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San Antonio FC today announced that goalkeeper Matthew Cardone is returning for the 2021 USL Championship season pending league and federation approval, the team announced today. Per club policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.

“As a staff, we are very excited to have San Antonio native Matt Cardone back for the 2021 season,” said SAFC Head Coach Alen Marcina. “Matt has proven season after season to be one of the top goalkeepers in the USL Championship. He continues to evolve as a leader on and off the field and will continue to play an important part in evolving our team culture while meeting our team's objectives.  Matt serves as a fantastic example for all our aspiring youth soccer talents here in San Antonio.”

With his return, Cardone is the only SAFC player to remain with the club since it’s inception in 2016. During the 2020 season, Cardone started 11 matches, making 28 saves and allowing 11 goals in 990 minutes. The goalkeeper saved 71.8 percent of shots faced while keeping four clean sheets in the shortened campaign. The veteran helped lead a strong SAFC defense to the club’s second playoff berth in team history where he recorded five saves in 120 minutes in the Western Conference Quarterfinals.

Cardone’s most prolific season with SAFC came in 2019 when he appeared in 33 matches, compiling 2,923 minutes played and seven clean sheets. He recorded 94 saves on the season to set a new SAFC record while also ranking seventh in the USL Championship. Overall in his San Antonio FC career, Cardone has appeared in 80 matches in all competitions, making 79 starts and tallying 7,110 minutes. The 27-year-old became the first-ever SAFC player to earn USL Player of the Week honors after his performance at Saint Louis FC in August of 2016 and remains the club’s all-time penalty save leader with five. Cardone also holds the joint-record for saves in a single match with SAFC after he recorded nine at Swope Park Rangers on July 30, 2016.

“I am very proud to continue representing my hometown club and the incredible San Antonio fans and community,” said Cardone. “I look forward to our team and culture continuing to grow as we strive to improve on last season.”

Prior to joining SAFC, Cardone spent 2015 playing for the San Antonio Scorpions in the North American Soccer League. The Alamo City native played four years of collegiate soccer at Trinity University from 2011-2014, where he earned All-American honors in 2012 and 2014, and also attended MacArthur High School.

San Antonio FC is currently preparing for the upcoming USL Championship season, and fans can purchase 2021 season tickets by calling or texting the SAFC sales office at 210-444-5657 or by visiting www.sanantoniofc.com. Supporters can also follow the club by liking San Antonio FC on Facebook (@SAFCUSL), as well as following the team on Twitter (@SanAntonioFC) and Instagram (@sanantoniofc).

San Antonio FC today announced that goalkeeper Matthew Cardone is returning for the 2021 USL Championship season pending league and federation approval, the team announced today. Per club policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.

“As a staff, we are very excited to have San Antonio native Matt Cardone back for the 2021 season,” said SAFC Head Coach Alen Marcina. “Matt has proven season after season to be one of the top goalkeepers in the USL Championship. He continues to evolve as a leader on and off the field and will continue to play an important part in evolving our team culture while meeting our team’s objectives.  Matt serves as a fantastic example for all our aspiring youth soccer talents here in San Antonio.”

With his return, Cardone is the only SAFC player to remain with the club since it’s inception in 2016. During the 2020 season, Cardone started 11 matches, making 28 saves and allowing 11 goals in 990 minutes. The goalkeeper saved 71.8 percent of shots faced while keeping four clean sheets in the shortened campaign. The veteran helped lead a strong SAFC defense to the club’s second playoff berth in team history where he recorded five saves in 120 minutes in the Western Conference Quarterfinals.

Cardone’s most prolific season with SAFC came in 2019 when he appeared in 33 matches, compiling 2,923 minutes played and seven clean sheets. He recorded 94 saves on the season to set a new SAFC record while also ranking seventh in the USL Championship. Overall in his San Antonio FC career, Cardone has appeared in 80 matches in all competitions, making 79 starts and tallying 7,110 minutes. The 27-year-old became the first-ever SAFC player to earn USL Player of the Week honors after his performance at Saint Louis FC in August of 2016 and remains the club’s all-time penalty save leader with five. Cardone also holds the joint-record for saves in a single match with SAFC after he recorded nine at Swope Park Rangers on July 30, 2016.

“I am very proud to continue representing my hometown club and the incredible San Antonio fans and community,” said Cardone. “I look forward to our team and culture continuing to grow as we strive to improve on last season.”

