NEW YORK CITY FC CLUB GUIDE
History, Stadium, Players, and More!
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New York City FC
New York City Football Club is an American professional soccer club based in New York City that competes in Major League Soccer (MLS), the highest level of American soccer, as a member of the league’s Eastern Conference.
New York City FC History
New York City FC (NYCFC) is a professional soccer team based in New York City that competes in Major League Soccer (MLS), the highest level of soccer in the United States. The club was announced as the 20th expansion team of MLS in 2013 and began play in 2015. NYCFC is jointly owned by the English club Manchester City F.C. and the American baseball team, the New York Yankees. The collaboration between a prominent European football club and a legendary American sports franchise was seen as a significant moment for the growth of soccer in the United States.
From the outset, NYCFC aimed to make a strong impact in MLS with significant investments in player signings and infrastructure. The team appointed Jason Kreis as their first-ever head coach and signed high-profile players such as David Villa, Frank Lampard, and Andrea Pirlo. These players, known as the “Designated Players,” were expected to bring a mix of leadership, experience, and skill to the team. Despite these high-profile signings, NYCFC had a challenging debut season in 2015, finishing 8th in the Eastern Conference and missing out on the playoffs.
In the following years, NYCFC underwent several changes to build a more competitive team. After a disappointing first season, Kreis was replaced by Patrick Vieira, a former World Cup-winning French international and Arsenal legend. Under Vieira’s guidance, NYCFC saw improvement in their performance and qualified for the MLS playoffs for the first time in 2016. The club continued to strengthen its roster and develop a distinctive playing style, focusing on ball possession and aggressive pressing.
NYCFC’s progress continued over the years, as the club became a regular contender in the Eastern Conference. Despite regular-season success, the team often struggled to advance deep into the playoffs. This recurring theme was a source of frustration for the fans and the club’s management. Throughout this period, NYCFC also faced challenges regarding their home stadium, Yankee Stadium, which was not originally designed for soccer. The search for a permanent and suitable soccer-specific stadium in New York City has been an ongoing saga for the club.
In recent years, NYCFC has continued to evolve, with changes in the coaching staff and player roster. The club has developed a reputation for fostering young talent and integrating them into the first team. This approach has allowed NYCFC to maintain a competitive edge in the league while also investing in the future. The team’s efforts finally paid off when they won their first MLS Cup in 2021, defeating the Portland Timbers in the final. This victory was a significant milestone, marking the culmination of years of growth and development for the club.
New York City FC Youth Development Academy
New York City began building its youth development program in April 2014 by partnering with eight local youth soccer clubs. This foresaw the club formally announcing the creation of an academy in February 2015, beginning with a single team at U-13 and U-14 level. The academy saw its first success in 2017, with the U-16 team winning the Generation Adidas Cup, becoming the first major silverware earned by New York City in any capacity.
New York City FC Girls Academy
The NYCFC Girls Soccer Academy program provides an elite training environment for girls across four age groups (U-14, U-15, U-16/17 & U-18/19), offering the highest level of technical standards and competition for New York’s brightest young talent.
The Academy plays out of the Orangeburg New York Soccer Complex location, one of the nation’s top soccer-specific facilities, and opposite the Club’s Etihad City Football Academy elite training facility.
