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Toyota Field, the home stadium for San Antonio FC, will host an Americas Rugby Championship (ARC) match between the USA Men’s Eagles and Uruguay on February 4, USA Rugby announced today. The match marks the first time in USA Rugby history that the Eagles will play international competition in the Alamo City. 

The Eagles will open their ARC home schedule against Uruguay in San Antonio, where international rugby will make its debut on the TifSport Bermuda Grass surface of Toyota Field. The match is one of only two Americas Rugby Championship games that will be played in the United States in 2017. The ARC is a five-week tournament, featuring six of North and South America’s top-ranked international rugby union teams.

“The Americas Rugby Championship match represents another opportunity to showcase Toyota Field and the versatility it holds as a sporting venue,” said Director of Toyota Field Dave Susi. “We are excited to host USA Rugby at Toyota Field as they take on Uruguay in what should prove to be an entertaining event.”

Last year, the Eagles traveled to South America to face Brazil and Uruguay, and now they will welcome the 36th and 19th ranked teams in the world to the Lone Star State to play in San Antonio and in Round Rock, Tex. just a week later.

The Eagles have played matches against international competition five times since 2012, garnering more than 75,000 fans in Austin and Houston. Additionally, the U.S. leg of the inaugural HSBC World Rugby Women’s Sevens Series was held in Texas in 2013, while the state has provided several championship contenders in senior club rugby in recent seasons.

A 8,200 seat stadium, Toyota Field opened in 2013 and has been the home of the USL club San Antonio FC since the spring of 2016. The facility was acquired in 2015 by the City of San Antonio and Bexar County, in partnership with Spurs Sports & Entertainment who now control all operations of the facility along with the neighboring STAR Soccer Complex. Toyota Field previously hosted Liga MX soccer clubs Cruz Azul and Atlas as part of the Moneygram SocioMX Tour last October.

Pre-sale tickets for the game at Toyota Field will be made available Wednesday, December 14, at 10 a.m. CT, before general on-sale begins Friday, December 16, at 10 am CT. Fans hoping to get early seats to the opening match are encouraged to sign up for the USA Rugby Ticket Pre-Sale Email list if they have not done so already to receive relevant pre-sale information. Upon release, tickets can be purchased via Ticketmaster.com.

Toyota Field, the home stadium for San Antonio FC, will host an Americas Rugby Championship (ARC) match between the USA Men’s Eagles and Uruguay on February 4, USA Rugby announced today. The match marks the first time in USA Rugby history that the Eagles will play international competition in the Alamo City. 

The Eagles will open their ARC home schedule against Uruguay in San Antonio, where international rugby will make its debut on the TifSport Bermuda Grass surface of Toyota Field. The match is one of only two Americas Rugby Championship games that will be played in the United States in 2017. The ARC is a five-week tournament, featuring six of North and South America’s top-ranked international rugby union teams.

“The Americas Rugby Championship match represents another opportunity to showcase Toyota Field and the versatility it holds as a sporting venue,” said Director of Toyota Field Dave Susi. “We are excited to host USA Rugby at Toyota Field as they take on Uruguay in what should prove to be an entertaining event.”

Last year, the Eagles traveled to South America to face Brazil and Uruguay, and now they will welcome the 36th and 19th ranked teams in the world to the Lone Star State to play in San Antonio and in Round Rock, Tex. just a week later.

The Eagles have played matches against international competition five times since 2012, garnering more than 75,000 fans in Austin and Houston. Additionally, the U.S. leg of the inaugural HSBC World Rugby Women’s Sevens Series was held in Texas in 2013, while the state has provided several championship contenders in senior club rugby in recent seasons.

A 8,200 seat stadium, Toyota Field opened in 2013 and has been the home of the USL club San Antonio FC since the spring of 2016. The facility was acquired in 2015 by the City of San Antonio and Bexar County, in partnership with Spurs Sports & Entertainment who now control all operations of the facility along with the neighboring STAR Soccer Complex. Toyota Field previously hosted Liga MX soccer clubs Cruz Azul and Atlas as part of the Moneygram SocioMX Tour last October.

Pre-sale tickets for the game at Toyota Field will be made available Wednesday, December 14, at 10 a.m. CT, before general on-sale begins Friday, December 16, at 10 am CT. Fans hoping to get early seats to the opening match are encouraged to sign up for the USA Rugby Ticket Pre-Sale Email list if they have not done so already to receive relevant pre-sale information. Upon release, tickets can be purchased via Ticketmaster.com.

San Antonio FC has expanded its Elite Training Program (ETP) to include the 2000-2003 boys birth year age groups, the club announced today. The club will continue offering ETP for the 2005 and 2006 boys birth year age groups which were established this Fall. The ETP program is a key component of the overall SAFC Pro Academy umbrella, and is designed to be another collaborative effort between San Antonio FC and all greater San Antonio area youth soccer clubs.

The ETP provides additional technical programming for players while they remain with their current clubs. For boys born in 2005 and 2006, the ETP will serve as an identification and development program for future SAFC Pro Academy teams at these age groups. For boys born in 2000, 2001, 2002 and 2003, the ETP will serve as a college showcase platform with multiple college coaches attending and observing training sessions over the course of the year. In addition, players from the ETP will have the opportunity to represent San Antonio FC when it hosts the USL Experience (USLX) in early April 2017.

All ID events and training sessions will be held at the STAR Soccer complex and be run by the San Antonio FC & SAFC Pro Academy technical staff.

More information on the ETP identification process can be found on here.