Prior to joining SAFC, Cardone spent 2015 playing for the San Antonio Scorpions in the North American Soccer League. The Alamo City native played four years of collegiate soccer at Trinity University from 2011-2014, where he earned All-American honors in 2012 and 2014, and also attended MacArthur High School.

San Antonio FC is currently preparing for the upcoming USL Championship season, and fans can purchase 2021 season tickets by calling or texting the SAFC sales office at 210-444-5657 or by visiting www.sanantoniofc.com. Supporters can also follow the club by liking San Antonio FC on Facebook (@SAFCUSL), as well as following the team on Twitter (@SanAntonioFC) and Instagram (@sanantoniofc).

San Antonio FC has re-signed midfielder Victor “PC” Giro for the 2021 USL Championship season pending league and federation approval, the team announced today. Per club policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.

“As a staff, we are thrilled to welcome back PC and his family to SAFC,” said SAFC Head Coach Alen Marcina. “PC played a vital part in our team culture and on-field success. His values, leadership, task execution on and off the ball, and overall commitment to the club and city are extraordinary. PC will continue to serve as a prominent figure in our team and our pursuit to compete for championships.”

PC was an integral member of the SAFC roster in 2020, appearing 14 of the club’s 16 regular season matches, compiling 1,254 minutes played. In addition to his goal and two assists, PC jointly led SAFC in key passes (23) while ranking second on the club in tackles (39). His dominance in the center of the park helped lead SAFC to a 10-3-3 record and a playoff spot in 2020 along with a league-best 11-game unbeaten streak. The Brazilian added an 81.6 percent passing accuracy along with 16 shots over the course of the pandemic shortened season.

The 27-year-old originally joined SAFC after spending the 2017-19 seasons in Major League Soccer with the Vancouver Whitecaps and Orlando City SC, respectively. The midfielder made over 30 appearances combined between Orlando and Vancouver. He also made 45 appearances across parts of two seasons with the Fort Lauderdale Strikers (NASL) before being sold to the Tampa Bay Rowdies (NASL) in the middle of the 2016 season. PC would go on to make 14 appearances for Tampa Bay while adding one goal and one assist to close the season for the Rowdies. Overall, the midfielder recorded nine goals and eight assists in 59 NASL matches with the two clubs.   

“I’m thrilled to come back to San Antonio,” said PC. “I know all the staff and although some of the team will change, I’m happy to play a second year here. Our goal is to build on 2020 and be even better to reach our objectives. I’ll give my all to help my teammates so we can get to the final and have better results than we did last season.”

PC is a youth product of the famous Corinthians academy in his native Brazil and made his debut for the Corinthians B team in 2013. While with Corinthians, he also spent time on loan with Beleneses of the Portuguese first division.

San Antonio FC is currently preparing for the upcoming USL Championship season, and fans can purchase 2021 season tickets by calling or texting the SAFC sales office at 210-444-5657 or by visiting www.sanantoniofc.com. Supporters can also follow the club by liking San Antonio FC on Facebook (@SAFCUSL), as well as following the team on Twitter (@SanAntonioFC) and Instagram (@sanantoniofc).

San Antonio FC has re-signed midfielder Victor “PC” Giro for the 2021 USL Championship season pending league and federation approval, the team announced today. Per club policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.

“As a staff, we are thrilled to welcome back PC and his family to SAFC,” said SAFC Head Coach Alen Marcina. “PC played a vital part in our team culture and on-field success. His values, leadership, task execution on and off the ball, and overall commitment to the club and city are extraordinary. PC will continue to serve as a prominent figure in our team and our pursuit to compete for championships.”

PC was an integral member of the SAFC roster in 2020, appearing 14 of the club’s 16 regular season matches, compiling 1,254 minutes played. In addition to his goal and two assists, PC jointly led SAFC in key passes (23) while ranking second on the club in tackles (39). His dominance in the center of the park helped lead SAFC to a 10-3-3 record and a playoff spot in 2020 along with a league-best 11-game unbeaten streak. The Brazilian added an 81.6 percent passing accuracy along with 16 shots over the course of the pandemic shortened season.

