daughter in-law and first grandchild just moved there this past weekend, and as a long time soccer supporter, I will now get to see my new favorite team AND my son's family every time we visit!" -Mark S.

"I love the food, the beer, and the people!! Wouldn't wanna live anywhere else" -Katie M.

"love the people and everything about Madison. There is always something to do no matter the season. Now having a pro soccer team makes the city even better" -Timothy Z.

"Madison has a place that helped my special needs child nine years ago come out of his shell and he has had a very special friend that is like a brother to him that lives there." -Lois S.

"Madison is an amazing and active city; bike trails, farmers market, the UW, and more! We take a lot of pride in where we live and we'll take a lot of pride in our new FC!" -Allison B.

"I love everything about Madison the history behind the city and all the historic buildings as well as the people and the sports teams." -Joshua S.

"Love the Capitol and downtown area. It’s a fairly large city but still has a small town feel. It’s definitely Home!" -Liz B.

"Born and raised in Madison and love it and now we have our own team couldn’t want anything else" -Christian G.

"I moved here 6 years ago. I love that I met and married my wife here and that it never ceases to turn up fun adventures for us to enjoy." -Ian M.P.

"The variety that is Madison – food, activities, people, culture." -Jeynae T.S.

"I love the ice-cream at the memorial union and the fact that now we have a pro-soccer team." -Marcio S.

"I just moved to Madison from Charlotte, NC and I absolutely LOVE the Dane County Farmers' Market and the high voter turnout in this city! I also love that my new city now has pro soccer! #ForwardForMadison" -Elizabeth C.

"I love everything about Madison so far. After having just moved out here a few years ago, I am finding that Madison is the melting pot I crave to be in." -Elizabeth A.R.

"The thing I like best about Madison is the amazing diversity. The people, food, music, and seasons have it all!" -Jeff C.

"I love everything about Madison. I’ve lived a lot of places in the past 10 years, but this is the one that made me feel at home immediately." -Kortney B.

"I love that there is such a huge soccer environment in Madison, it creates so many opportunities for adults and children!" -Erin T.

"Nothing better than to finally have a professional soccer team to support here in Madison! I love the sense of community here in Madison, especially in and around the isthmus and university. I have a feeling this club will receive loads of support!" -Kade Z.

"I love the history, and the history to be made with a new club." -Bailey S.

"I love the beer, the proximity to the Dells, Camp Randall, and that your soccer team's badge features my favorite bird" -Pete D.

"The people here are amazing! There is always something going on. Great food, card games (euchre), and the Lakes." -Ali M.

Want something new to love about Madison? We're here for you, starting in spring 2019: https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/forwardmadisonfc/tickets

This Tuesday, we hopped on Facebook to give away a Forward Madison FC prize pack. The condition of entry? Tell us something you love about Madison. Your responses blew us away, and we’ve picked some of our favorite replies:

“I love Madison’s diverse outdoor activities and events! Looking forward to adding Forward Madison games to that list!” – Katie H.

“I love Madison’s variety! People, things to do, and more!” – Chris S.

“My favorite things about Madison are Bucky Badger, boating on the lakes and that we now have a soccer team!!!” – Carmen S.B.

“The Badgers and now a pro soccer team!” – Audrey P.

“I love that there’s always fun food, drink, and events in Madison!” -Mallory M.

“The city’s positive, forward thinking, energy. There is always something to do and it’s the BEST place to raise a family!” – Craig H.

“There’s always something fun to do, from sports to arts to entertainment, you’ll never be bored in Madison!!! â¤ï¸” – Aly S.

“I love that Madison finally has a soccer team. #ForwardMadison” -Trevor D.

“I love that the Plastic Pink Flamingo is our official bird!” – Kaitlyn W.

“I was on a quest to find the inaugural scarf two weeks ago in Madison. It culminated with me speaking to many excited people about THEIR new club. I love that locals immediately talked about the new club as if it were their own.” -Marsha P.

“The Terrace is one of my favorite places in the world! Love to spend summer days there.” -Alex T.

“I love that there is so much to do in Madison. Now we can add pro soccer to the list!” -Brock S.

“All the awesome outdoor adventures! Up the ‘Go’s!” -Hannah L.

“Every culture is recognized and embraced. The people are warm and welcoming, and there is never the complaint of “there’s nothing to do” especially with soccer on the way.” -Scott C.

“I like Madison because it’s a very diverse town and how the community comes together. The support for the Pro Soccer team is a good example.” -Leo R.

“I love the diversity and cultures present in Madison. I appreciate there is always something to do in this great city for whatever mood I’m in.” -PJ Y.