San Antonio FC has expanded its Elite Training Program (ETP) to include the 2000-2003 boys birth year age groups, the club announced today. The club will continue offering ETP for the 2005 and 2006 boys birth year age groups which were established this Fall. The ETP program is a key component of the overall SAFC Pro Academy umbrella, and is designed to be another collaborative effort between San Antonio FC and all greater San Antonio area youth soccer clubs.

The ETP provides additional technical programming for players while they remain with their current clubs. For boys born in 2005 and 2006, the ETP will serve as an identification and development program for future SAFC Pro Academy teams at these age groups. For boys born in 2000, 2001, 2002 and 2003, the ETP will serve as a college showcase platform with multiple college coaches attending and observing training sessions over the course of the year. In addition, players from the ETP will have the opportunity to represent San Antonio FC when it hosts the USL Experience (USLX) in early April 2017.

All ID events and training sessions will be held at the STAR Soccer complex and be run by the San Antonio FC & SAFC Pro Academy technical staff.

More information on the ETP identification process can be found on here.

The San Antonio FC Pro Academy will take on the Houston Dynamo Academy this Saturday. The match will be the second time the two teams meet this year, however this time around, the U-12 boys will have the opportunity to play at Toyota Field for the first time in SAFC Pro Academy history. The opportunity to play in a full-sized stadium is designed to familiarize the players with a professional atmosphere so that they are prepared to take the next steps in their career when the time comes.

Since the academy’s inception in April 2016, the SAFC boys have represented the club against quality clubs throughout all of Texas. Now, the team is excited to host an MLS academy in a professional environment, which will prove to be a milestone in the players’ growth with the club.

“The team’s first reaction was excitement, giddiness, and joy,” SAFC Pro Academy Director Nick Evans. “The boys were ball boys during USL games throughout the season, so being next to the field watching the first team play has been great for their development.

“Now they get the opportunity to play on the field and inside the stadium where they normally watch the first team play, and that’s very exciting for them. They are still young players in the U-12 age group, so giving them a feel for the bigger picture is something that excites the coaching staff as well.”

Playing at a venue like Toyota Field at such a young age plays a more important role than being just a ‘cool’ privilege. The opportunity to experience competitive play in a pro stadium can also be a huge motivation for young players, inspiring them to continue to aspire to reach their full potential as they progress through their soccer careers.

“This will be a day both sets of players remember for a very long time,” Evans said. “When working with young players on their journey, having that moment to remember can be a very powerful motivating moment for them as they move day-to-day towards their goals and ambitions. We want this experience to be one of many for them at Toyota Field.”

Along with Evans, San Antonio FC continues to strive to create a learning atmosphere for the academy players, ensuring to provide them the best resources available to push them towards success. A crucial part in shaping their mindset and attitude is providing top-class first-time experiences, such as allowing them to play in a full professional venue.

“We have said from the beginning that one of our main developmental objectives is to provide experiences and opportunities for the players that provide a unique development journey for them,” Evans said. “Allowing them to play inside the stadium presents a first time experience, such as having a changing room to prepare in, walking down the tunnel side by side to their opponent, playing on an immaculate surface inside a 8,500 seated soccer-specific stadium, and having family and friends watching in the stands.

We have a clear pathway for our players to the first team and our commitment as an organization to develop homegrown players for SAFC is significant. If we can have one of our academy players play for the first team someday, we want to ensure that the first time they get called in isn’t their first experience of being in the changing room and playing on the field.”

The Houston Dynamo Academy was established in 2007 and has been one of the leading youth programs in American soccer. Their U-12 team recently traveled to Spain, where they reached the quarter finals of the Arousa Football 7 tournament after facing academies from academies such as FC Porto, FC Barcelona and Ajax, among others.

“The Houston Dynamo are a very competitive program and that’s what we continually want for our players to have to experience playing against,” Evans said. “This weekend the players will have to make decisions quicker and execute actions quicker against a top-level opponent, as well as adjust to the new experience of playing inside the stadium. I am really excited for both programs’ players.”

The match against the Dynamo Academy will be a great learning experience for the SAFC Pro Academy players. The opportunity to play at Toyota Field will be a milestone in their careers, and the experience will be one they will surely remember and cherish as the boys continue to develop under the wing of San Antonio FC. The teams will play two matches, with kickoffs set for 1 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. Both games will be open to the public.

The San Antonio FC Pro Academy will take on the Houston Dynamo Academy this Saturday. The match will be the second time the two teams meet this year, however this time around, the U-12 boys will have the opportunity to play at Toyota Field for the first time in SAFC Pro Academy history. The opportunity to play in a full-sized stadium is designed to familiarize the players with a professional atmosphere so that they are prepared to take the next steps in their career when the time comes.

Since the academy’s inception in April 2016, the SAFC boys have represented the club against quality clubs throughout all of Texas. Now, the team is excited to host an MLS academy in a professional environment, which will prove to be a milestone in the players’ growth with the club.

“The team’s first reaction was excitement, giddiness, and joy,” SAFC Pro Academy Director Nick Evans. “The boys were ball boys during USL games throughout the season, so being next to the field watching the first team play has been great for their development.

“Now they get the opportunity to play on the field and inside the stadium where they normally watch the first team play, and that’s very exciting for them. They are still young players in the U-12 age group, so giving them a feel for the bigger picture is something that excites the coaching staff as well.”

Playing at a venue like Toyota Field at such a young age plays a more important role than being just a ‘cool’ privilege. The opportunity to experience competitive play in a pro stadium can also be a huge motivation for young players, inspiring them to continue to aspire to reach their full potential as they progress through their soccer careers.

“This will be a day both sets of players remember for a very long time,” Evans said. “When working with young players on their journey, having that moment to remember can be a very powerful motivating moment for them as they move day-to-day towards their goals and ambitions. We want this experience to be one of many for them at Toyota Field.”