The 27-year-old originally joined SAFC after spending the 2017-19 seasons in Major League Soccer with the Vancouver Whitecaps and Orlando City SC, respectively. The midfielder made over 30 appearances combined between Orlando and Vancouver. He also made 45 appearances across parts of two seasons with the Fort Lauderdale Strikers (NASL) before being sold to the Tampa Bay Rowdies (NASL) in the middle of the 2016 season. PC would go on to make 14 appearances for Tampa Bay while adding one goal and one assist to close the season for the Rowdies. Overall, the midfielder recorded nine goals and eight assists in 59 NASL matches with the two clubs.   

“I’m thrilled to come back to San Antonio,” said PC. “I know all the staff and although some of the team will change, I’m happy to play a second year here. Our goal is to build on 2020 and be even better to reach our objectives. I’ll give my all to help my teammates so we can get to the final and have better results than we did last season.”

PC is a youth product of the famous Corinthians academy in his native Brazil and made his debut for the Corinthians B team in 2013. While with Corinthians, he also spent time on loan with Beleneses of the Portuguese first division.

San Antonio FC is currently preparing for the upcoming USL Championship season, and fans can purchase 2021 season tickets by calling or texting the SAFC sales office at 210-444-5657 or by visiting www.sanantoniofc.com. Supporters can also follow the club by liking San Antonio FC on Facebook (@SAFCUSL), as well as following the team on Twitter (@SanAntonioFC) and Instagram (@sanantoniofc).

San Antonio FC has signed midfielder Cam Lindley for the 2021 USL Championship season pending league and federation approval, the team announced today. Per club policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.

“As a staff, we are delighted to add Cam to the SAFC family,” said SAFC Head Coach Alen Marcina. “Over his young playing career, he has demonstrated selfless leadership qualities and has also served as a team captain at the USL level. Cam is a very talented player with high potential and already meaningful playing experience at various U.S. national team levels, MLS and USL.”

Lindley joins SAFC after spending the 2020 season with Indy Eleven, making 12 appearances and playing 756 minutes during the COVID-19 shortened campaign. The 23-year-old created 11 chances while also adding 15 tackles and 10 interceptions over the course of his 12 games. Lindley successfully completed 78.0 percent of his 441 passes in 2020, including 60.6 percent of his long passes. Overall, the Indiana native has appeared in 38 USL Championship matches in his career, playing 2,964 minutes with Indy, Memphis 901 FC and the now-defunct Saint Louis FC.

Originally signed by Orlando City SC of MLS, Lindley made his debut with the Florida club in 2018 before joining Saint Louis FC on loan later that season. After his second loan spell with Memphis during the 2019 season, the midfielder then signed full time with Indy Eleven prior to the 2020 campaign. Lindley has also represented his country at the U-17, U-18, U-20 and U-23 levels, making 28 appearances overall.

“I am super excited to be joining such a historic franchise,” said Lindley. “I’m excited to work with Alen and the entire staff and build on the great year they had last season. I’m looking forward to giving my all for the club and entire SAFC community.”

Lindley also attended North Carolina where made 43 appearances overall and garnered ACC Midfielder of the Year honors along with an First Team All-ACC inclusion following his sophomore season.

San Antonio FC is currently preparing for the upcoming USL Championship season, and fans can purchase 2021 season tickets by calling or texting the SAFC sales office at 210-444-5657 or by visiting www.sanantoniofc.com. Supporters can also follow the club by liking San Antonio FC on Facebook (@SAFCUSL), as well as following the team on Twitter (@SanAntonioFC) and Instagram (@sanantoniofc).

San Antonio FC has signed midfielder Cam Lindley for the 2021 USL Championship season pending league and federation approval, the team announced today. Per club policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.

“As a staff, we are delighted to add Cam to the SAFC family,” said SAFC Head Coach Alen Marcina. “Over his young playing career, he has demonstrated selfless leadership qualities and has also served as a team captain at the USL level. Cam is a very talented player with high potential and already meaningful playing experience at various U.S. national team levels, MLS and USL.”

Lindley joins SAFC after spending the 2020 season with Indy Eleven, making 12 appearances and playing 756 minutes during the COVID-19 shortened campaign. The 23-year-old created 11 chances while also adding 15 tackles and 10 interceptions over the course of his 12 games. Lindley successfully completed 78.0 percent of his 441 passes in 2020, including 60.6 percent of his long passes. Overall, the Indiana native has appeared in 38 USL Championship matches in his career, playing 2,964 minutes with Indy, Memphis 901 FC and the now-defunct Saint Louis FC.

