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Hundreds of fans stand in line on the 16th Street sidewalk, waiting for the gates to the biggest party in the city to open. The stage is set, stretching across L Street and reaching towards the top stories of the adjacent buildings. 

It’s Thursday, April 14, 2016. There’s an aura of excitement wafting through the warm springtime air. Fans’ voices carry in the slight breeze, intermingling with the final sound checks taking placing inside the gates. It’s as if the air itself is full of the passion, purpose and drve that has brought Sacramento to this moment.

This isn’t a headlining performance on the final day of a national music festival. It’s not a stop on the reunion tour of everyone’s favorite band. No, instead, it’s 10:35 a.m.—on a Thursday – in downtown Sacramento. The fans are here waiting to welcome Major League Soccer Commissioner Don Garber to Sacramento.

We will go to 28 teams, and we hope and we totally expect that Sacramento is one of the next four.

It seems that every scarf held high, Tower Bridge Battalion chant, victory as well as defeat, has led to this pivotal moment. Over the brief history of Sacramento Republic FC, this is one moment that truly belongs to the Indomitable City and its soccer community.

Indeed, Republic FC has found itself at the epicenter of change and action in this once status quo town. In the cultural and economic renaissance of food, drink, music, art and enterprise, Republic FC’s passionate fanbase and the club itself, has marched forward with a parallel movement of whirlwind change and newfound civic swagger.

Since its inception, Republic FC’s founders shared a vision with fans and the community to bring the world’s game to Sacramento. That vision, which includes bringing MLS to the region, is about the beautiful game, but it is also so much more.

Republic FC exists to make the Sacramento region into the most inspiring, energetic and rewarding place to live, work and play. This indomitable movement runs parallel to the cultural shift that is underway in Sacramento, creating a gathering place for our diverse community while also propelling growth through the construction of an MLS stadium in The Railyards; serving as a catalyst for the largest urban infill project in the country.

Hundreds of fans stand in line on the 16th Street sidewalk, waiting for the gates to the biggest party in the city to open. The stage is set, stretching across L Street and reaching towards the top stories of the adjacent buildings. 

It’s Thursday, April 14, 2016. There’s an aura of excitement wafting through the warm springtime air. Fans’ voices carry in the slight breeze, intermingling with the final sound checks taking placing inside the gates. It’s as if the air itself is full of the passion, purpose and drve that has brought Sacramento to this moment.

This isn’t a headlining performance on the final day of a national music festival. It’s not a stop on the reunion tour of everyone’s favorite band. No, instead, it’s 10:35 a.m.—on a Thursday – in downtown Sacramento. The fans are here waiting to welcome Major League Soccer Commissioner Don Garber to Sacramento.

We will go to 28 teams, and we hope and we totally expect that Sacramento is one of the next four.

It seems that every scarf held high, Tower Bridge Battalion chant, victory as well as defeat, has led to this pivotal moment. Over the brief history of Sacramento Republic FC, this is one moment that truly belongs to the Indomitable City and its soccer community.

Indeed, Republic FC has found itself at the epicenter of change and action in this once status quo town. In the cultural and economic renaissance of food, drink, music, art and enterprise, Republic FC’s passionate fanbase and the club itself, has marched forward with a parallel movement of whirlwind change and newfound civic swagger.

Since its inception, Republic FC’s founders shared a vision with fans and the community to bring the world’s game to Sacramento. That vision, which includes bringing MLS to the region, is about the beautiful game, but it is also so much more.

Republic FC exists to make the Sacramento region into the most inspiring, energetic and rewarding place to live, work and play. This indomitable movement runs parallel to the cultural shift that is underway in Sacramento, creating a gathering place for our diverse community while also propelling growth through the construction of an MLS stadium in The Railyards; serving as a catalyst for the largest urban infill project in the country.

It is no coincidence that The Railyards was once the epicenter for our country’s westward expansion and the world’s greatest technology, the locomotive. The modern-day urban infill project will now serve as ground zero for Sacramento 3.0 and a better place for all to live, work and play.

It is no coincidence that The Railyards was once the epicenter for our country’s westward expansion and the world’s greatest technology, the locomotive. The modern-day urban infill project will now serve as ground zero for Sacramento 3.0 and a better place for all to live, work and play.

At 11:00 a.m., the gates to the MLS Block Party open and the crowd rolls in like a tsunami wave: tumultuous, overpowering and colossal. Supporters stake their claim on the patio tables at de Vere’s Irish Pub and hang their flags over the rail. Spontaneous cheers of “M-L-S, M-L-S” intermittently break out among the more than 2,400 people who pack the streets, while music cascades out of the speakers on stage.

These soccer fans are excited that the highest professional league for the sport in United States and Canada want to include Sacramento in its plans, but it is not the only reason they are here. If anything, Republic FC’s indomitable movement has transformed into one that is just as much about celebrating Sacramento’s identity and swagger as it is about soccer.

Here in downtown, just after noon, fans with beers in hand are transfixed as Borussia Dortmund and Liverpool FC players—who are 20 feet tall on the giant stage screen—take to the pitch. Then, the screen goes momentarily blank, and the crowd that was absorbed in the Europa League quarterfinal match expresses their agitation in the loss of programming.

The agitation becomes elation, when it quickly becomes clear that the moment they’ve been waiting for is here. MLS Commissioner Don Garber takes to the stage, accompanied by Mayor Kevin Johnson, Republic FC Lead Investor Kevin Nagle, Republic FC President Warren Smith and 49ers President Paraag Marathe.

Introductions and pleasantries over, Garber takes the microphone and the sea of fans in Old Glory Red falls silent, ready to hang on each uttered word.

