LAFC CLUB GUIDE
History, Stadium, Players, and More!
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Los Angeles FC
Los Angeles Football Club, commonly referred to as LAFC, is an American professional soccer team based in Los Angeles, California. The club competes in Major League Soccer (MLS) as a member club of the league’s Western Conference.
Los Angeles FC History
Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC) is an American professional soccer team based in Los Angeles, California. The team was established on October 30, 2014, as an expansion team of Major League Soccer (MLS), and began play in the 2018 season. LAFC was created to replace Chivas USA, another Los Angeles-based MLS team that had dissolved that year. The team’s establishment was led by a diverse and high-profile group of owners, including sports legends, entertainment figures, and business tycoons.
From the outset, LAFC aimed to build a strong connection with the city of Los Angeles and its diverse communities. The club adopted the colors black and gold, symbolizing the glamour and grit of the city. The team’s crest, featuring a winged LA monogram, was designed to embody the soaring spirit of Los Angeles. The construction of the Banc of California Stadium in the heart of Los Angeles, specifically in the Exposition Park neighborhood, provided a state-of-the-art home for the team and a gathering place for fans. The stadium, which opened in April 2018, quickly became known for its intimate atmosphere and close views of the action on the field.
LAFC made a significant impact in its inaugural season, setting multiple MLS records for an expansion team. Under the guidance of head coach Bob Bradley, a seasoned figure in American soccer, the team showcased an attractive, attacking style of play. LAFC finished the 2018 regular season with a record-breaking number of points for a first-year team and qualified for the MLS Cup playoffs, although they were eliminated in the first round. Forward Carlos Vela, the team’s first designated player and captain, emerged as one of the league’s standout stars, contributing significantly to the team’s offensive prowess.
The 2019 season saw LAFC build on their inaugural success, asserting themselves as one of the dominant forces in the league. The team finished the regular season with the best record, winning the Supporters’ Shield—an award given to the MLS team with the highest point total during the regular season. LAFC set records for points in a season and goals scored, showcasing a potent attack led by Vela, who won the MLS Most Valuable Player (MVP) award after setting a new record for most goals in a season. Despite their regular-season success, LAFC’s playoff run ended in the conference finals, marking a disappointing conclusion to an otherwise stellar campaign.
In the following years, LAFC continued to be a competitive force in MLS, although they faced challenges, including injuries to key players and the disruptions caused by the pandemic. The team remained committed to its attacking philosophy and passionate fan base, known as the “3252” in reference to the number of seats in their supporters’ section. LAFC’s influence extended beyond the field, as they became known for their community engagement and efforts to promote social justice.
LAFC continues to strive for success in MLS and international competitions. The team has become a symbol of Los Angeles’ diverse cultural landscape and a source of pride for the city’s soccer fans. With a strong foundation, a dedicated fan base, and a commitment to excellence on and off the field, LAFC looks to maintain its status as one of the leading clubs in American soccer. The story of LAFC is still being written, but it has already left an indelible mark on the landscape of MLS and the broader soccer community in the United States.
LA FC Youth Development Academy
Academy Teams
LAFC launched its Youth Academy in 2016 with one fully-funded U-12 USSDA academy team. The Academy has expanded to four teams from U12 – U15, and will be adding U17 for the 2019-2020 Academy season.
For up-to-date information on LAFC Academy new, please follow them on Facebook.
LAFC Tryout Trials
LAFC is inviting players on a trial basis as identified through their scouting network. If your player was born between 2002 and 2012 and is interested in being considered for a trial, please fill out the below form.
They will evaluate each application closely and extend invitations to selected applicants in their sole and final discretion. Invitations will be extended on the basis of the Academy’s timelines and needs, as well as the applicant’s demonstrated ability to compete at the appropriate level. Please note that not all applicants will be selected to participate in a trial.
To register for a trial, please click here.