Along with Evans, San Antonio FC continues to strive to create a learning atmosphere for the academy players, ensuring to provide them the best resources available to push them towards success. A crucial part in shaping their mindset and attitude is providing top-class first-time experiences, such as allowing them to play in a full professional venue.

“We have said from the beginning that one of our main developmental objectives is to provide experiences and opportunities for the players that provide a unique development journey for them,” Evans said. “Allowing them to play inside the stadium presents a first time experience, such as having a changing room to prepare in, walking down the tunnel side by side to their opponent, playing on an immaculate surface inside a 8,500 seated soccer-specific stadium, and having family and friends watching in the stands.

We have a clear pathway for our players to the first team and our commitment as an organization to develop homegrown players for SAFC is significant. If we can have one of our academy players play for the first team someday, we want to ensure that the first time they get called in isn’t their first experience of being in the changing room and playing on the field.”

The Houston Dynamo Academy was established in 2007 and has been one of the leading youth programs in American soccer. Their U-12 team recently traveled to Spain, where they reached the quarter finals of the Arousa Football 7 tournament after facing academies from academies such as FC Porto, FC Barcelona and Ajax, among others.

“The Houston Dynamo are a very competitive program and that’s what we continually want for our players to have to experience playing against,” Evans said. “This weekend the players will have to make decisions quicker and execute actions quicker against a top-level opponent, as well as adjust to the new experience of playing inside the stadium. I am really excited for both programs’ players.”

The match against the Dynamo Academy will be a great learning experience for the SAFC Pro Academy players. The opportunity to play at Toyota Field will be a milestone in their careers, and the experience will be one they will surely remember and cherish as the boys continue to develop under the wing of San Antonio FC. The teams will play two matches, with kickoffs set for 1 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. Both games will be open to the public.

SAFC Mailbag Volume 3

December 7, 2016

Welcome to the SAFC Mailbag. Each week starting on Monday, fans can submit their questions to San Antonio FC via the club’s social media channels. Then, on Wednesday of that week, the club will answer select questions from fans on www.sanantoniofc.com.

Be sure to continue submitting questions and yours could be answered in an upcoming edition of the SAFC Mailbag.

See below for this week’s SAFC Mailbag answers:

Jennifer Korzec via Facebook: Will there be any bus road trips to Rio Grande Valley in 2017?

www.sanantoniofc.com: Like we did during the 2016 season, there will be opportunities for SAFC supporters to travel to away matches at RGV via charter bus. Details for those trips will be released as we edge closer to the specific matches.  

 

Samuel Brownlee via Facebook: When are we going to get baby merchandise? I have a 5-month old who has gone her whole life without rocking any SAFC gear!!!!

www.sanantoniofc.com: Keep an eye out! We are always coming up with new merchandise ideas, and you can expect to be able to outfit your daughter in some SAFC threads in time for the 2017 season!

 

Thomas (@T_Hildebrand7) via Twitter: Any big clubs we could face for pre-season friendlies?

www.sanantoniofc.com: San Antonio FC will host preseason matches at Toyota Field once again in 2017. Although opponents are still being determined, the club expects it to be a mixture of professional teams and colleges from the surrounding areas. Unlike last season when preseason friendlies were closed to the public due to renovations at Toyota Field, supporters will have the opportunity to attend certain preseason matches in 2017.

 

Adam James Shifflett via Facebook: For us autograph collectors…why not make a team set?

www.sanantoniofc.com: We are always exploring new merchandise and gift ideas for the club. However, if you are interested in a team set of autographs, there’s no better way to achieve that goal than attending an SAFC match at Toyota Field. Most, if not all, of SAFC players sign autographs for our wonderful supporters following the conclusion of the game and their postgame duties. After a match or two, you should easily have your whole set.

 

Ryan Lord via Facebook: How many birds nest in Matthew Cardone's beard throughout the season? Does he feed them or do they just get the crumbs that get stuck?

www.sanantoniofc.com: Contrary to popular opinion, Matthew Cardone only housed one bird in his beard during the 2016 season. The Scissor-Tailed Flycatcher (Tyrannus forficatus), which is a native Texas bird, primarily lived in the bearded habitat during the USL season, however it recently migrated away from Matt during its winter, non-breeding months. Thankfully, since “Pete” was known for catching flies, he who reigns from the Chordata phylum, did not have to rely on Matt’s crumbs for subsistence.   

 

@SAFCGardeners via Twitter: When will the #ManBun trend among players go away?

www.sanantoniofc.com: You’ll probably need to ask a scientist.

SAFC Mailbag Volume 3

December 7, 2016

Welcome to the SAFC Mailbag. Each week starting on Monday, fans can submit their questions to San Antonio FC via the club’s social media channels. Then, on Wednesday of that week, the club will answer select questions from fans on www.sanantoniofc.com.

Be sure to continue submitting questions and yours could be answered in an upcoming edition of the SAFC Mailbag.

See below for this week’s SAFC Mailbag answers:

Jennifer Korzec via Facebook: Will there be any bus road trips to Rio Grande Valley in 2017?

www.sanantoniofc.com: Like we did during the 2016 season, there will be opportunities for SAFC supporters to travel to away matches at RGV via charter bus. Details for those trips will be released as we edge closer to the specific matches.  

 

Samuel Brownlee via Facebook: When are we going to get baby merchandise? I have a 5-month old who has gone her whole life without rocking any SAFC gear!!!!

www.sanantoniofc.com: Keep an eye out! We are always coming up with new merchandise ideas, and you can expect to be able to outfit your daughter in some SAFC threads in time for the 2017 season!