“We never ever, ever in our wildest dreams expected that on a Thursday and in Sacramento that people would come out to show their support for their city and club [like this],” says Garber.

It is perhaps this simple observation where all of this—MLS, Sacramento, Republic FC and soccer come full circle.

Early in its infancy, the city of Sacramento adopted as a motto “Urbs Indomita,” or Indomitable City, because its citizens were not easily subdued. They did not surrender to fire, floods or disease and literally moved rivers to raise the city.

For so many years, soccer here in the United States has, like Sacramento, been an underdog of sorts. Naysayers have said “soccer will never make it here in the Unites States,” but slowly and surely, the American soccer community has shown an indomitable spirit of its own as MLS celebrates their 20th anniversary and Copa America comes to North America.

Perhaps this is where and why Sacramento is built for MLS and even MLS is built for Sacramento. Both movements were destined to thrive despite the obstacles they faced upon their establishment.

“We will go to 28 teams, and we hope and we totally expect that Sacramento is one of the next four.” The crowd erupts in cheers and exalted shouts that carry to Capitol Mall as Garber speaks these pivotal words.

When MLS does stake its flag in Sacramento, it will be due to the passion, work and collaboration that makes Republic FC an Indomitable Club and Sacramento an Indomitable City. But it’s the paralleled destinies of the world’s game and California’s capital that will give rise to so much more.

At 11:00 a.m., the gates to the MLS Block Party open and the crowd rolls in like a tsunami wave: tumultuous, overpowering and colossal. Supporters stake their claim on the patio tables at de Vere’s Irish Pub and hang their flags over the rail. Spontaneous cheers of “M-L-S, M-L-S” intermittently break out among the more than 2,400 people who pack the streets, while music cascades out of the speakers on stage.

These soccer fans are excited that the highest professional league for the sport in United States and Canada want to include Sacramento in its plans, but it is not the only reason they are here. If anything, Republic FC’s indomitable movement has transformed into one that is just as much about celebrating Sacramento’s identity and swagger as it is about soccer.

Here in downtown, just after noon, fans with beers in hand are transfixed as Borussia Dortmund and Liverpool FC players—who are 20 feet tall on the giant stage screen—take to the pitch. Then, the screen goes momentarily blank, and the crowd that was absorbed in the Europa League quarterfinal match expresses their agitation in the loss of programming.

The agitation becomes elation, when it quickly becomes clear that the moment they’ve been waiting for is here. MLS Commissioner Don Garber takes to the stage, accompanied by Mayor Kevin Johnson, Republic FC Lead Investor Kevin Nagle, Republic FC President Warren Smith and 49ers President Paraag Marathe.

Introductions and pleasantries over, Garber takes the microphone and the sea of fans in Old Glory Red falls silent, ready to hang on each uttered word.

“We never ever, ever in our wildest dreams expected that on a Thursday and in Sacramento that people would come out to show their support for their city and club [like this],” says Garber.

It is perhaps this simple observation where all of this—MLS, Sacramento, Republic FC and soccer come full circle.

Early in its infancy, the city of Sacramento adopted as a motto “Urbs Indomita,” or Indomitable City, because its citizens were not easily subdued. They did not surrender to fire, floods or disease and literally moved rivers to raise the city.

For so many years, soccer here in the United States has, like Sacramento, been an underdog of sorts. Naysayers have said “soccer will never make it here in the Unites States,” but slowly and surely, the American soccer community has shown an indomitable spirit of its own as MLS celebrates their 20th anniversary and Copa America comes to North America.

Perhaps this is where and why Sacramento is built for MLS and even MLS is built for Sacramento. Both movements were destined to thrive despite the obstacles they faced upon their establishment.

“We will go to 28 teams, and we hope and we totally expect that Sacramento is one of the next four.” The crowd erupts in cheers and exalted shouts that carry to Capitol Mall as Garber speaks these pivotal words.

When MLS does stake its flag in Sacramento, it will be due to the passion, work and collaboration that makes Republic FC an Indomitable Club and Sacramento an Indomitable City. But it’s the paralleled destinies of the world’s game and California’s capital that will give rise to so much more.

Sacramento Republic FC Academy U-18 defender Nabilai Kibunguchy will wear the red, white and blue next week as he competes in the 2016 Slovakia Cup as part of the United States U-19 Men’s National Team.

Sacramento Republic FC Academy U-18 defender Nabilai Kibunguchy will wear the red, white and blue next week as he competes in the 2016 Slovakia Cup as part of the United States U-19 Men’s National Team.

Through April 25-29, Brad Friedel will lead the U-19s in Group B of the eight-team tournament, first facing Georgia in Mondranka on Apr. 25, then Ukraine in Bernolakovo on Apr. 26 and, finally, the host Slovakia on Apr. 28 in Senica. Meanwhile, Russia, Czech Republic, Norway and FRY Macedonia will face off in Group A. The winner of each group will advance to tournament final on April 29 in Myjava.

Kibunguchy is the third Republic FC Academy player to receive a U.S. National Youth Team call-up during the 2015-2016 U.S. Soccer Development Academy season.

“This is a tremendous honor, for Nabi, for the Academy and for the team,” said Republic FC Academy U-18 Head Coach Benjamin Ziemer. “Everyone works so hard to put in the work necessary to reach a high level and push each other. The environment created by Republic FC from the top down is paying off and assisting multiple players reach the national team level.”

Through April 25-29, Brad Friedel will lead the U-19s in Group B of the eight-team tournament, first facing Georgia in Mondranka on Apr. 25, then Ukraine in Bernolakovo on Apr. 26 and, finally, the host Slovakia on Apr. 28 in Senica. Meanwhile, Russia, Czech Republic, Norway and FRY Macedonia will face off in Group A. The winner of each group will advance to tournament final on April 29 in Myjava.