“I love Madison because it is so diverse and including. Everyone is welcome here, and it makes it a great place to raise a family of soccer playing / loving / watching kids.” -Gina A.R.

“I love Madison because there’s always something to do, and I never have to look very far to find something that I’ll enjoy!” -Hannah B.

“I love how hard Madison has been working to woo me lately! You want a new concert venue? Here ya go! Oh, you want a soccer team too? We’re on it! The city is growing into even more of a cultural hub and I can’t get enough!” -Mitch C.

“I loved growing up here and that I now get to raise my children here also!” -Tricia C.

“I love the lakes, the bike paths, the people, the everything!!!” -Shane D.

“Madison is beautifully unique, family friendly, full of night on the town options, as well as, day time places to explore…” -Jessica E.

“Babcock Ice Cream, Ha Long Bay, Biergarten at Olbrich Park, the sunrise and sunset viewed at Olbrich Park, our beloved lakes, the Terrace, the south facing view from my 9th floor office, CESC and their willingness to start a U18 girls team last year :)” -Karyn G.

“I moved here with my sons(not being a city person)and for sure our thoughts have changed- great people, scenery, sporting events, live music and a great place!!!” -Jason K.

“People willing to help others and close knit community here is amazing!! People love sports here and now we got soccer team that all die hard futbol fans can say the team is from Madison my hometown and wear the kit, shirt, scarf with pride!!!” -Tenzin K.K.

“I love everything about summers! Boating, beer on restaurant patios, outdoor concerts, farmer’s market, the zoo, the biking and jogging trails around lakes, the arboretum, Memorial Union, the view from the top of Bascom Hill, Madison’s outdoor parks, and a leisurely stroll up State Street — especially if it includes a stop at Chocolate Shoppe ice cream — to see Wisconsin’s awesome capitol building. Can’t wait to see some professional soccer at Breese Stevens Field!!” -Katy K.F.

“I love the culture of Madison. It is one that nurtures farmer’s markets, local artists, the blending of international and local/rural WI, and sports.” -Kate Y.

“I love that we’re going to have a new pro soccer team to support right here in town!!!! Can’t wait for games to start!” -William S.

“I moved here from NC, so I love the Madison summers, cheese curds from Old Fashioned, and the variety of beer!” -Abadeer B.

“What I love about Madison is that my son, daughter in-law and first grandchild just moved there this past weekend, and as a long time soccer supporter, I will now get to see my new favorite team AND my son’s family every time we visit!” -Mark S.

“I love the food, the beer, and the people!! Wouldn’t wanna live anywhere else” -Katie M.

“love the people and everything about Madison. There is always something to do no matter the season. Now having a pro soccer team makes the city even better” -Timothy Z.

“Madison has a place that helped my special needs child nine years ago come out of his shell and he has had a very special friend that is like a brother to him that lives there.” -Lois S.

“Madison is an amazing and active city; bike trails, farmers market, the UW, and more! We take a lot of pride in where we live and we’ll take a lot of pride in our new FC!” -Allison B.

“I love everything about Madison the history behind the city and all the historic buildings as well as the people and the sports teams.” -Joshua S.

“Love the Capitol and downtown area. It’s a fairly large city but still has a small town feel. It’s definitely Home!” -Liz B.

“Born and raised in Madison and love it and now we have our own team couldn’t want anything else” -Christian G.

“I moved here 6 years ago. I love that I met and married my wife here and that it never ceases to turn up fun adventures for us to enjoy.” -Ian M.P.

“The variety that is Madison – food, activities, people, culture.” -Jeynae T.S.

“I love the ice-cream at the memorial union and the fact that now we have a pro-soccer team.” -Marcio S.

“I just moved to Madison from Charlotte, NC and I absolutely LOVE the Dane County Farmers’ Market and the high voter turnout in this city! I also love that my new city now has pro soccer! #ForwardForMadison” -Elizabeth C.

“I love everything about Madison so far. After having just moved out here a few years ago, I am finding that Madison is the melting pot I crave to be in.” -Elizabeth A.R.

“The thing I like best about Madison is the amazing diversity. The people, food, music, and seasons have it all!” -Jeff C.

“I love everything about Madison. I’ve lived a lot of places in the past 10 years, but this is the one that made me feel at home immediately.” -Kortney B.

“I love that there is such a huge soccer environment in Madison, it creates so many opportunities for adults and children!” -Erin T.

“Nothing better than to finally have a professional soccer team to support here in Madison! I love the sense of community here in Madison, especially in and around the isthmus and university. I have a feeling this club will receive loads of support!” -Kade Z.

“I love the history, and the history to be made with a new club.” -Bailey S.