Academy Staff
| Academy Director | Todd Saldaña |
| Director of Coaching / Academy Coach | Enrique Duran |
| Academy Manager | Tony Vigil |
| Academy Administrator | Christian M. Becerril |
| Academy Coach | Fabian Sandoval |
| Academy Coach | Juan Fresquez |
| Academy Coach | Marius Rus |
| Academy Coach | Abraham Jacinto |
| Academy Assistant Coach | Michael Jacobson |
| Academy Goalkeeper Assistant Coach | Adrian Padilla |
| Academy Sports Performance Coach | Jason Clifford |
| Academy Scout | Robert Vidrio |
| Academy Scout | Gabriel Lucatero |
| Academy Scout | Mario Ayala |
| Academy Scout | Hector Garcia |
LAFC Academy Camps
LAFC has a series of academy camps throughout the year. To sign up for upcoming academy camps, please click here.
LAFC Girls Academy
LAFC’s Girls Academy, LAFC Slammers Academy, is committed to developing world class players and people, and seeks to create dynamic teams that represent the diversity of our city. Our exciting partnership with Southern California-based Slammers FC creates one of the first Girls Development Academy Programs and is set to debut fall 2017. The program will focus on maximizing elite youth player development.
ABOUT SLAMMERS FC:
Slammers Futbol Club is a California nonprofit public benefit corporation headquartered in Newport Beach, California, USA. Our broad mission is to advance the cause of youth soccer for boys and girls through education, training, recreation, and local, national and international competition.
For more information, please click here.
LAFC Recruitment Trials
At the time of this writing, the LAFC Academy is inviting players on a trial basis as identified through their scouting network. To be considered for a trial, please click here to redirect to LAFC’s academy recruitment form for specific age group criteria.
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Los Angeles FC Colors & Badge
Los Angeles FC’s colors are primarily black and gold, which reflect the glamour and urban texture of Los Angeles. These colors were chosen to represent the success and aspirations of the city, with black symbolizing strength and power, and gold representing success and quality.
The LAFC badge is designed with a unique and symbolic approach. The central element is a winged “LA” monogram, which represents the city’s ambition and the guardian angel of Los Angeles, echoing the city’s historical nickname “The City of Angels.” This monogram is set against a shield shape, a traditional element in soccer crests worldwide, symbolizing unity and belonging. The top of the badge features a subtle nod to the city’s Art Deco heritage, a style known for its bold geometric shapes and lavish decoration, which is part of Los Angeles’s architectural history.
Overall, the LAFC colors and badge are deeply symbolic, designed to embody the spirit, culture, and ambitions of Los Angeles and its soccer fans.
Los Angeles FC Kit
Los Angeles FC’s kit design aligns with the team’s colors and identity. The primary kit typically features a predominately black design, reflecting one of the team’s main colors. This sleek, powerful base is usually accentuated with gold detailing, such as stripes, trim, or the team crest, to highlight the luxury and success associated with the color gold and the city of Los Angeles itself.
The secondary kit often serves as a contrast to the primary kit, usually featuring a lighter color palette. This could include white or grey, providing a base that complements the gold and black elements. These designs might incorporate patterns or textures inspired by the city’s culture, landmarks, or the team’s own branding elements.
Across both kits, the LAFC badge is prominently displayed over the heart, symbolizing the team’s pride and connection to the city. Sponsors’ logos and MLS patches are also typically featured, aligned with league and commercial requirements. The design of LAFC’s kits, like those of many soccer teams, may vary from season to season, with new elements introduced to keep the look fresh while maintaining the club’s core identity.
Los Angeles FC Stadium
Los Angeles FC’s home stadium is the Banc of California Stadium. It is located in the Exposition Park neighborhood of Los Angeles, making it centrally situated and accessible for fans across the city. The stadium represents a significant investment in the local community and the sport of soccer within Los Angeles.
Banc of California Stadium was specifically designed for soccer and opened its doors in April 2018. It features a sleek, modern design with an open-air structure that allows natural light to fill the arena. The design ensures that all attendees have excellent sightlines, with the seating arranged to create an intimate atmosphere that brings fans close to the action on the pitch. The stadium has a capacity of approximately 22,000, designed to generate a vibrant and energetic environment for fans and players alike.
The venue includes state-of-the-art facilities and amenities, such as luxury suites, club areas, and diverse food and beverage options, reflecting Los Angeles’ diverse culinary culture. Additionally, the stadium was constructed with sustainability in mind, incorporating environmentally friendly practices and materials.