 

Thomas (@T_Hildebrand7) via Twitter: Any big clubs we could face for pre-season friendlies?

www.sanantoniofc.com: San Antonio FC will host preseason matches at Toyota Field once again in 2017. Although opponents are still being determined, the club expects it to be a mixture of professional teams and colleges from the surrounding areas. Unlike last season when preseason friendlies were closed to the public due to renovations at Toyota Field, supporters will have the opportunity to attend certain preseason matches in 2017.

 

Adam James Shifflett via Facebook: For us autograph collectors…why not make a team set?

www.sanantoniofc.com: We are always exploring new merchandise and gift ideas for the club. However, if you are interested in a team set of autographs, there’s no better way to achieve that goal than attending an SAFC match at Toyota Field. Most, if not all, of SAFC players sign autographs for our wonderful supporters following the conclusion of the game and their postgame duties. After a match or two, you should easily have your whole set.

 

Ryan Lord via Facebook: How many birds nest in Matthew Cardone’s beard throughout the season? Does he feed them or do they just get the crumbs that get stuck?

www.sanantoniofc.com: Contrary to popular opinion, Matthew Cardone only housed one bird in his beard during the 2016 season. The Scissor-Tailed Flycatcher (Tyrannus forficatus), which is a native Texas bird, primarily lived in the bearded habitat during the USL season, however it recently migrated away from Matt during its winter, non-breeding months. Thankfully, since “Pete” was known for catching flies, he who reigns from the Chordata phylum, did not have to rely on Matt’s crumbs for subsistence.   

 

@SAFCGardeners via Twitter: When will the #ManBun trend among players go away?

www.sanantoniofc.com: You’ll probably need to ask a scientist.

For some athletes, winning is everything. It wouldn’t be far-fetched to think that winning a conference title would encourage a player to stay put with his successful team, but for midfielder Kris Tyrpak, the chance to be close to his family once again while working with a world-class organization with great ambitions proved to be worth more. His desire for a new challenge led him back to his home state of Texas, where he joined forces with San Antonio FC.

Tyrpak most recently spent time with fellow USL expansion side Swope Park Rangers, who clinched the USL Western Conference Championship and reached the USL Cup final in their inaugural season. Despite a successful run in Kansas City, however, the midfielder looks forward to a new challenge in the Alamo City.

“When I spoke with Coach Powell, everything he said lined up exactly with what I want to do,” Tyrpak said. “I want to win a championship. He has aspirations to get there and win it, and I do as well.”

Tyrpak’s ambition has driven him to several clubs in the past few years. The 24-year-old was originally drafted by Chivas USA in the third round of the 2014 MLS SuperDraft before transitioning to the San Jose Earthquakes. He then ventured to the United Soccer League, where he signed with the Austin Aztex prior to joining the now-defunct San Antonio Scorpions in the NASL.

Though he has played for several quality organizations throughout his career, the opportunity to join Spurs Sports & Entertainment was one Tyrpak couldn’t pass up. After all, the legacy of the San Antonio Spurs in the NBA and the organization’s status as a world-leader in the sports industry provides enormous potential for SAFC in its early years.

“[SS&E] is incredible,” Tyrpak said. “Everything is so fluid and it looks like it runs so smoothly because all the parts of it move so well with their system. To have the backing of one of the best organizations in the world is huge.”

From a personal standpoint, Tyrpak liked the opportunity to come to San Antonio so he could be close to his family once again. His hometown of Dripping Springs is less than an hour’s drive away from Toyota Field, and after his previous stints in Austin and San Antonio, Tyrpak looks forward to playing in front of a Texas crowd again.

“It’s close to home, so that’s great,” Tyrpak said. “My family lives 45 minutes away from the stadium, so it’s just a good place to come home and be close to my family and play in front of support who I’ve kind of played in front of before, though I’ve heard they’ve taken a step up.”

Soccer supporters in San Antonio tend to make incredibly positive impressions on players who come to the Alamo City. Most (if not all) players who have been part of the SAFC roster have mentioned the great support from fans at some point. The fans here prove their love for their team day in and day out, supporting the club through highs and lows no matter what.

The same can be said of fans’ support for individual players, and such has been the case for Tyrpak. When the Scorpions ceased operations and Tyrpak made the move to Swope Park Rangers, fans in San Antonio continued to support him through thick and thin. Despite being in the opposite team’s lineup during the SAFC inaugural home opener, Tyrpak heard cheers and encouragement coming from SAFC fans. Now, he wants to repay that support with results on the pitch.

“The fans here were very receptive to me before,” Tyrpak said. “I enjoyed playing in front of them and I think they liked having me as a player, so I’m hoping to continue that relationship this year. I’m hoping to bag a couple of goals and win a championship, that way they’ll be really happy.

“[Having their support] is huge, it’s a lot of the reason why we play the game. If I have fans cheering for me from an opposing team in the same conference and they’re rooting for me, it goes to show that hopefully I’m doing something right on the field.”

Tyrpak’s return to his home state is a great story in the making. His skills and experience will surely add a spark to the San Antonio FC attack, and his ambition paired with that of the club will make for a competitive squad that will fight to earn results and accomplish big things in 2017.

“I want to help the team get into the playoffs this year,” Tyrpak said. “With the injuries they had last year, things just didn’t go their way. Hopefully this year we can change that. Once you get into the playoffs anything can happen, we saw that [at Swope] this past year, so hopefully we can make something similar happen in San Antonio.”

For some athletes, winning is everything. It wouldn’t be far-fetched to think that winning a conference title would encourage a player to stay put with his successful team, but for midfielder Kris Tyrpak, the chance to be close to his family once again while working with a world-class organization with great ambitions proved to be worth more. His desire for a new challenge led him back to his home state of Texas, where he joined forces with San Antonio FC.