“I love the beer, the proximity to the Dells, Camp Randall, and that your soccer team’s badge features my favorite bird” -Pete D.

“The people here are amazing! There is always something going on. Great food, card games (euchre), and the Lakes.” -Ali M.

Want something new to love about Madison? We’re here for you, starting in spring 2019: https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/forwardmadisonfc/tickets

For midfielder Jeff Michaud, Forward Madison FC’s latest signing, there’s a certain part of the American soccer calendar he always looks forward to: the U.S. Open Cup.

“I love playing in the Open Cup,” Michaud said. “[The] opportunities for me are amazing and that’s the beauty of that tournament. Being the underdog, being able to go out there and leave it all out on the field because it’s win-or-go-home.”

The U.S. Open Cup is America’s oldest and perhaps most prestigious soccer tournament. Founded in 1914, the Open Cup features every professional team in the United States, regardless of league, as well as the country’s best semi-professional and amateur clubs. When Forward Madison enters the Open Cup’s 106th edition in 2019, it will be able to turn to Michaud, who has scored six goals in the tournament, as an option.

Michaud scored twice for the Wilmington Hammerhead in 2016, three times for the South Florida Surf in 2017, and once for Miami FC in 2018. The first of those goals, a long-range strike against his future club, Miami FC, remains the most dear to him.

“For me it was a little bit of a homecoming,” Michaud said. I’m a south Florida kid, I had been up in Wilmington, which was my first time living out of the state.

“My family was there, I had a lot of friends there.”

In the second minute of the game, Miami turned the ball over in its own half. Wilmington forward Matthew Barnes-Homer put his head up and looked for Michaud:

“The ball got swung to me, I was playing on the left side of the field,” Michaud recalled. “I took a touch, saw that I had an opportunity to have a strike. [I] took a touch and just laced it and beat the ‘keeper, he didn’t really stand a chance.”

For midfielder Jeff Michaud, Forward Madison FC’s latest signing, there’s a certain part of the American soccer calendar he always looks forward to: the U.S. Open Cup.

“I love playing in the Open Cup,” Michaud said. “[The] opportunities for me are amazing and that’s the beauty of that tournament. Being the underdog, being able to go out there and leave it all out on the field because it’s win-or-go-home.”

The U.S. Open Cup is America’s oldest and perhaps most prestigious soccer tournament. Founded in 1914, the Open Cup features every professional team in the United States, regardless of league, as well as the country’s best semi-professional and amateur clubs. When Forward Madison enters the Open Cup’s 106th edition in 2019, it will be able to turn to Michaud, who has scored six goals in the tournament, as an option.

Michaud scored twice for the Wilmington Hammerhead in 2016, three times for the South Florida Surf in 2017, and once for Miami FC in 2018. The first of those goals, a long-range strike against his future club, Miami FC, remains the most dear to him.

“For me it was a little bit of a homecoming,” Michaud said. I’m a south Florida kid, I had been up in Wilmington, which was my first time living out of the state.

“My family was there, I had a lot of friends there.”

In the second minute of the game, Miami turned the ball over in its own half. Wilmington forward Matthew Barnes-Homer put his head up and looked for Michaud:

“The ball got swung to me, I was playing on the left side of the field,” Michaud recalled. “I took a touch, saw that I had an opportunity to have a strike. [I] took a touch and just laced it and beat the ‘keeper, he didn’t really stand a chance.”

Wilmington would go on to win the game 2-1, and for Michaud, it was the start of his prolific Open Cup goalscoring record.

The next year, playing for the South Florida Surf in the USL Premier Development League, Michaud scored three times in two games, including a scintillating half-volley against Red Force FC.

Wilmington would go on to win the game 2-1, and for Michaud, it was the start of his prolific Open Cup goalscoring record.

The next year, playing for the South Florida Surf in the USL Premier Development League, Michaud scored three times in two games, including a scintillating half-volley against Red Force FC.

In 2018, Michaud, linking up with current Madison head coach Daryl Shore at Miami FC, found himself on the scoresheet again during an Open Cup play-in game. This time, Michaud dribbled the ball around the defense before curling it into the top corner.

In 2018, Michaud, linking up with current Madison head coach Daryl Shore at Miami FC, found himself on the scoresheet again during an Open Cup play-in game. This time, Michaud dribbled the ball around the defense before curling it into the top corner.

Jeff Michaud joins Forward Madison FC for its inaugural USL League One season in 2019. Follow Michaud on Instagram at @jeffmichaud_. Michaud’s signing will be confirmed pending league and federation approval.