Kibunguchy is the third Republic FC Academy player to receive a U.S. National Youth Team call-up during the 2015-2016 U.S. Soccer Development Academy season.

“This is a tremendous honor, for Nabi, for the Academy and for the team,” said Republic FC Academy U-18 Head Coach Benjamin Ziemer. “Everyone works so hard to put in the work necessary to reach a high level and push each other. The environment created by Republic FC from the top down is paying off and assisting multiple players reach the national team level.”

Kibunguchy started playing soccer at when he was five years old with local recreational youth clubs. Kibunguchy played for local teams Elk Grove Everton, Sacramento United and FC Elk Grove before joining the Republic FC Academy’s inaugural U-18 roster. While his former youth clubs built the foundation for his development, Kibunguchy credits the Academy’s training environment for helping him reach a new level of play.

“I’ve gotten way more experience and I think I’ve matured not only as a soccer player but also as a person,” said Kibunguchy. “Republic FC has provided a lot for their Academy and everyone on the team so I’m really grateful.”

Kibunguchy has not only caught the eyes of national youth team coaches, but also the eyes of Republic FC Head Coach and Technical Director Paul Buckle. On several occasions, the young defender trained with Republic FC’s first team and dressed for Republic FC’s friendlies against MLS-sides San Jose Earthquakes and Colorado Rapids during the club’s preseason. Although he did not play, Buckle continued to heap praise on the young defender.

“He has come on leaps and bounds, so much so we had him involved with our first team, including our preseason friendlies. No surprise that he has taken a step in the right direction,” said Buckle. “It is a proud moment for his family and the club and a tremendous opportunity to show how good of a player he truly is.”

The Elk Grove native and senior at Cosumnes Oaks High School has been a key player for his team, with 23 appearances in 25 matches, including 22 starts. The 18-year-old defender also scored a goal in the team’s 4-2 win against Santa Cruz Breakers Academy U-17/18 team on Saturday, Sept. 26, 2015. Kibunguchy will be attending and playing at UC Davis as a freshman this fall having signed a letter of intent for the university back in February.

Kibunguchy started playing soccer at when he was five years old with local recreational youth clubs. Kibunguchy played for local teams Elk Grove Everton, Sacramento United and FC Elk Grove before joining the Republic FC Academy’s inaugural U-18 roster. While his former youth clubs built the foundation for his development, Kibunguchy credits the Academy’s training environment for helping him reach a new level of play.

“I’ve gotten way more experience and I think I’ve matured not only as a soccer player but also as a person,” said Kibunguchy. “Republic FC has provided a lot for their Academy and everyone on the team so I’m really grateful.”

Kibunguchy has not only caught the eyes of national youth team coaches, but also the eyes of Republic FC Head Coach and Technical Director Paul Buckle. On several occasions, the young defender trained with Republic FC’s first team and dressed for Republic FC’s friendlies against MLS-sides San Jose Earthquakes and Colorado Rapids during the club’s preseason. Although he did not play, Buckle continued to heap praise on the young defender.

“He has come on leaps and bounds, so much so we had him involved with our first team, including our preseason friendlies. No surprise that he has taken a step in the right direction,” said Buckle. “It is a proud moment for his family and the club and a tremendous opportunity to show how good of a player he truly is.”

The Elk Grove native and senior at Cosumnes Oaks High School has been a key player for his team, with 23 appearances in 25 matches, including 22 starts. The 18-year-old defender also scored a goal in the team’s 4-2 win against Santa Cruz Breakers Academy U-17/18 team on Saturday, Sept. 26, 2015. Kibunguchy will be attending and playing at UC Davis as a freshman this fall having signed a letter of intent for the university back in February.

However, Kibunguchy is not the only standout member of the Republic FC U-18 Academy team. The U-18s currently sit in second place in the U.S. Soccer Development Academy’s Northwest Division and are currently in a playoff position. Seven U-18 Academy players, including Kibunguchy, have signed letters of intent to play college soccer.

“Being a part of the Academy has helped me immensely because before I joined I wasn’t even on the radar of national team coaches,” said Kibunguchy. “Then I came here and I’ve put in a lot of hard work this season. All the scouts come to every game for the Academy and so that has just been crucial to this call-up. I was surprised by it but at the same time I knew I had earned it.”

Republic FC fans can keep track of Kibunguchy and the U.S. U-19 Men’s National Team during their Slovakia Cup tournament run by following U.S. Soccer’s official Twitter feed for Youth National Teams, @ussoccer_ynt.

However, Kibunguchy is not the only standout member of the Republic FC U-18 Academy team. The U-18s currently sit in second place in the U.S. Soccer Development Academy’s Northwest Division and are currently in a playoff position. Seven U-18 Academy players, including Kibunguchy, have signed letters of intent to play college soccer.

“Being a part of the Academy has helped me immensely because before I joined I wasn’t even on the radar of national team coaches,” said Kibunguchy. “Then I came here and I’ve put in a lot of hard work this season. All the scouts come to every game for the Academy and so that has just been crucial to this call-up. I was surprised by it but at the same time I knew I had earned it.”

Republic FC fans can keep track of Kibunguchy and the U.S. U-19 Men’s National Team during their Slovakia Cup tournament run by following U.S. Soccer’s official Twitter feed for Youth National Teams, @ussoccer_ynt.