Originally signed by Orlando City SC of MLS, Lindley made his debut with the Florida club in 2018 before joining Saint Louis FC on loan later that season. After his second loan spell with Memphis during the 2019 season, the midfielder then signed full time with Indy Eleven prior to the 2020 campaign. Lindley has also represented his country at the U-17, U-18, U-20 and U-23 levels, making 28 appearances overall.

“I am super excited to be joining such a historic franchise,” said Lindley. “I’m excited to work with Alen and the entire staff and build on the great year they had last season. I’m looking forward to giving my all for the club and entire SAFC community.”

Lindley also attended North Carolina where made 43 appearances overall and garnered ACC Midfielder of the Year honors along with an First Team All-ACC inclusion following his sophomore season.

San Antonio FC is currently preparing for the upcoming USL Championship season, and fans can purchase 2021 season tickets by calling or texting the SAFC sales office at 210-444-5657 or by visiting www.sanantoniofc.com. Supporters can also follow the club by liking San Antonio FC on Facebook (@SAFCUSL), as well as following the team on Twitter (@SanAntonioFC) and Instagram (@sanantoniofc).

When Ollie Wright came over to the United States, he knew he was going to have to make sacrifices to reach his ultimate goal of becoming a professional athlete. The England native who grew up in the English academy system from a very young age at clubs like Brentford and Fulham, needed a change of pace to continue the pursuit of his goal. Wright found himself at St. Mary’s University in San Antonio where great things awaited him.

“I was in an academy system from a young age,” said Wright. “I tried my hand at being a professional over there, but unfortunately it didn’t happen. Luckily, I found America as an avenue to go down to further my career.”

After making the decision to attend St. Mary’s, Wright quickly made an impact for the Rattlers. In his three seasons there – the fourth delayed due to COVID-19 – Wright scored 13 goals and added 20 assists in addition to being named the Lone Star Conference Player of the Year after his junior season. The midfielder led his team to their first NCAA Tournament in school history that year en route to being named the school’s Co-Male Athlete of the Year following the season.

During his time with St. Mary’s Wright was also invited to train with the San Antonio FC first team where his qualities were tested against a side that would later go on to win their group during the 2020 season. The opportunity came not only because of his great Division 2 soccer play, but also because of what he did in USL League Two during the summer of 2019. Wright appeared in 14 matches for Corpus Christi FC during the League Two Season, helping spear-head one of the league’s best attacks as he set the new League Two single-season assist record with 15. Wright added seven goals and officially put his name on the up and coming map withing the regional soccer circles.

When Ollie Wright came over to the United States, he knew he was going to have to make sacrifices to reach his ultimate goal of becoming a professional athlete. The England native who grew up in the English academy system from a very young age at clubs like Brentford and Fulham, needed a change of pace to continue the pursuit of his goal. Wright found himself at St. Mary’s University in San Antonio where great things awaited him.

“I was in an academy system from a young age,” said Wright. “I tried my hand at being a professional over there, but unfortunately it didn’t happen. Luckily, I found America as an avenue to go down to further my career.”

After making the decision to attend St. Mary’s, Wright quickly made an impact for the Rattlers. In his three seasons there – the fourth delayed due to COVID-19 – Wright scored 13 goals and added 20 assists in addition to being named the Lone Star Conference Player of the Year after his junior season. The midfielder led his team to their first NCAA Tournament in school history that year en route to being named the school’s Co-Male Athlete of the Year following the season.

During his time with St. Mary’s Wright was also invited to train with the San Antonio FC first team where his qualities were tested against a side that would later go on to win their group during the 2020 season. The opportunity came not only because of his great Division 2 soccer play, but also because of what he did in USL League Two during the summer of 2019. Wright appeared in 14 matches for Corpus Christi FC during the League Two Season, helping spear-head one of the league’s best attacks as he set the new League Two single-season assist record with 15. Wright added seven goals and officially put his name on the up and coming map withing the regional soccer circles.

“Ollie, a standout performer for St. Mary's University, demonstrates the behaviors expected in our environment and team culture,” said SAFC Head Coach Alen Marcina. “He exhibits the skillset to execute the on and off the ball tasks required in our game model.”