Jeff Michaud joins Forward Madison FC for its inaugural USL League One season in 2019. Follow Michaud on Instagram at @jeffmichaud_. Michaud’s signing will be confirmed pending league and federation approval.

MADISON, WI, November 29, 2018 — Forward Madison FC has signed midfielder Jeff Michaud to its squad for the 2019 season. The 25-year-old midfielder joins the team after winning the 2018 National Premier Soccer League (NPSL) championship with Miami FC. Michaud has also represented the Tampa Bay Rowdies and Wilmington Hammerheads during his professional career.

Head coach Daryl Shore praised Michaud’s signing. “Jeff is a hard working, two-way midfielder who has a knack for scoring important goals,” Shore said. “What we like about him are his defending qualities and his ability to get forward from deeper spots on the field.”

In particular, Michaud has developed a habit of finding the back of the net during the U.S. Open Cup, the oldest and perhaps most prestigious soccer tournament in the United States. Forward Madison will enter the Open Cup’s 106th edition next season with a man who has scored six goals in the competition, including one against Major League Soccer’s Real Salt Lake.

“I’m the type of player that shows up in big games,” Michaud said. “When it’s all-or-nothing, I think I tend to perform very well.”

Shore coached Michaud earlier this year in Miami, and he was present as Michaud scored in both the NPSL semi-final and championship games.

“We are excited to add Jeff to our team and are looking forward to what he will bring to our team both on and off of the field,” Shore said.

According to Michaud, he’ll be looking to do more of the same in Madison.

“I’d like to continue right where I left off with Daryl,” Michaud said. “I’m really looking forward to getting out there.”

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

MADISON, WI, November 29, 2018 — Forward Madison FC has signed midfielder Jeff Michaud to its squad for the 2019 season. The 25-year-old midfielder joins the team after winning the 2018 National Premier Soccer League (NPSL) championship with Miami FC. Michaud has also represented the Tampa Bay Rowdies and Wilmington Hammerheads during his professional career.

Head coach Daryl Shore praised Michaud’s signing. “Jeff is a hard working, two-way midfielder who has a knack for scoring important goals,” Shore said. “What we like about him are his defending qualities and his ability to get forward from deeper spots on the field.”

In particular, Michaud has developed a habit of finding the back of the net during the U.S. Open Cup, the oldest and perhaps most prestigious soccer tournament in the United States. Forward Madison will enter the Open Cup’s 106th edition next season with a man who has scored six goals in the competition, including one against Major League Soccer’s Real Salt Lake.

“I’m the type of player that shows up in big games,” Michaud said. “When it’s all-or-nothing, I think I tend to perform very well.”

Shore coached Michaud earlier this year in Miami, and he was present as Michaud scored in both the NPSL semi-final and championship games.

“We are excited to add Jeff to our team and are looking forward to what he will bring to our team both on and off of the field,” Shore said.

According to Michaud, he’ll be looking to do more of the same in Madison.

“I’d like to continue right where I left off with Daryl,” Michaud said. “I’m really looking forward to getting out there.”

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

Madison, WI, November 21, 2018 — Forward Madison FC has signed Ecuadorian midfielder Danny Tenorio as its second-ever player. Tenorio joins the team after having most recently played for Naples United FC in the National Premier Soccer League (NPSL).

Get to know Danny Tenorio: read our full Q&A with him here.

Head Coach Daryl Shore said he is pleased  to be able to add Tenorio to the inaugural Forward Madison FC roster.

"Danny is an exciting attacking player who can play as a 10 or out wide because he is calm on the ball and looks to involve the players around him,” Shore said. “We are excited to add Danny to our group. He is the type of player that the fans will appreciate on the field with his attacking abilities, but most importantly his passion for the game and desire to win were qualities that we felt were important for our team."

Tenorio, a native of Ecuador, played in his home country for clubs in Guayaquil and Quito early in his career, including Independiente del Valle, which reached the final of the Copa Libertadores in 2016. The 25-year-old moved to Florida to play for Naples United in 2018, where he caught the eye of Shore.

"It feels so amazing to have signed my contract," Tenorio said. "I’m very happy for the opportunity and I can’t wait to be on the field with my teammates."

Tenorio’s signing will be confirmed pending league and federation approval.

Follow Danny on Instagram and Twitter at @danny_tenorio10.

Buy tickets for Forward Madison FC's inaugural 2019 season here.

Madison, WI, November 21, 2018 — Forward Madison FC has signed Ecuadorian midfielder Danny Tenorio as its second-ever player. Tenorio joins the team after having most recently played for Naples United FC in the National Premier Soccer League (NPSL).

Get to know Danny Tenorio: read our full Q&A with him here.