Goalkeepers: Benn Diaz (Queretaro; Los Angeles, Calif.), Ben Hale (FC Dallas; Frisco, Texas)

Defenders: Hugo Arellano (LA Galaxy; Norwalk, Calif.), Danny Barbir (West Bromwich Albion; Allentown, Pa.), Marlon Fossey (Fulham FC; Surbiton, England), Nabilai Kibunguchy (Sacramento Republic; Sacramento, Calif.), Hector Montalvo (FC Dallas; Frisco, Texas), Alexis Velela (New York Cosmos; San Diego, Calif.)

Midfielders: Eric Calvillo (New York Cosmos; Palmdale, Calif.), Pierre Da Silva (Orlando City SC; Port Chester, N.Y.), Luca De La Torre (Fulham FC; San Diego, Calif.), Sebastien Des Pres (RSL Arizona; San Diego, Calif.), Ander Egiluz (Athletic Bilbao; Getxo, Spain), Nelson Hunsinger (Leg A-Z; Mary Esther, Fla.), Weston McKinnie (FC Dallas; Little Elm, Texas)

Forwards: Colby Agu (Capital Area Railhawks; Cary, N.C.), Ernesto Espinoza (Club Tijuana; San Diego, Calif.), Joe Gallardo (Unattached; San Diego, Calif.), Brandon Vazquez (Club Tijuana; Chula Vista, Calif.), Isaiah Young (PDA; Berlin, N.J.)

Goalkeepers: Benn Diaz (Queretaro; Los Angeles, Calif.), Ben Hale (FC Dallas; Frisco, Texas)

Defenders: Hugo Arellano (LA Galaxy; Norwalk, Calif.), Danny Barbir (West Bromwich Albion; Allentown, Pa.), Marlon Fossey (Fulham FC; Surbiton, England), Nabilai Kibunguchy (Sacramento Republic; Sacramento, Calif.), Hector Montalvo (FC Dallas; Frisco, Texas), Alexis Velela (New York Cosmos; San Diego, Calif.)

Midfielders: Eric Calvillo (New York Cosmos; Palmdale, Calif.), Pierre Da Silva (Orlando City SC; Port Chester, N.Y.), Luca De La Torre (Fulham FC; San Diego, Calif.), Sebastien Des Pres (RSL Arizona; San Diego, Calif.), Ander Egiluz (Athletic Bilbao; Getxo, Spain), Nelson Hunsinger (Leg A-Z; Mary Esther, Fla.), Weston McKinnie (FC Dallas; Little Elm, Texas)

Forwards: Colby Agu (Capital Area Railhawks; Cary, N.C.), Ernesto Espinoza (Club Tijuana; San Diego, Calif.), Joe Gallardo (Unattached; San Diego, Calif.), Brandon Vazquez (Club Tijuana; Chula Vista, Calif.), Isaiah Young (PDA; Berlin, N.J.)

Sacramento Republic FC are set to kick off their 2016 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup run in a Second Round match on Wednesday, May 18. Kickoff is 7:30 p.m. at Bonney Field.

Republic FC will enter the historic tournament against the winner of the San Francisco City FC (PDL) vs CD Aguiluchos USA (NPSL) First Round match, which will be played on May 11.

What: U.S. Open Cup Second Round match
Who: Republic FC vs winner of San Francisco City FC vs CD Aguiluchos USA (May 11)
Where: Bonney Field
When: Wednesday, May 18 7:30 p.m. kickoff

Tickets to the match will go on sale to the general public on Thursday, Apr. 21 at 10 a.m. at Ticketmaster.com.

This match is included in the 2016 season ticket package. Season Ticket Holders may print their tickets for the match at home by logging into their Republic FC My Account Manager or by contacting Republic FC at (916) 307-6100 or tickets@https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/sacrepublicfc.

Sacramento Republic FC are set to kick off their 2016 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup run in a Second Round match on Wednesday, May 18. Kickoff is 7:30 p.m. at Bonney Field.

Republic FC will enter the historic tournament against the winner of the San Francisco City FC (PDL) vs CD Aguiluchos USA (NPSL) First Round match, which will be played on May 11.

What: U.S. Open Cup Second Round match
Who: Republic FC vs winner of San Francisco City FC vs CD Aguiluchos USA (May 11)
Where: Bonney Field
When: Wednesday, May 18 7:30 p.m. kickoff

Tickets to the match will go on sale to the general public on Thursday, Apr. 21 at 10 a.m. at Ticketmaster.com.

This match is included in the 2016 season ticket package. Season Ticket Holders may print their tickets for the match at home by logging into their Republic FC My Account Manager or by contacting Republic FC at (916) 307-6100 or tickets@https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/sacrepublicfc.

After Tuesday’s training sessions, we caught up with Sacramento Republic FC midfielders Matt LaGrassa and Max Alvarez to get to know them a little better.

After Tuesday’s training sessions, we caught up with Sacramento Republic FC midfielders Matt LaGrassa and Max Alvarez to get to know them a little better.

1. What’s the most exciting thing about playing for your hometown team?

The most exciting thing is that my friends and family get to come out. You become a part of a soccer community when you grow up playing soccer so I know so many people here—coaches, friends, family, people that played with my brother and their families. Seeing all those people coming to watch us play is awesome

2. Favorite place to hang in Sacramento when you’re not training?

I really like Temple Coffee. And just midtown, there’s a lot of good food, coffee and places to hang out.

3. What teams (in other sports) do you root for?

I’m a huge Kings fan. I grew up a Dallas Cowboys fan for football, though I’m not as big into football anymore. Then Chelsea FC fan for Premier League.

4. Who’s your role model and why?

I have a lot of role models, but a big one for me has always been my older brother. I started playing soccer because of him and I kind of always wanted to be like him growing up. He’s a good guy to look up to.