Tyrpak most recently spent time with fellow USL expansion side Swope Park Rangers, who clinched the USL Western Conference Championship and reached the USL Cup final in their inaugural season. Despite a successful run in Kansas City, however, the midfielder looks forward to a new challenge in the Alamo City.

“When I spoke with Coach Powell, everything he said lined up exactly with what I want to do,” Tyrpak said. “I want to win a championship. He has aspirations to get there and win it, and I do as well.”

Tyrpak’s ambition has driven him to several clubs in the past few years. The 24-year-old was originally drafted by Chivas USA in the third round of the 2014 MLS SuperDraft before transitioning to the San Jose Earthquakes. He then ventured to the United Soccer League, where he signed with the Austin Aztex prior to joining the now-defunct San Antonio Scorpions in the NASL.

Though he has played for several quality organizations throughout his career, the opportunity to join Spurs Sports & Entertainment was one Tyrpak couldn’t pass up. After all, the legacy of the San Antonio Spurs in the NBA and the organization’s status as a world-leader in the sports industry provides enormous potential for SAFC in its early years.

“[SS&E] is incredible,” Tyrpak said. “Everything is so fluid and it looks like it runs so smoothly because all the parts of it move so well with their system. To have the backing of one of the best organizations in the world is huge.”

From a personal standpoint, Tyrpak liked the opportunity to come to San Antonio so he could be close to his family once again. His hometown of Dripping Springs is less than an hour’s drive away from Toyota Field, and after his previous stints in Austin and San Antonio, Tyrpak looks forward to playing in front of a Texas crowd again.

“It’s close to home, so that’s great,” Tyrpak said. “My family lives 45 minutes away from the stadium, so it’s just a good place to come home and be close to my family and play in front of support who I’ve kind of played in front of before, though I’ve heard they’ve taken a step up.”

Soccer supporters in San Antonio tend to make incredibly positive impressions on players who come to the Alamo City. Most (if not all) players who have been part of the SAFC roster have mentioned the great support from fans at some point. The fans here prove their love for their team day in and day out, supporting the club through highs and lows no matter what.

The same can be said of fans’ support for individual players, and such has been the case for Tyrpak. When the Scorpions ceased operations and Tyrpak made the move to Swope Park Rangers, fans in San Antonio continued to support him through thick and thin. Despite being in the opposite team’s lineup during the SAFC inaugural home opener, Tyrpak heard cheers and encouragement coming from SAFC fans. Now, he wants to repay that support with results on the pitch.

“The fans here were very receptive to me before,” Tyrpak said. “I enjoyed playing in front of them and I think they liked having me as a player, so I’m hoping to continue that relationship this year. I’m hoping to bag a couple of goals and win a championship, that way they’ll be really happy.

“[Having their support] is huge, it’s a lot of the reason why we play the game. If I have fans cheering for me from an opposing team in the same conference and they’re rooting for me, it goes to show that hopefully I’m doing something right on the field.”

Tyrpak’s return to his home state is a great story in the making. His skills and experience will surely add a spark to the San Antonio FC attack, and his ambition paired with that of the club will make for a competitive squad that will fight to earn results and accomplish big things in 2017.

“I want to help the team get into the playoffs this year,” Tyrpak said. “With the injuries they had last year, things just didn’t go their way. Hopefully this year we can change that. Once you get into the playoffs anything can happen, we saw that [at Swope] this past year, so hopefully we can make something similar happen in San Antonio.”

San Antonio FC has signed midfielder and Texas native Kris Tyrpak for the 2017 USL season pending USL and federation approval, the club announced today. Per club policy, terms of the contract were not disclosed.

Tyrpak joins San Antonio FC from USL club Swope Park Rangers where he helped lead his team to the USL Cup in 2016 after securing the Western Conference Championship. Tyrpak scored seven goals and recorded one assist in 28 games (1,751 minutes) with Swope this season before adding three goals and an assist in 225 minutes over three playoff matches.

The 24-year-old previously spent time in the Alamo City with the now-defunct San Antonio Scorpions (NASL) in 2015. Tyrpak scored two goals in just six matches (516 minutes) with the Scorpions, including an impressive 30-yard volley at Toyota Field in October of 2015.

“We are pleased to add Kris to our attacking group of players for 2017,” said SAFC Head Coach Darren Powell. “Kris is an established player with MLS and USL experience who demonstrates good work ethic and character. We expect him to come into our team and contribute straight away.”

Originally from Dripping Springs, Tyrpak was drafted by Chivas USA (MLS) in the third round (40th overall) of the 2014 MLS SuperDraft. The forward went on to make nine appearances for Chivas, scoring one goal and recording an assist before being selected by the San Jose Earthquakes in the 2014 MLS Dispersal Draft following the folding of Chivas USA. Following his stint with San Jose, Tyrpak signed with the Austin Aztex (USL) where he scored nine goals in 27 appearances prior to joining the Scorpions at the end of the 2015 USL season.

“San Antonio FC is a great club with a great coaching staff that has a winning mentality and a desire to win championships,” said Tyrpak. “Toyota Field is also a great stadium that is always packed with great fans. It was an easy decision for me to join SAFC. I like the direction the club is headed and it only promises to get better. I am looking forward to being a part of that process.”

Tyrpak attended Houston Baptist University, playing four years of collegiate soccer for the Huskies from 2010-13. Following his senior season with HBU where he scored five goals and recorded seven assists, Tyrpak was named to the Western Athletic Conference First Team. Following his freshman season in 2010, he was named Athletic Soccer Conference Rookie of the Year.