Head Coach Daryl Shore said he is pleased  to be able to add Tenorio to the inaugural Forward Madison FC roster.

“Danny is an exciting attacking player who can play as a 10 or out wide because he is calm on the ball and looks to involve the players around him,” Shore said. “We are excited to add Danny to our group. He is the type of player that the fans will appreciate on the field with his attacking abilities, but most importantly his passion for the game and desire to win were qualities that we felt were important for our team.”

Tenorio, a native of Ecuador, played in his home country for clubs in Guayaquil and Quito early in his career, including Independiente del Valle, which reached the final of the Copa Libertadores in 2016. The 25-year-old moved to Florida to play for Naples United in 2018, where he caught the eye of Shore.

“It feels so amazing to have signed my contract,” Tenorio said. “I’m very happy for the opportunity and I can’t wait to be on the field with my teammates.”

Tenorio’s signing will be confirmed pending league and federation approval.

Follow Danny on Instagram and Twitter at @danny_tenorio10.

Buy tickets for Forward Madison FC’s inaugural 2019 season here.

It's official: Ecuadorian attacker Danny Tenorio is Forward Madison FC's second-ever player signing, pending league and federation approval. But who exactly is Danny Tenorio, and what can fans expect from him? We sat down with our new signing to get to know him a little better…

So, Danny, how does it feel to have signed a contract with Forward Madison FC?

It feels so amazing to have signed my contract. I’m very happy for the opportunity and I can’t wait to be on the field with my teammates. 

Can you tell us a little about your background? Where did you grow up, and when did you start playing soccer?

Well, I’m from Guayaquil, Ecuador. I started playing soccer when I was little in the 'hood, and after that I went to Quito, the capital, to play for a couple of teams (Independiente del Valle, C.D. Técnico Universitario, C.S.D. Macará and Puerto Quito). After that I went to Naples, Florida (with Naples United) and now I’m here.

Why did you decide to sign for Forward Madison?

They were looking at me since I played at Naples United, and I think I took the right decision. I want say thanks to Coach Shore for giving me a huge opportunity.

You played in Florida before this… it's going be a little colder here, isn't it!?

Yeah, I played before in Florida, and yes here it's a little bit colder! 

How do you know head coach Daryl Shore? Are you excited to play for him?

I know him because of my best friend, Joao Plata. He plays for Real Salt Lake and Daryl coached him, so it's very exciting to play in his team now. 

What kind of player are you? What should the fans expect to see when you're on the field?

I’m a left or right forward. I'm a hard worker, I will do all my best in the field.

Do you have any goals for this season in Madison?

Yes, I want to win the league. I want to get a championship, and we will be working on it.

What would you like to say to the supporters of Forward Madison FC?

I want to say thanks for the support, I hope you guys believe in us.

Follow Danny on Instagram and Twitter at @danny_tenorio10.

It’s official: Ecuadorian attacker Danny Tenorio is Forward Madison FC’s second-ever player signing, pending league and federation approval. But who exactly is Danny Tenorio, and what can fans expect from him? We sat down with our new signing to get to know him a little better…

So, Danny, how does it feel to have signed a contract with Forward Madison FC?

It feels so amazing to have signed my contract. I’m very happy for the opportunity and I can’t wait to be on the field with my teammates. 

Can you tell us a little about your background? Where did you grow up, and when did you start playing soccer?

Well, I’m from Guayaquil, Ecuador. I started playing soccer when I was little in the ‘hood, and after that I went to Quito, the capital, to play for a couple of teams (Independiente del Valle, C.D. Técnico Universitario, C.S.D. Macará and Puerto Quito). After that I went to Naples, Florida (with Naples United) and now I’m here.

Why did you decide to sign for Forward Madison?

They were looking at me since I played at Naples United, and I think I took the right decision. I want say thanks to Coach Shore for giving me a huge opportunity.

You played in Florida before this… it’s going be a little colder here, isn’t it!?

Yeah, I played before in Florida, and yes here it’s a little bit colder! 

How do you know head coach Daryl Shore? Are you excited to play for him?

I know him because of my best friend, Joao Plata. He plays for Real Salt Lake and Daryl coached him, so it’s very exciting to play in his team now. 

What kind of player are you? What should the fans expect to see when you’re on the field?

I’m a left or right forward. I’m a hard worker, I will do all my best in the field.

Do you have any goals for this season in Madison?

Yes, I want to win the league. I want to get a championship, and we will be working on it.

What would you like to say to the supporters of Forward Madison FC?

I want to say thanks for the support, I hope you guys believe in us.

Follow Danny on Instagram and Twitter at @danny_tenorio10.