5. What’s your order at Chipotle?

I get a burrito bowl, brown rice, black beans and depends on whatever looks the best. I always get the veggies, light sour cream and cheese and then a bunch of guacamole.

1. What’s the most exciting thing about playing for your hometown team?

The most exciting thing is that my friends and family get to come out. You become a part of a soccer community when you grow up playing soccer so I know so many people here—coaches, friends, family, people that played with my brother and their families. Seeing all those people coming to watch us play is awesome

2. Favorite place to hang in Sacramento when you’re not training?

I really like Temple Coffee. And just midtown, there’s a lot of good food, coffee and places to hang out.

3. What teams (in other sports) do you root for?

I’m a huge Kings fan. I grew up a Dallas Cowboys fan for football, though I’m not as big into football anymore. Then Chelsea FC fan for Premier League.

4. Who’s your role model and why?

I have a lot of role models, but a big one for me has always been my older brother. I started playing soccer because of him and I kind of always wanted to be like him growing up. He’s a good guy to look up to.

5. What’s your order at Chipotle?

I get a burrito bowl, brown rice, black beans and depends on whatever looks the best. I always get the veggies, light sour cream and cheese and then a bunch of guacamole.

1. What’s the most important piece of advice you would share with young fans that want to place soccer?

Stay humble. Work hard, work on your weaknesses and never lose your passion for the game.

2. What type of music are you most likely to be listening to? Name your top three artists on your playlists.

J. Balvin, Romeo Santos, Future and The Weekend. So a little bit of everything.

3. You’re stuck on a deserted island with one teammate. Which teammate do you pick and why?

Probably JJ Koval because he’s the brains. He could get me out of a sticky situation and we’ll survive our way out.

4. Favorite thing to spend your free time doing?

I like long walks on the beach, posted by the river and taking in some sun.

5. What’s your order at Chipotle?

A burrito bowl with chicken, sour cream lots of guacamole, corn and hot salsa and with a side of tortillas.

1. What’s the most important piece of advice you would share with young fans that want to place soccer?

Stay humble. Work hard, work on your weaknesses and never lose your passion for the game.

2. What type of music are you most likely to be listening to? Name your top three artists on your playlists.

J. Balvin, Romeo Santos, Future and The Weekend. So a little bit of everything.

3. You’re stuck on a deserted island with one teammate. Which teammate do you pick and why?

Probably JJ Koval because he’s the brains. He could get me out of a sticky situation and we’ll survive our way out.

4. Favorite thing to spend your free time doing?

I like long walks on the beach, posted by the river and taking in some sun.

5. What’s your order at Chipotle?

A burrito bowl with chicken, sour cream lots of guacamole, corn and hot salsa and with a side of tortillas.

Sacramento Republic FC dropped their first match of the 2016 USL season, falling 1-0 to Portland Timbers 2 on the road.

Republic FC return home to face Saint Louis FC on Saturday, Apr. 23. Kickoff is 7:30 p.m. and tickets are available at Ticketmaster.com.

Sacramento Republic FC dropped their first match of the 2016 USL season, falling 1-0 to Portland Timbers 2 on the road.

Republic FC return home to face Saint Louis FC on Saturday, Apr. 23. Kickoff is 7:30 p.m. and tickets are available at Ticketmaster.com.

With March Madness in full swing, we asked a handful of Sacramento Republic FC players to share with us who they thought would win it all, in addition to their other thoughts on the tournament.

 

First things first, who are you rooting for?

Midfielder Matt LaGrassa: “I've decided to root for Oklahoma because they are fun to watch.”

Midfielder/Defender Alfonso Motagalvan: “UNC [Chapel Hill] all the way!”

Forward Cameron Iwasa: “I’m rooting for Cal because my uncle went there and he’s a huge fan.”

Defender Emrah Klimenta: “How about more than one? Duke, Cal and Michigan State for me.”

 

What team do you think is going to be the biggest surprise of the tournament?

LaGrassa: “I’m thinking that South Dakota State could make a run!”

Motagalvan: “I think the biggest surprise will be Dayton the last several years they been a decent side. This might be their breakout year.”

Iwasa: “Biggest surprise is that I think Duke will lose in first round.”

Klimenta: “I don’t know, that’s why it’s a surprise.”

 

What’s the best mascot of the tournament?

LaGrassa: “I’m going to have to go with Purdue, The Boilermakers.”

Motogalvan: “Tarheels.”

Iwasa: “Best mascot is definitely the Shockers – so Wichita State.”

Klimenta: “The Blue Devils.”

 

Pick a Cinderella team for the tournament.

LaGrassa: “Going to go with Iowa on this one!”

Motogalvan: “My Cinderella team of the tournament Stephen F. Austin.”

Iwasa: “Hawaii is the Cinderella team. I’ve got to root for the fellow Big West guys.”

Klimenta: “I’m going with Cal Berkley.”

 

What strategy do you have when filling out your bracket?

LaGrassa: “Go with what you feel, then change what you feel, then do some research, then you will still be wrong so have fun!”

Motagalvan: “My best strategy is to keep up with college basketball all year and go with my gut instinct.”

Iwasa: “My strategy is that I'm a genius and know everything.”

Klimenta: “My strategy is not filing one out because it gives me a headache.”

 

Most importantly, who do you have winning the tournament?

LaGrassa: “I like UNC [Chapel Hill]. They haven't won [the tournament] in a while, and they are a program with a lot of history.”

Motagalvan: “UNC [Chapel Hill] will win it all. They have been up and down the top 10 ranking all year.”