NYCFC Girls Academy: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
| What is the NYCFC Girls Academy? |
| The NYCFC Girls Academy provides the highest level of competition available for our brightest young talent. As part of NYCFC’s commitment to developing soccer in NY, the club has added a girls academy. The NYCFC Girls Academy program is by invitation only. Please address evaluation inquiries for the Development Academy to info@nycfcgirlsda.com. Include full name, date of birth, soccer resume and playing video (if available) for review. In addition, please click this link to pre-register for player trials. |
| What is the goal of the NYCFC Girls Academy? |
| To support the growth of girls soccer in the NY area and to provide a pathway for the most talented players to move to the US National Team and top level collegiate programs. |
| How many MLS Clubs have Girls Academies? |
| NYCFC is one of five MLS clubs supporting the new Girls initiative and hosting their own NYCFC Girls Academy. Other MLS clubs involved are FC Dallas, LA Galaxy, San Jose Earthquakes, and Orlando SC. |
| What age groups does the NYCFC Girls Academy have? |
| The NYCFC Girls Academy provides an elite training environment for girls across four age groups: U-14, U-15, U-16/17, & U-18/19. |
| How do I join (tryout for) the NYCFC Girls Academy club? |
| Girls U- 14 to 19 years old who are interested in playing for NYCFC Girls Academy should inquire about registration by emailing info@nycfcgirlsda.com and include full name, date of birth, soccer resume and playing video (if available) for review. Click here to pre-register for player trials. |
| Does the NYCFC Girls Academy Program offer players financial assistance? |
| If a player is selected to take part in the NYCFC Girls Academy but has a financial hardship, assistance will be made available to the player. |
For a complete list of FAQs, please click here.
New York City FC Boys Academy
The New York City FC Academy goal is to identify, develop and produce the best local youth soccer players in the New York Metropolitan area.
By providing the the best development experience of any club in the United States, the Academy strives to pursue excellence in a professional, competitive, fun atmosphere, providing a clear pathway to the highest levels of the game in a free-to-play program at all levels.
Operating across six age groups (U12, 13, 14, 15, 17, 19) we offer coaching, guidance, evaluation and direct contact with NYCFC Academy and first-team coaching staff, as well as invitations to top-level international tournaments with some of the globe’s most prestigious clubs.
We believe in playing beautiful football, inspiring players to take responsibility for their own development, maximizing their potentials both as soccer players and as human beings.
Education is at the heart of our academy programs, both on the field and off it and we constantly monitor and prioritize the welfare and well-being of all the individuals in our system.
We’ve developed a culture and ethos which is directly in line with our first-team philosophy, both in terms of behaviors and style of play, placing an emphasis on building a familial sense of belonging for every player, coach and staff member in our organization.
Objectives:
- Create a family atmosphere amongst our Academy players and staff
- Play beautiful football and provide clarity in our style and philosophy
- Inspire players to take responsibility for their own development
- Maximize each player’s potential both as a soccer player and a person.
- Prioritize the welfare and wellbeing of our Academy players and reinforce the importance of education
- Ensure players are developed to be assets to their community, no matter their respective prospects as a professional athlete
- Provide a clear development pathway for talent in New York City region
- Provide the best development experience of any club in the US.
- Develop a culture and ethos in line with New York City FC identity
New York City FC Academy: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
| What is NYCFC Academy? |
| The New York City Football Club Academy is where the best local, tri-state area talent come to train and play with the ultimate goal of signing a professional contract with NYCFC. |
| How is NYCFC Academy different than other clubs in the area? |
| Unlike other clubs in the New York City metro area, we are a professional soccer club that competes at the highest level in the USA and as such can offer the following: A chance to earn a professional contract with NYCFC. Coaching, guidance, evaluation and direct contact with NYCFC 1st team staff and coaches. Invitations to top level international tournaments with some of the world’s best clubs. Importantly, we are a free-to-play program for all Academy levels. |
| What teams does NYCFC Academy have? |
| NYCFC has 6 teams: U-12 (2006), U-13 (2005), U-14 (2004), U-15 (2003), U-17 (2001-2002), and U-19 (1999-2000) |
| Is NYCFC Academy free? |
| The Academy is free for all selected players and has many additional benefits. Such benefits include a comprehensive, experienced and qualified staff, equipment package for all full-time players (including full uniform and the latest adidas footwear). |
| Where will NYCFC Academy train? |
| NYCFC has been built around being the only soccer team in New York City. For the Fall 2017/Spring 2018 season, the Academy will train at St. John’s University (Belson Stadium) and Orangeburg, NY. |
| What competition do NYCFC Academy teams play? |
| All Academy teams participate in the U.S. Soccer Development Academy League. The season runs from September – June and includes local matches, domestic tournaments and select international trips. |
| Does participating in NYCFC Academy mean I lose NCAA eligibility? |
| No, players in NYCFC Academy will still be able to continue to pursue their college interests. |
| How are players selected to NYCFC Academy? |
| There are multiple ways players can be selected for NYCFC Academy: – Recommendation from NYCFC Youth Programming: Talent Centers, Camps, Clinics – Recommendation from NYCFC Youth Affiliates – Scouting through other soccer related means |
NYCFC Talent Centers
NYCFC Talent Centers offers top-level, supplemental training designed for committed players looking to develop their game with NYCFC. Each session is led by a select group of NYCFC Youth Programs Coaches and players will be exposed to training methodology and curriculum designed with NYCFC Academy to best promote player development. Stand out players in the program will have the opportunity to be invited to NYCFC Academy and City Select training. At the conclusion of the Spring program, all players will have the opportunity to represent their Talent Center location in the seasonal Talent Center Cup.