During his time in college, Tyrpak played in his first stint with the Austin Aztex (PDL) where he scored 19 goals in 27 appearances from 2012-13.

San Antonio FC is currently prepping for its second season in the USL, which is scheduled to kick off in the spring. Fans interested in season tickets can contact the SAFC sales office at 210-444-5MLS or visit www.sanantoniofc.com

Supporters can follow the club by liking San Antonio FC on Facebook, as well as following the team on Twitter (@SanAntonioFC), Instagram (@sanantoniofc) and Snapchat (SanAntonioFC).

San Antonio FC has signed midfielder and Texas native Kris Tyrpak for the 2017 USL season pending USL and federation approval, the club announced today. Per club policy, terms of the contract were not disclosed.

Tyrpak joins San Antonio FC from USL club Swope Park Rangers where he helped lead his team to the USL Cup in 2016 after securing the Western Conference Championship. Tyrpak scored seven goals and recorded one assist in 28 games (1,751 minutes) with Swope this season before adding three goals and an assist in 225 minutes over three playoff matches.

The 24-year-old previously spent time in the Alamo City with the now-defunct San Antonio Scorpions (NASL) in 2015. Tyrpak scored two goals in just six matches (516 minutes) with the Scorpions, including an impressive 30-yard volley at Toyota Field in October of 2015.

“We are pleased to add Kris to our attacking group of players for 2017,” said SAFC Head Coach Darren Powell. “Kris is an established player with MLS and USL experience who demonstrates good work ethic and character. We expect him to come into our team and contribute straight away.”

Originally from Dripping Springs, Tyrpak was drafted by Chivas USA (MLS) in the third round (40th overall) of the 2014 MLS SuperDraft. The forward went on to make nine appearances for Chivas, scoring one goal and recording an assist before being selected by the San Jose Earthquakes in the 2014 MLS Dispersal Draft following the folding of Chivas USA. Following his stint with San Jose, Tyrpak signed with the Austin Aztex (USL) where he scored nine goals in 27 appearances prior to joining the Scorpions at the end of the 2015 USL season.

“San Antonio FC is a great club with a great coaching staff that has a winning mentality and a desire to win championships,” said Tyrpak. “Toyota Field is also a great stadium that is always packed with great fans. It was an easy decision for me to join SAFC. I like the direction the club is headed and it only promises to get better. I am looking forward to being a part of that process.”

Tyrpak attended Houston Baptist University, playing four years of collegiate soccer for the Huskies from 2010-13. Following his senior season with HBU where he scored five goals and recorded seven assists, Tyrpak was named to the Western Athletic Conference First Team. Following his freshman season in 2010, he was named Athletic Soccer Conference Rookie of the Year.

During his time in college, Tyrpak played in his first stint with the Austin Aztex (PDL) where he scored 19 goals in 27 appearances from 2012-13.

San Antonio FC is currently prepping for its second season in the USL, which is scheduled to kick off in the spring. Fans interested in season tickets can contact the SAFC sales office at 210-444-5MLS or visit www.sanantoniofc.com

Supporters can follow the club by liking San Antonio FC on Facebook, as well as following the team on Twitter (@SanAntonioFC), Instagram (@sanantoniofc) and Snapchat (SanAntonioFC).

San Antonio FC forward Franck Tayou has kept busy during the USL offseason by spending time playing professional indoor soccer for the Soles de Sonora in the Major Arena Soccer League. Tayou played for Sonora prior to joining SAFC in June 2016, and earned MVP honors after scoring 47 goals and recording 15 assists in 20 games in 2015.

Tayou headed back to the MASL following the conclusion of the 2016 USL season, and returned to his stellar form in a matter of weeks. He has dominated the league since his return, scoring 17 goals and recording seven assists in just five matches. The forward also currently leads the league in goals scored, points (24), and points per game average (4.80). In addition, the 26-year-old is tied for most game-winning goals in the league (2), and has earned Team of the Week honors on three occasions.

The Cameroon native has also led Sonora to impressive victories, most recently in the 15-3 thrashing against Atletico Baja, where he scored five goals and recorded one assist. Tayou also led Sonora to victory in an 18-15 thriller during which he also scored five goals.

Tayou’s form has been nothing short of impressive. The forward continues to work hard to maintain his fitness and form in the MASL as he prepares to return to the Alamo City for the upcoming USL season, and if his performances for Sonora are a preview of what’s to come, one thing is certain: Franck the Tank will be a force to be reckoned with in 2017.

San Antonio FC forward Franck Tayou has kept busy during the USL offseason by spending time playing professional indoor soccer for the Soles de Sonora in the Major Arena Soccer League. Tayou played for Sonora prior to joining SAFC in June 2016, and earned MVP honors after scoring 47 goals and recording 15 assists in 20 games in 2015.

Tayou headed back to the MASL following the conclusion of the 2016 USL season, and returned to his stellar form in a matter of weeks. He has dominated the league since his return, scoring 17 goals and recording seven assists in just five matches. The forward also currently leads the league in goals scored, points (24), and points per game average (4.80). In addition, the 26-year-old is tied for most game-winning goals in the league (2), and has earned Team of the Week honors on three occasions.

The Cameroon native has also led Sonora to impressive victories, most recently in the 15-3 thrashing against Atletico Baja, where he scored five goals and recorded one assist. Tayou also led Sonora to victory in an 18-15 thriller during which he also scored five goals.

Tayou’s form has been nothing short of impressive. The forward continues to work hard to maintain his fitness and form in the MASL as he prepares to return to the Alamo City for the upcoming USL season, and if his performances for Sonora are a preview of what’s to come, one thing is certain: Franck the Tank will be a force to be reckoned with in 2017.