Iwasa: “Michigan State will win it because of the leadership of Izzo and Valentine.”

Klimenta: “Duke, that’s my college basketball team!”

With March Madness in full swing, we asked a handful of Sacramento Republic FC players to share with us who they thought would win it all, in addition to their other thoughts on the tournament.

 

First things first, who are you rooting for?

Midfielder Matt LaGrassa: “I’ve decided to root for Oklahoma because they are fun to watch.”

Midfielder/Defender Alfonso Motagalvan: “UNC [Chapel Hill] all the way!”

Forward Cameron Iwasa: “I’m rooting for Cal because my uncle went there and he’s a huge fan.”

Defender Emrah Klimenta: “How about more than one? Duke, Cal and Michigan State for me.”

 

What team do you think is going to be the biggest surprise of the tournament?

LaGrassa: “I’m thinking that South Dakota State could make a run!”

Motagalvan: “I think the biggest surprise will be Dayton the last several years they been a decent side. This might be their breakout year.”

Iwasa: “Biggest surprise is that I think Duke will lose in first round.”

Klimenta: “I don’t know, that’s why it’s a surprise.”

 

What’s the best mascot of the tournament?

LaGrassa: “I’m going to have to go with Purdue, The Boilermakers.”

Motogalvan: “Tarheels.”

Iwasa: “Best mascot is definitely the Shockers – so Wichita State.”

Klimenta: “The Blue Devils.”

 

Pick a Cinderella team for the tournament.

LaGrassa: “Going to go with Iowa on this one!”

Motogalvan: “My Cinderella team of the tournament Stephen F. Austin.”

Iwasa: “Hawaii is the Cinderella team. I’ve got to root for the fellow Big West guys.”

Klimenta: “I’m going with Cal Berkley.”

 

What strategy do you have when filling out your bracket?

LaGrassa: “Go with what you feel, then change what you feel, then do some research, then you will still be wrong so have fun!”

Motagalvan: “My best strategy is to keep up with college basketball all year and go with my gut instinct.”

Iwasa: “My strategy is that I’m a genius and know everything.”

Klimenta: “My strategy is not filing one out because it gives me a headache.”

 

Most importantly, who do you have winning the tournament?

LaGrassa: “I like UNC [Chapel Hill]. They haven’t won [the tournament] in a while, and they are a program with a lot of history.”

Motagalvan: “UNC [Chapel Hill] will win it all. They have been up and down the top 10 ranking all year.”

Iwasa: “Michigan State will win it because of the leadership of Izzo and Valentine.”

Klimenta: “Duke, that’s my college basketball team!”

Sacramento Republic FC (2-0-1) are on the road again this Sunday, Apr. 17, as they visit Portland Timbers 2 (0-3-0) at Merlo Field at 2 p.m. The boys in Old Glory Red look to continue their 2016 USL undefeated streak and best start in franchise history, while Timbers 2 will be hoping to capture their first win of the season.

Ahead of Sunday’s match, get to know Republic FC’s opponent.

Sacramento Republic FC (2-0-1) are on the road again this Sunday, Apr. 17, as they visit Portland Timbers 2 (0-3-0) at Merlo Field at 2 p.m. The boys in Old Glory Red look to continue their 2016 USL undefeated streak and best start in franchise history, while Timbers 2 will be hoping to capture their first win of the season.

Ahead of Sunday’s match, get to know Republic FC’s opponent.

HEAD COACH

Photo Credit: Craig Mitchelldyer-T2

After parting ways with Jay Vidovich last November, Timbers 2 signed Andrew Gregor to lead the club for the 2016 season as head coach. Gregor is no stranger to the Timbers organization, having played for the Portland Timbers during their time in the former USL First Division in 2004 and again from 2007-2008. The Portland native also previously coached the Timbers Academy U-16 and U-18 teams and served as assistant coach to Vidovich during T2’s inaugural season in 2015.

Aside from playing for the Portland Timbers in the USL First Division, Gregor also spent time in the MLS with Columbus Crew and Kansas City Wizards during his 12 year professional playing career.

KEY PLAYERS

Timbers’ first round 2015 MLS Superdraft pick Nick Besler will play an integral role with T2. Last season, Besler was loaned to the USL side and played an important role in the T2 midfield, starting in 22 of his 25 appearances and logging more than 1,800 minutes. So far in 2016, Besler has scored one goal in T2’s loss to Swope Park Rangers KC and has started and played the full 90 minutes in each of the club’s three matches.

Forward Kharlton Belmar is also back for T2 and will hope to find his 2015 goal scoring form. In 2015, Belmar was T2’s leading goal scorer with 12 goals and seventh on the overall USL leading goal scorers’ list. The 2015 USL Rookie of the Year also had three assists and scored the winning goal in four of T2’s matches. This season, Belmar provided an assist to Besler for his goal against Swope Park Rangers but has yet to score himself.

Rounding out the midfield will be Jamaican youth international Andre Lewis. Although new to T2 this season, the 21-year-old midfielder has started every match this season and played the full 90 minutes in each one. Lewis spent last season with Vancouver Whitecaps FC 2, tallying three goals and two assists in 14 appearances.

RECENT TRANSACTIONS

Just days before the start of the new season, T2 added defender Steve Palacios, midfielders Christian Duarte and Irving Garcia and forward Victor Arboleda.

Palacios joins T2 for his second season in the USL after spending 2015 with Western Conference runner up LA Galaxy II. Prior to his professional career, Palacios played collegiately at Cal Poly, suiting up for the Mustangs 66 times in four seasons. The 22-year-old also played with PDL club Ventura County Fusion during the 2013 and 2014 season.