Players that have successfully graduated from NYCFC Talent Centers into the NYCFC Academy:
| Talent Center Graduates | Talent Center Location |
| N. Charalambous | Nassau |
| A. Wolanski | Danbury, CT |
| W. Kang | Nassau |
| J. DeOliveria | Danbury, CT |
| S. McCann | Westchester |
| J. Santog-Denoon | Nassau |
| M. Corrizo | Westchester |
| L. Syah | Westchester |
| M. Sudol | Westchester |
New in 2020: NYCFC Super-Y Team (U11 Boys) – Super Y offers a summer platform for elite youth soccer players to showcase their talents in a professional environment The NYCFC Super Y Team is a supplemental team that will compete against local competition throughout the summer months. This program is designed for players to play competitive soccer under the direction of NYCFC outside of their regular soccer teams. Stand out players form our Youth Programs will be invited to participant.
New in 2020: NYCFC Westchester Development Center (U7/U8) – NYCFC Development Programs are designed to offer players (U7-U8) an opportunity to begin their journey within the NYCFC Player Pathway. Each session is designed to promote individual technical growth with a focus on the fundamentals of the game. All players will participate in small sided games to help create intelligent, decisive, and confident players. Sessions are run by a select group of NYCFC Youth Programs coaches who will help lead & navigate players through their first steps of the NYCFC Player Pathway.
Talent Center Cup (U9-U14) – Each Talent Center player will have the opportunity to compete in the NYCFC Talent Center Cup. This day of competition will have each NYCFC Talent Center location compete against one another to determine which location will come out as the Season Champion. The Talent Center Cup will be played at the end of each Spring season. (Fall and Spring players will be invited).
Additional Opportunities – Select players will be invited to participate in friendly and tournament matches throughout the year.
2020 NYCFC Talent Center Schedule can be found by clicking here.
NYCFC Soccer Camps
New York City FC soccer camp scheduling information can be found by clicking here.
NYCFC Clinics
New York City FC Clinics are operated seasonally throughout the region and offer supplementary training opportunities to players of all ages and abilities. Clinics are open registration based and are geared towards individual, team, and position specific development.
For a detailed schedule and registration, please click here.
NYCFC Winter Training Programs
NYCFC Winter Training Programs offer players the opportunity to continue their development throughout the winter season!
Sessions will maximize each player’s time and contact with the ball, developing confident and creative players. The 4-week program is designed to provide players with the individual technical abilities to prepare throughout the “off-season”. Players will be grouped in each session based upon ability to create a competitive environment at every level.
For programs listed as SOLD OUT, please contact youthprograms@nycfc.com to be placed on the waitlist.
For a complete schedule of winter training programs, please click here.
NYCFC Virtual Camps
Join NYCFC Youth Programs & Manchester City Youth coaches for the NYCFC Virtual Winter Camp in Partnership with Manchester City! This 4-day camp will focus on Ball Manipulation & Ball Mastery activities for players to improve their abilities on the ball. Players will receive 90 minutes of LIVE instruction with NYCFC Youth Programs & Manchester City Youth Coaches. Each player will gain access to our exclusive online platform where they can continue to engage in NYCFC & MCFC content and quizzes!