Banc of California Stadium is not just a venue for LAFC matches; it also hosts concerts, cultural events, and other sporting events, making it a significant landmark and entertainment hub within Los Angeles. The stadium quickly became known for its electric atmosphere, particularly in the supporters’ section known as “The 3252,” which is dedicated to the most passionate and vocal LAFC fans, helping to create a formidable home advantage during matches.
Los Angeles FC Club Culture
Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC) boasts a vibrant and inclusive club culture that resonates deeply with its diverse fanbase and the city of Los Angeles as a whole. Here are some key aspects of LAFC’s club culture:
- Community Engagement: LAFC is deeply committed to engaging with the local community and supporting various initiatives throughout Los Angeles. The club actively participates in philanthropic endeavors, youth development programs, and community events, striving to make a positive impact beyond the soccer field. Through partnerships and outreach efforts, LAFC seeks to foster a sense of belonging and unity within the city.
- Supporter Culture: The heart of LAFC’s club culture lies within its passionate supporters’ community, known as the “3252.” Named after the number of seats in the North End supporters’ section at Banc of California Stadium, the 3252 is a diverse and dedicated group of fans who bring energy, chants, and tifos (large banners) to every home match. Their unwavering support creates an electric atmosphere at the stadium, contributing to the team’s home-field advantage.
- Identity and Representation: LAFC embraces the rich cultural tapestry of Los Angeles and strives to reflect this diversity in its identity and representation. The club’s black and gold colors symbolize the city’s glamour and grit, while the winged “LA” monogram in its badge pays homage to Los Angeles’ nickname as “The City of Angels.” LAFC’s roster features players from various backgrounds and nationalities, mirroring the multicultural makeup of the city itself.
- Innovation and Progression: As a relatively young club, LAFC prides itself on innovation and progression both on and off the field. From the state-of-the-art Banc of California Stadium to its forward-thinking approach to fan engagement and technology, the club continually seeks to push boundaries and set new standards in Major League Soccer (MLS) and beyond.
- Passion for Soccer: At its core, LAFC’s club culture revolves around a deep passion for the beautiful game. From the ownership group to the coaching staff, players, and fans, there is a shared love and dedication to soccer. This passion is evident in the team’s style of play, which emphasizes attacking, possession-based soccer, as well as in the fervor and enthusiasm displayed by supporters on matchdays.
Overall, LAFC’s club culture is characterized by its strong sense of community, inclusivity, and dedication to representing the diverse spirit of Los Angeles. Through its actions both on and off the field, the club continues to leave a lasting impression on the soccer landscape in the United States.
LAFC Home City
Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC) calls the vibrant and diverse city of Los Angeles its home. Located in Southern California, Los Angeles is the second-most populous city in the United States and is renowned for its cultural significance, entertainment industry, and melting pot of ethnicities and cultures.
LAFC’s choice to establish itself in Los Angeles was strategic, considering the city’s rich soccer history and passionate fan base. Soccer has long been popular in Los Angeles, with a thriving youth soccer scene and a deep-rooted tradition of supporting the sport at various levels. The city’s diverse population also provides a fertile ground for building a broad and inclusive fan base, reflective of the multicultural fabric of Los Angeles.
Banc of California Stadium, situated in the Exposition Park neighborhood near downtown Los Angeles, serves as the iconic home venue for LAFC. The stadium’s central location allows easy access for fans from across the city and provides stunning views of the downtown skyline. Beyond match days, Los Angeles offers a plethora of attractions, including world-class restaurants, cultural landmarks, and scenic beaches, making it an enticing destination for visitors and residents alike.
As a club deeply connected to its city, LAFC embraces the ethos and spirit of Los Angeles in its identity, colors, and community engagement efforts. The team’s black and gold colors symbolize the city’s glamour and diversity, while its commitment to community outreach reflects its desire to make a positive impact in the neighborhoods it calls home.
In summary, Los Angeles serves as the dynamic backdrop for LAFC’s journey, providing the club with a vibrant and diverse home base from which to grow and thrive in the world of soccer.
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