Duarte comes into T2 from California State University, Bakersfield where he played from 2012-2015. During his senior year, Duarte started all 19 matches and recorded six goals and two assists. A Houston, Texas native, this will be Duarte’s rookie professional year. He has played with the U.S. Men’s National U-17 and U-20 teams.

Joining Duarte in the midfield is Garcia. The 28-year-old will bring experience to a young team, having played in the Guatemala second division side Rosario FC last season and LA Blues prior to that. Prior to his stint in Guatemala, Garcia was drafted by the New York Red Bulls after leading UC Irvine to back to back Big West Championships. Garcia made two U.S. Open Cup appearances for the Red Bulls.

Arboleda signed to T2 from Colombian Primera Division club Deportivo Cali. He made eight appearances for the club and scored two goals, with his first goal coming in the 2015 Copa Colombia in a 2-0 win over America de Cali. The 19-year-old Arboleda has been called up to the Colombian U-15 and U-17 teams, recording one goal during his three appearances at the U-17 South American Championship.

ATTENDANCE

T2 play the majority of their home matches at the University of Portland’s Merlo Field. In their inaugural season, the average home attendance was 3,122 fans per match. This season T2 will have an opportunity to increase that average, with three matches scheduled to be played at Providence Park in May.

2015 SEASON RECAP
T2’s inaugural season ended in disappointment when the club failed to qualify for the USL Western Conference playoffs. The club won their first two ever USL matches, including their first encounter with Republic FC, but dropped points in their next three matches.

Republic FC and T2 met three times in 2015. The first match between the two sides ended in a 2-1 win for T2, but Republic FC had the upper hand in the next two match ups. Republic FC took their first win against T2 on Apr. 18, with a resounding 3-0 score at Bonney Field. The last encounter between the two sides in 2015 was at Merlo Field once again on Sept. 12, and ended in another 3-0 win for Republic FC.

With a final record of 11-15-2, T2 was left seven points out of any playoff positions.

2016 SEASON SO FAR

HEAD COACH

Photo Credit: Craig Mitchelldyer-T2

After parting ways with Jay Vidovich last November, Timbers 2 signed Andrew Gregor to lead the club for the 2016 season as head coach. Gregor is no stranger to the Timbers organization, having played for the Portland Timbers during their time in the former USL First Division in 2004 and again from 2007-2008. The Portland native also previously coached the Timbers Academy U-16 and U-18 teams and served as assistant coach to Vidovich during T2’s inaugural season in 2015.

Aside from playing for the Portland Timbers in the USL First Division, Gregor also spent time in the MLS with Columbus Crew and Kansas City Wizards during his 12 year professional playing career.

KEY PLAYERS

Timbers’ first round 2015 MLS Superdraft pick Nick Besler will play an integral role with T2. Last season, Besler was loaned to the USL side and played an important role in the T2 midfield, starting in 22 of his 25 appearances and logging more than 1,800 minutes. So far in 2016, Besler has scored one goal in T2’s loss to Swope Park Rangers KC and has started and played the full 90 minutes in each of the club’s three matches.

Forward Kharlton Belmar is also back for T2 and will hope to find his 2015 goal scoring form. In 2015, Belmar was T2’s leading goal scorer with 12 goals and seventh on the overall USL leading goal scorers’ list. The 2015 USL Rookie of the Year also had three assists and scored the winning goal in four of T2’s matches. This season, Belmar provided an assist to Besler for his goal against Swope Park Rangers but has yet to score himself.

Rounding out the midfield will be Jamaican youth international Andre Lewis. Although new to T2 this season, the 21-year-old midfielder has started every match this season and played the full 90 minutes in each one. Lewis spent last season with Vancouver Whitecaps FC 2, tallying three goals and two assists in 14 appearances.

RECENT TRANSACTIONS

Just days before the start of the new season, T2 added defender Steve Palacios, midfielders Christian Duarte and Irving Garcia and forward Victor Arboleda.

Palacios joins T2 for his second season in the USL after spending 2015 with Western Conference runner up LA Galaxy II. Prior to his professional career, Palacios played collegiately at Cal Poly, suiting up for the Mustangs 66 times in four seasons. The 22-year-old also played with PDL club Ventura County Fusion during the 2013 and 2014 season.

Duarte comes into T2 from California State University, Bakersfield where he played from 2012-2015. During his senior year, Duarte started all 19 matches and recorded six goals and two assists. A Houston, Texas native, this will be Duarte’s rookie professional year. He has played with the U.S. Men’s National U-17 and U-20 teams.

Joining Duarte in the midfield is Garcia. The 28-year-old will bring experience to a young team, having played in the Guatemala second division side Rosario FC last season and LA Blues prior to that. Prior to his stint in Guatemala, Garcia was drafted by the New York Red Bulls after leading UC Irvine to back to back Big West Championships. Garcia made two U.S. Open Cup appearances for the Red Bulls.

Arboleda signed to T2 from Colombian Primera Division club Deportivo Cali. He made eight appearances for the club and scored two goals, with his first goal coming in the 2015 Copa Colombia in a 2-0 win over America de Cali. The 19-year-old Arboleda has been called up to the Colombian U-15 and U-17 teams, recording one goal during his three appearances at the U-17 South American Championship.

ATTENDANCE

T2 play the majority of their home matches at the University of Portland’s Merlo Field. In their inaugural season, the average home attendance was 3,122 fans per match. This season T2 will have an opportunity to increase that average, with three matches scheduled to be played at Providence Park in May.

2015 SEASON RECAP
T2’s inaugural season ended in disappointment when the club failed to qualify for the USL Western Conference playoffs. The club won their first two ever USL matches, including their first encounter with Republic FC, but dropped points in their next three matches.