Each activity is designed to be completed in small spaces of no more than 5 x 5 yards so players can participate in any environment!
For a complete schedule on NYCFC virtual camps, please click here.
NYCFC Talent Center & Academy Talent ID
Periodically throughout the year New York City Football Club hosts open registration NYCFC Talent Center & Academy Talent ID Assessments. Register your interest here and receive information on upcoming Talent Center & Talent ID Assessments as they are scheduled
These sessions will be open to all players who are interested in being evaluated for future NYCFC Academy and club affiliate teams. Additional information, including age groups, times, and links to register will be made available as sessions are added and can be found by clicking here.
New York City FC Youth Programs Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
| What is the office phone number and email address? |
| (212) 738-5837 youthprograms@nycfc.com |
| What is your refund policy? |
| Please call the Youth Programs office for more details. |
| Does NYCFC offer scholarships? |
| Yes, they have limited scholarships available to participants that are in need financially. Please email youthprograms@nycfc.com office for more details. |
| What are the ages of program participants? |
| Participants will range from U7 – U15. |
| Is there transportation available for any camps? |
| Transportation options are available at NYC Winter & Summer camps. (Drop off/Pick up available from East and West Side of NYC. Please call office for further information) |
| Can I be scouted to the Academy by attending NYCFC Youth Programs? |
| Yes, attending NYCFC programs is a great way to be scouted for our Academy teams. |
| Does the NYCFC Academy have Open ID Evaluations? |
| Yes, the Academy has Open ID Evaluations throughout the year. These will be advertised on our social media platforms with registration listed on www.nycfc.com/camps |
A complete list of NYCFC Youth Program FAQs can be found by clicking here.
NYCFC Youth Affiliates
The New York City FC Youth Affiliate Program is designed to provide soccer technical support and assistance to a select group of clubs from the New York Metropolitan Area. The program utilizes the technical expertise of New York City FC’s sporting department to give Youth Affiliate Clubs an enhanced ability to develop their youth talent by supporting their coaching methodology and club structure.
The affiliation with New York City FC offers a clear pathway for the local youth soccer community to reach the highest level of competition, providing each access to the invaluable resources and expertise of Major League Soccer’s 20th team.
| Downtown United SC |
| Founded: 1982 Location: Manhattan Ages: Boys & Girls Ages: 4-23 Coaches: 75 Participants: 1,150 |
| Manhattan Soccer Club |
| Founded: 1994 Location: Manhattan Ages: Boys & Girls Ages: 3-23 Coaches: 25 Participants: 1,500 |
| Metropolitan Oval |
| Founded: 1925 Location: Brooklyn/Queens/Long Island Ages: Boys Ages: 4-18 Coaches: 18 Participants: 400 |
| TSF Academy |
| Founded: 2005 Location: New Jersey Ages: Boys & Girls Ages: 3-23 Coaches: 25 Participants: 1,500 |
| World Class FC |
| Founded: 2009 Location: Rockland County Ages: Boys & Girls Ages: 8-18 Coaches: 30 Participants: 800 |
| SUSA FC |
| Founded: 2001 Location: Long Island Ages: Boys & Girls Ages: 2-20 Coaches: 60 Participants: 2,000 |
NYCFC Hosting Program
NYCFC is in need of a small number of high-quality, welcoming families that have a comfortable home to provide accommodation for an Academy player. Players require a private bedroom, transportation and daily nutritious meals.
If you think hosting an Academy player is right for your family, complete an application by clicking here.
New York City FC Recruitment Trials
At the time of this writing, there is no official publishing’s on New York City FC trials. Please come back at a later date while we monitor this club or click here to visit their official news section.
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New York City FC Colors & Badge
New York City FC’s colors are primarily sky blue, navy blue, and white. These colors reflect the club’s association with Manchester City FC, which also sports sky blue as its primary color, indicating the partnership between the two clubs. The navy blue and white accents complement the sky blue and are also a nod to the New York Yankees, the other significant partner in the club’s ownership. These colors are used throughout NYCFC’s branding, from their home and away kits to other club merchandise and paraphernalia.