Yet another crucial piece of the San Antonio FC inaugural squad is set to return in 2017. Defender Stephen McCarthy will return to the club next season after a successful campaign that was ended prematurely due to injury. After spending time playing for clubs in top leagues such as Major League Soccer and the Veikkausliga (Finland), McCarthy looks forward to continuing to build a bright future with San Antonio FC.

A big factor in McCarthy’s decision to stay in the Alamo City was staying close to friends and family in his home state of Texas. Furthermore, the 28-year-old saw the opportunity to continue working with the club and its parent organization, Spurs Sports & Entertainment, to reach their aspirations to become an MLS club.

“San Antonio FC has all the resources to make it to the top league,” McCarthy said. “Having played in MLS, I can attest to that first-hand. I also think San Antonio will be able to make that jump because there are so many good people working at the organization, and that’s important.”

McCarthy has been a prominent figure in the club since its early days. The center-back was the first defensive player to ever sign for SAFC, and started in all 19 of his appearances in 2016, tallying two goals and recording one assist before suffering an arm injury that kept him out for the last eight matches of the season.

Despite his prominence in the lineup and the team’s solid performances throughout their inaugural campaign, McCarthy isn’t shy about admitting that there’s plenty of room for improvement. One of his top objectives for the team in 2017 is to capitalize on opportunities and not let results slip away.

“As a group we need to win, that’s really all it comes down to,” McCarthy said. “There were a lot of games last year where we should have taken more points than we did, and we would’ve had a pretty successful year had we done so, so I think this year is about getting the job done.”

Another reason McCarthy is determined to get better results next year is to repay the affection that SAFC fans showed for the club in its inaugural year. After experiencing supporter groups in the top leagues of American and Finnish soccer, McCarthy truly appreciates the love and passion that San Antonio fans bring to Toyota Field, and he feels the team should respond with positive results.

“The fans here are incredible,” McCarthy said. “No matter what happened, even if we lost games, they always had our backs. That’s not true of supporters in all other places, so it’s very important to me and the whole team to feel the love from the stands. It was incredible, there were a few games that were close to selling out, and we had people’s support no matter what. I love the fans.”

McCarthy previously spent three years playing for the New England Revolution, where he was named the Revs’ Best Defender in 2012 as voted by the team’s media. In Finland, he played for Kuopion Palloseura (KuPS), a historical five-time champion club in the country’s premier league who holds the record for most consecutive years in the top-flight.

The defender opted to move back to Texas in 2016, which led him to San Antonio FC ahead of the club’s inaugural season. Since then he has adopted a leadership role in the squad, with his experience aiding him to lead his teammates by example. McCarthy’s prominence in the game even earned him a place in one of the four player banners that hang on the west side of the stadium, along with inaugural season teammates Rafa Castillo, Fejiro Okiomah, and Michael Reed.

With the 2017 season quickly approaching, McCarthy is focused on getting fit and preparing for the year two in the club’s history. Including him, San Antonio FC has now announced nine players on next season’s roster, and McCarthy is looking forward to beginning a new chapter in the club’s history.

“It’s incredible and I’m very excited for the upcoming season,” McCarthy said. “There are so many good players on the roster already. We’re going to win games next year, and we want to bring a championship to San Antonio.”

Yet another crucial piece of the San Antonio FC inaugural squad is set to return in 2017. Defender Stephen McCarthy will return to the club next season after a successful campaign that was ended prematurely due to injury. After spending time playing for clubs in top leagues such as Major League Soccer and the Veikkausliga (Finland), McCarthy looks forward to continuing to build a bright future with San Antonio FC.

A big factor in McCarthy’s decision to stay in the Alamo City was staying close to friends and family in his home state of Texas. Furthermore, the 28-year-old saw the opportunity to continue working with the club and its parent organization, Spurs Sports & Entertainment, to reach their aspirations to become an MLS club.

“San Antonio FC has all the resources to make it to the top league,” McCarthy said. “Having played in MLS, I can attest to that first-hand. I also think San Antonio will be able to make that jump because there are so many good people working at the organization, and that’s important.”

McCarthy has been a prominent figure in the club since its early days. The center-back was the first defensive player to ever sign for SAFC, and started in all 19 of his appearances in 2016, tallying two goals and recording one assist before suffering an arm injury that kept him out for the last eight matches of the season.

Despite his prominence in the lineup and the team’s solid performances throughout their inaugural campaign, McCarthy isn’t shy about admitting that there’s plenty of room for improvement. One of his top objectives for the team in 2017 is to capitalize on opportunities and not let results slip away.

“As a group we need to win, that’s really all it comes down to,” McCarthy said. “There were a lot of games last year where we should have taken more points than we did, and we would’ve had a pretty successful year had we done so, so I think this year is about getting the job done.”

Another reason McCarthy is determined to get better results next year is to repay the affection that SAFC fans showed for the club in its inaugural year. After experiencing supporter groups in the top leagues of American and Finnish soccer, McCarthy truly appreciates the love and passion that San Antonio fans bring to Toyota Field, and he feels the team should respond with positive results.

“The fans here are incredible,” McCarthy said. “No matter what happened, even if we lost games, they always had our backs. That’s not true of supporters in all other places, so it’s very important to me and the whole team to feel the love from the stands. It was incredible, there were a few games that were close to selling out, and we had people’s support no matter what. I love the fans.”

McCarthy previously spent three years playing for the New England Revolution, where he was named the Revs’ Best Defender in 2012 as voted by the team’s media. In Finland, he played for Kuopion Palloseura (KuPS), a historical five-time champion club in the country’s premier league who holds the record for most consecutive years in the top-flight.

