Bring a National Premier Soccer League team to the PA-MD-WV tri-state region #BeAtTheFront

Bring a National Premier Soccer League team to the PA-MD-WV tri-state region #BeAtTheFront

Started
May 23, 2023
Signatures: 720Next Goal: 1,000
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Why this petition matters

Started by Martin Barrett

By signing this petition, you are supportive of bringing a National Premier Soccer League (NPSL) team to the PA-MD-WV tri-state region!

What is the idea?

To bring a minor league (equivalent) men's soccer team to the PA-MD-WV tri-state region for the 2024 season.

What is the inspiration?

The inspiration is threefold...

First, the team would complement much of the hard work that continues to be done by youth soccer organizations locally in growing the game within the region. Specifically, the team would provide an aspirational goal for young players once they've aged out of youth soccer (i.e., an opportunity to play a really high standard of soccer without having to leave the region to do so!).

Second, the tri-state area deserves minor league sports! The idea is that the team would deepen civic pride and community spirit. Furthermore, the team would help to bring individuals, groups, and businesses together from across the region through a shared interest in the success of the team.

Third, the team would provide volunteer opportunities for students - high school and college - to be involved in managing a sport organization. In turn, the team would provide essential skills for the region's young professionals in an exciting industry.

What is the NPSL?

The NPSL is the recognized fourth tier of men's adult soccer in the United States. If you place this in baseball terms, the NPSL operates at the Single A level. However, the NPSL operates more so like a collegiate wooden bat league (i.e., fully amateur). With a league that operates over a relatively short 10-week window between May and July, the players in the league represent some of the best collegiate players across the country who compete as a way to develop and showcase their talents at the highest levels without compromising their college eligibility - but that's not to say there aren't slightly younger and older non-collegiate players competing in the league also! There are almost 100 different NPSL clubs divided into 4 regions and 14 conferences. The closest team to the PA-MD-WV tri-state region is FC Frederick. A little further down state is the Annapolis Blues. 

Why call the team Allegheny Front?

From a geographical perspective, the Allegheny Front is an escarpment in the Allegheny Mountains that runs from southern Pennsylvania into western Maryland and then into eastern West Virginia. Ultimately, the name aligns with the tri-state region and the population we are looking to get excited about this venture (see map below). Furthermore, the geology of this area is more than just a landscape. It's a fundamental part of who we are and that's what we are trying to tap into with Allegheny Front Soccer Club.

tri-state region map

What is the ask from supporters?

We are looking for individuals who want to #BeAtTheFront of this venture. You don't have to be a die-hard soccer fan to support this idea. Alternatively, you might just be passionate about this region and it's prosperity. Either way, here is our ask:

  1. Please sign the petition.
  2. Share the petition with friends, family, and anyone who you think might be interested in this venture.
  3. Join our social media community. Facebook/Twitter/Instagram: @TheFrontSoccer.
  4. If you want to learn more or you think you want to help in any way, we absolutely want to hear from you! Send us a DM using one of the social media accounts above.

Thank you!

Support now
Signatures: 720Next Goal: 1,000
Support now
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