The badge of New York City FC is a circular crest that combines several elements representing New York City and the club’s ties to its owners. The badge features the interlocking letters “NYC,” prominently displayed in the center, symbolizing the club’s identity and its home city. The pentagon shape behind the letters is inspired by the iconic New York City subway token, connecting the club to the city’s history and everyday life. Around the perimeter of the circle, the words “New York City Football Club” encircle the core elements, establishing the club’s full name and its commitment to soccer in NYC. The entire design is encapsulated within a circular badge, which helps to give it a classic and timeless look, suitable for representing the diverse and dynamic nature of New York City.
New York City FC Kit
New York City FC’s kit primarily reflects the club’s colors of sky blue, navy blue, and white. Over the years, these colors have been incorporated into their kits in various designs, maintaining a consistent identity that resonates with their branding and their fans.
The home kit typically features sky blue as the dominant color, often paired with white and navy blue accents. This design pays homage to the relationship with Manchester City FC, as sky blue is also Manchester City’s primary color. The home jerseys often have a clean, sleek design, with the club’s badge prominently displayed on the chest, along with the sponsor’s logo and the adidas logo, as adidas is the kit manufacturer for all MLS clubs.
The away kits vary more from season to season but usually incorporate the navy blue and white colors more prominently, often in designs that pay tribute to New York City itself. For example, past away kits have featured patterns or elements inspired by the city’s architecture, culture, or history. These kits serve as a way for the club to showcase different aspects of their identity and connection to the city, beyond just their primary sky blue color.
In addition to the home and away kits, NYCFC, like most soccer teams, occasionally releases third or special edition kits. These are often used for cup competitions or special occasions and can feature alternative colors or designs, providing a fresh and different look while still maintaining elements of the club’s core identity and color scheme.
The kits are not just about colors and designs; they also feature the club’s badge, the kit manufacturer’s logo, and the sponsor’s logos, all integral parts of modern soccer kits. These elements come together to create the full kit, representing the team’s identity and affiliations both on and off the field.
New York City FC Stadium
New York City FC’s home kits typically feature the club’s primary color of sky blue, often accented with navy blue and white. The design aligns with the club’s identity and colors, reflecting the partnership with Manchester City FC. Over the seasons, the home jerseys have seen variations in the design, such as different patterns or accents in navy blue or white, but the dominant sky blue remains a constant feature. The away kits usually offer a different look, often utilizing the darker navy blue or other colors that still align with the club’s overall color scheme. These kits also feature the club’s badge and the logos of sponsors, along with the manufacturer’s logo.
As for the stadium, New York City FC has faced challenges securing a permanent, soccer-specific home ground. Since its inception, NYCFC has primarily played its home games at Yankee Stadium, located in the Bronx. Yankee Stadium is primarily a baseball stadium, home to the New York Yankees, and the soccer configuration leads to a smaller, narrower pitch than standard soccer stadiums, with some sightlines and seating arrangements less than ideal for soccer. The unique dimensions and dual-sport use have been subjects of discussion among fans and analysts.
The club has been actively searching for a location to build a dedicated soccer-specific stadium within New York City. This endeavor has been complicated by the city’s dense urban environment, real estate prices, and various logistical and community concerns. However, NYCFC remains committed to finding a long-term home that can serve the needs of the team and its supporters, enhancing the matchday experience and solidifying the club’s presence in the city. As of my last update, the club was still exploring options and negotiating potential sites for a new stadium, but no definitive solution had been finalized.
New York City FC Club Culture
New York City FC’s club culture is shaped by its unique position in the diverse and bustling landscape of New York City. The club aims to reflect the city’s dynamic and varied cultural makeup, drawing fans from all five boroughs and beyond, each bringing their own traditions and energy to the fan base. This diversity is a cornerstone of NYCFC’s identity, fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment for all supporters.