The defender opted to move back to Texas in 2016, which led him to San Antonio FC ahead of the club’s inaugural season. Since then he has adopted a leadership role in the squad, with his experience aiding him to lead his teammates by example. McCarthy’s prominence in the game even earned him a place in one of the four player banners that hang on the west side of the stadium, along with inaugural season teammates Rafa Castillo, Fejiro Okiomah, and Michael Reed.

With the 2017 season quickly approaching, McCarthy is focused on getting fit and preparing for the year two in the club’s history. Including him, San Antonio FC has now announced nine players on next season’s roster, and McCarthy is looking forward to beginning a new chapter in the club’s history.

“It’s incredible and I’m very excited for the upcoming season,” McCarthy said. “There are so many good players on the roster already. We’re going to win games next year, and we want to bring a championship to San Antonio.”

San Antonio FC today announced that defender and Texas native Stephen McCarthy will return to the club for the 2017 USL season, pending USL and federation approval. Per club policy, terms of the contract were not disclosed.

McCarthy started in each of his 19 USL appearances for San Antonio FC last season, compiling 1,571 total minutes while scoring two goals and recording an assist. The defender played at least 80 minutes in 16 of his 19 starts in 2016 while also playing every minute in both of his U.S. Open Cup appearances. McCarthy missed the final eight league matches for San Antonio FC due to an arm injury the defender suffered during a match vs. Arizona United on August 17.

McCarthy was also named to the USL Team of the Week following his performance on June 18 against Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC, where he scored what proved to be the winning goal in a 2-1 victory.

“Stephen had a solid year for us last season and we hope to see him continue to improve on the field and as a leader,” said SAFC Head Coach Darren Powell. “His season-ending injury last year was unfortunate since he was in good form, so we look forward to him being healthy for preseason.”

McCarthy joined San Antonio prior to the 2016 season after spending the 2015 campaign with Finnish first division side Kuopion Palloseura (KuPS). McCarthy was originally drafted by the New England Revolution (MLS) in the second round (24th overall) of the 2011 MLS SuperDraft. McCarthy went on to make 69 appearances from 2011-14 with the Revs, scoring two goals during that time.

The 6-4 defender attended and played soccer for both Santa Clara University and the University of North Carolina. McCarthy was also a member of PDL clubs DFW Tornados in 2009 and Carolina Dynamo in 2010. The Texas native was a member of the United States U-18 squad that traveled to Brazil for the 2007 Pan-American Games. McCarthy made three appearances and scored one goal in the tournament.

“I’m excited to continue my career with San Antonio FC in my home state of Texas,” said McCarthy. “As a team, we are looking to improve on last year and work hard on bringing a championship to San Antonio.”

McCarthy marks the second defensive signing that SAFC has made in the last week after the club previously announced the arrival of Cyprian Hedrick on November 29.

San Antonio FC is currently prepping for its second season in the USL, which is scheduled to kick off in the spring. Fans interested in season tickets can contact the SAFC sales office at 210-444-5MLS or visit www.sanantoniofc.com.

Supporters can follow the club by liking San Antonio FC on Facebook, as well as following the team on Twitter (@SanAntonioFC), Instagram (@sanantoniofc) and Snapchat (SanAntonioFC).

San Antonio FC today announced that defender and Texas native Stephen McCarthy will return to the club for the 2017 USL season, pending USL and federation approval. Per club policy, terms of the contract were not disclosed.

McCarthy started in each of his 19 USL appearances for San Antonio FC last season, compiling 1,571 total minutes while scoring two goals and recording an assist. The defender played at least 80 minutes in 16 of his 19 starts in 2016 while also playing every minute in both of his U.S. Open Cup appearances. McCarthy missed the final eight league matches for San Antonio FC due to an arm injury the defender suffered during a match vs. Arizona United on August 17.

McCarthy was also named to the USL Team of the Week following his performance on June 18 against Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC, where he scored what proved to be the winning goal in a 2-1 victory.

“Stephen had a solid year for us last season and we hope to see him continue to improve on the field and as a leader,” said SAFC Head Coach Darren Powell. “His season-ending injury last year was unfortunate since he was in good form, so we look forward to him being healthy for preseason.”

McCarthy joined San Antonio prior to the 2016 season after spending the 2015 campaign with Finnish first division side Kuopion Palloseura (KuPS). McCarthy was originally drafted by the New England Revolution (MLS) in the second round (24th overall) of the 2011 MLS SuperDraft. McCarthy went on to make 69 appearances from 2011-14 with the Revs, scoring two goals during that time.

The 6-4 defender attended and played soccer for both Santa Clara University and the University of North Carolina. McCarthy was also a member of PDL clubs DFW Tornados in 2009 and Carolina Dynamo in 2010. The Texas native was a member of the United States U-18 squad that traveled to Brazil for the 2007 Pan-American Games. McCarthy made three appearances and scored one goal in the tournament.

“I’m excited to continue my career with San Antonio FC in my home state of Texas,” said McCarthy. “As a team, we are looking to improve on last year and work hard on bringing a championship to San Antonio.”

McCarthy marks the second defensive signing that SAFC has made in the last week after the club previously announced the arrival of Cyprian Hedrick on November 29.

San Antonio FC is currently prepping for its second season in the USL, which is scheduled to kick off in the spring. Fans interested in season tickets can contact the SAFC sales office at 210-444-5MLS or visit www.sanantoniofc.com.

Supporters can follow the club by liking San Antonio FC on Facebook, as well as following the team on Twitter (@SanAntonioFC), Instagram (@sanantoniofc) and Snapchat (SanAntonioFC).