Republic FC and T2 met three times in 2015. The first match between the two sides ended in a 2-1 win for T2, but Republic FC had the upper hand in the next two match ups. Republic FC took their first win against T2 on Apr. 18, with a resounding 3-0 score at Bonney Field. The last encounter between the two sides in 2015 was at Merlo Field once again on Sept. 12, and ended in another 3-0 win for Republic FC.

With a final record of 11-15-2, T2 was left seven points out of any playoff positions.

2016 SEASON SO FAR

Timbers 2 has had one of the roughest start of any team in the Western Conference. The club kicked off their 2016 USL season away at Swope Park Rangers, losing 2-1, with Besler scoring the only goal for T2.

T2 then welcomed Vancouver Whitecaps FC 2 to Merlo Field on Apr. 2. A second half brace from Whitecaps FC 2 midfielder Daniel Haber and a penalty kick gave the away side a 3-0 lead by the 76th minute. Midfielder Dylan Damraoui cut Whitecaps FC 2’s advantage to two goals but the match would end in a 3-1 one loss for T2. T2’s last match was another home loss, this time failing to answer two first half goals from Rio Valley Grande FC Toros for a 2-0 loss.

Currently holding a record of 0-3-0, T2 has struggled the most with their finishing, scoring just two goals this season In their last match versus RVG FC, T2 outshot their opponents eight to three yet failed to find the back of the net. This Sunday will provide a tough challenge when they face Republic FC, who for their part have not allowed a single goal in 2016.

SUNDAY’S MATCH

The match is this Saturday, Apr. 17. Kickoff is 2:00 p.m. at Thunderbird Stadium. The match will be live streamed at https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/sacrepublicfc/matchday and fans can follow live updates on Twitter @SacRepublicFC or by using the hashtag #PORvSAC.

Timbers 2 has had one of the roughest start of any team in the Western Conference. The club kicked off their 2016 USL season away at Swope Park Rangers, losing 2-1, with Besler scoring the only goal for T2.

T2 then welcomed Vancouver Whitecaps FC 2 to Merlo Field on Apr. 2. A second half brace from Whitecaps FC 2 midfielder Daniel Haber and a penalty kick gave the away side a 3-0 lead by the 76th minute. Midfielder Dylan Damraoui cut Whitecaps FC 2’s advantage to two goals but the match would end in a 3-1 one loss for T2. T2’s last match was another home loss, this time failing to answer two first half goals from Rio Valley Grande FC Toros for a 2-0 loss.

Currently holding a record of 0-3-0, T2 has struggled the most with their finishing, scoring just two goals this season In their last match versus RVG FC, T2 outshot their opponents eight to three yet failed to find the back of the net. This Sunday will provide a tough challenge when they face Republic FC, who for their part have not allowed a single goal in 2016.

SUNDAY’S MATCH

The match is this Saturday, Apr. 17. Kickoff is 2:00 p.m. at Thunderbird Stadium. The match will be live streamed at https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/sacrepublicfc/matchday and fans can follow live updates on Twitter @SacRepublicFC or by using the hashtag #PORvSAC.

Ahead of the 2016 Copa America Centenario, the tournament’s trophy will visit Northern California from Friday, Apr. 22 through Monday, Apr. 25 as part of a national trophy tour celebrating the 100th anniversary of the historic tournament.

The trophy will make an appearance at Republic FC’s match against Saint Louis FC on Saturday, Apr. 23 at Bonney Field, with additional stops in San Francisco, San Jose and Santa Clara. Fans will have the opportunity to take photos with the trophy before the match and during halftime. Gates for the match open at 6:00 p.m., with kickoff at 7:30 p.m.

The 2016 Copa America will open on Friday, June 3 at Levi’s Stadium when the United States Men’s National Team face Colombia at 7:30 p.m. Levi’s Stadium—which was designed by HNTB, the same architects designing Republic FC’s MLS stadium—will host several Copa matches. The other matches held at Levi’s Stadium include a rematch of the 2015 Copa America final between Argentina and Chile on June 6, Uruguay vs. Jamaica on June 13, and a quarterfinal match between the winner of Group C and the runner-up in Group D on June 18.

Tickets to Republic FC’s match on Apr. 23 are available at Ticketmaster.com.

For more information about Copa America Centenario, the trophy or to purchase tickets to the tournament visit ca2016.com.

Ahead of the 2016 Copa America Centenario, the tournament’s trophy will visit Northern California from Friday, Apr. 22 through Monday, Apr. 25 as part of a national trophy tour celebrating the 100th anniversary of the historic tournament.

The trophy will make an appearance at Republic FC’s match against Saint Louis FC on Saturday, Apr. 23 at Bonney Field, with additional stops in San Francisco, San Jose and Santa Clara. Fans will have the opportunity to take photos with the trophy before the match and during halftime. Gates for the match open at 6:00 p.m., with kickoff at 7:30 p.m.

The 2016 Copa America will open on Friday, June 3 at Levi’s Stadium when the United States Men’s National Team face Colombia at 7:30 p.m. Levi’s Stadium—which was designed by HNTB, the same architects designing Republic FC’s MLS stadium—will host several Copa matches. The other matches held at Levi’s Stadium include a rematch of the 2015 Copa America final between Argentina and Chile on June 6, Uruguay vs. Jamaica on June 13, and a quarterfinal match between the winner of Group C and the runner-up in Group D on June 18.

Tickets to Republic FC’s match on Apr. 23 are available at Ticketmaster.com.

For more information about Copa America Centenario, the trophy or to purchase tickets to the tournament visit ca2016.com.