Supporter Groups: The club’s supporter culture is anchored by several independent groups, the most prominent being The Third Rail, which was established shortly after the club’s announcement. These groups are known for their passionate support, colorful displays, and vocal backing of the team during matches. They organize events, marches to the stadium, and community activities, helping to build a sense of community and belonging among fans.
Community Engagement: NYCFC places a strong emphasis on community involvement and engagement. The club runs various programs aimed at supporting local communities, promoting youth soccer, and fostering social responsibility. These initiatives not only help to strengthen the bond between the club and the city but also emphasize the club’s commitment to making a positive impact beyond the soccer field.
Youth Development: NYCFC has invested significantly in youth development, aiming to cultivate local talent and provide pathways for young players to progress to professional soccer. The club’s academy and youth programs are designed to identify and nurture promising players, reflecting the club’s long-term vision for growth and sustainability.
Rivalries: The culture of NYCFC is also marked by its rivalries, most notably with the New York Red Bulls. Matches between the two teams, known as the Hudson River Derby, are highly anticipated events that showcase the intensity and passion of New York soccer fans. These derbies are not only important for bragging rights but also serve to galvanize the fan base and create memorable moments in the club’s history.
Global Influence: Being associated with Manchester City FC and the City Football Group, NYCFC benefits from a global network that influences its approach to football, business, and community initiatives. This connection provides the club with access to resources, expertise, and a worldwide fan base, enhancing its profile and approach to the game.
Overall, the culture of New York City FC is a reflection of its vibrant home city – diverse, energetic, and community-oriented. The club continues to grow and evolve, fostering a strong connection with its fans while contributing to the broader soccer landscape in New York and the United States.
New York City
New York City FC’s home city is, of course, New York City – an iconic global metropolis known for its immense cultural, financial, and historical significance. New York City is comprised of five boroughs: Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, The Bronx, and Staten Island, each with its unique character and communities. This diversity and vibrancy are mirrored in the fan base and culture of NYCFC.
Cultural Melting Pot: New York City is often described as a cultural melting pot, home to a vast array of ethnicities, languages, and traditions. This diversity is reflected in the fanbase of NYCFC, where fans from different backgrounds come together to support the team, bringing a rich tapestry of cultural expressions to the stands, from music and food to flags and chants.
Sports Landscape: NYC is also a major sports city, with a long and storied history in various sports. Apart from NYCFC and the New York Red Bulls in soccer, the city is home to famous teams like the New York Yankees (MLB), New York Mets (MLB), New York Knicks (NBA), Brooklyn Nets (NBA), New York Rangers (NHL), and New York Islanders (NHL). The competitive sports environment contributes to the passionate support NYCFC receives, as the club aims to carve out its own legacy in the city’s rich sporting history.
Economic and Media Hub: As a financial and media capital, New York City offers NYCFC unique opportunities for partnerships, sponsorships, and media exposure. The city’s global stature helps attract international players and coaches, enhancing the club’s profile and competitive edge.
Urban Challenges: Hosting a soccer team in such a densely populated urban environment comes with its challenges, most notably finding suitable space for a soccer-specific stadium. The quest for a permanent home for NYCFC reflects the broader challenges of urban development in New York City, including real estate prices, zoning laws, and community relations.
Community Engagement: NYCFC leverages its location in New York City to engage with local communities through outreach programs, youth development initiatives, and charity events. The club aims to be an active participant in the city’s cultural and social life, contributing to local causes and using soccer as a tool for positive impact.
Global City, Global Fans: New York City’s status as a global city also benefits NYCFC, attracting fans from around the world and fostering an international fan base. The city’s tourism and global connections mean that home matches can attract visitors from across the globe, adding to the club’s diverse and inclusive atmosphere.
In summary, New York City’s unique blend of diversity, culture, and global prominence significantly shapes the identity and culture of NYCFC. The club embodies the spirit of the city, striving to represent its rich mosaic of communities while facing the inherent challenges of operating in such a dynamic urban environment.
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