After Wright accomplished the first steps of his goal in the United States, the next opportunity presented itself. After his impressive performances at St. Mary’s, Corpus Christi and within SAFC training, Wright was offered his first professional contract from San Antonio FC, which was announced last Tuesday.

“I’m very happy to be here,” said Wright. “San Antonio is my home away from home and I’m absolutely buzzing to be playing for the local club.”

“Ollie, a standout performer for St. Mary’s University, demonstrates the behaviors expected in our environment and team culture,” said SAFC Head Coach Alen Marcina. “He exhibits the skillset to execute the on and off the ball tasks required in our game model.”

After Wright accomplished the first steps of his goal in the United States, the next opportunity presented itself. After his impressive performances at St. Mary’s, Corpus Christi and within SAFC training, Wright was offered his first professional contract from San Antonio FC, which was announced last Tuesday.

“I’m very happy to be here,” said Wright. “San Antonio is my home away from home and I’m absolutely buzzing to be playing for the local club.”

For Wright, his travels to the United States was always going to be full of ups and downs. He recognizes that in each conservation about the topic. However, his potential is through the roof and he is committed to being successful on and off the field, individually and as a team with the Alamo City club.

“The distance from family was difficult to begin with, but I’ve made some great friends for life in San Antonio so I’m happy to be here,” remarked Wright.

“I just want to help the team as much as I can. As a team, I saw last season they were so close. They were the longest unbeaten team in the league, and I think we can 100 percent eclipse that this season.”

For Wright, his travels to the United States was always going to be full of ups and downs. He recognizes that in each conservation about the topic. However, his potential is through the roof and he is committed to being successful on and off the field, individually and as a team with the Alamo City club.

“The distance from family was difficult to begin with, but I’ve made some great friends for life in San Antonio so I’m happy to be here,” remarked Wright.

“I just want to help the team as much as I can. As a team, I saw last season they were so close. They were the longest unbeaten team in the league, and I think we can 100 percent eclipse that this season.”

San Antonio FC has signed midfielder Ollie Wright for the 2021 USL Championship season pending league and federation approval, the team announced today. Per club policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.

“We are excited to welcome Ollie to the SAFC family,” said SAFC Head Coach Alen Marcina. “Ollie, a standout performer for St. Mary's University, demonstrates the behaviors expected in our environment and team culture. He exhibits the skillset to execute the on and off the ball tasks required in our game model. As a staff, we look forward to assisting Ollie in his growth as a person and professional and excited to see his contributions to the team.”

Wright joins SAFC after playing his collegiate soccer at St. Mary’s University in San Antonio. The London, England native was named co-Male Athlete of the Year at St. Mary’s following his junior season where he recorded eight goals and 12 assists while leading the Rattlers to their first NCAA tournament in team history. In addition, Wright was named the Lone Star Conference Player of the Year along with the D2CCA South Central Region Player of the Year that season. Overall, in his time as a Rattler, the midfielder scored 13 goals and added 20 assists.

The 21-year-old also spent the 2019 USL League Two season with Corpus Christi FC, appearing in 14 matches and compiling 1,024 minutes played. Wright led the team with seven goals and 15 assists over the course of the regular season. Prior to moving to the United States, Wright spent time in strong English academies including Fulham and Brentford.

“I’m very happy to be here,” said Wright. “San Antonio is my home away from home and I’m absolutely buzzing to be playing for the local club.” 

San Antonio FC is currently preparing for the upcoming USL Championship season, and fans can purchase 2021 season tickets by calling or texting the SAFC sales office at 210-444-5657 or by visiting www.sanantoniofc.com. Supporters can also follow the club by liking San Antonio FC on Facebook (@SAFCUSL), as well as following the team on Twitter (@SanAntonioFC) and Instagram (@sanantoniofc).

San Antonio FC has signed midfielder Ollie Wright for the 2021 USL Championship season pending league and federation approval, the team announced today. Per club policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.

“We are excited to welcome Ollie to the SAFC family,” said SAFC Head Coach Alen Marcina. “Ollie, a standout performer for St. Mary’s University, demonstrates the behaviors expected in our environment and team culture. He exhibits the skillset to execute the on and off the ball tasks required in our game model. As a staff, we look forward to assisting Ollie in his growth as a person and professional and excited to see his contributions to the team.”

Wright joins SAFC after playing his collegiate soccer at St. Mary’s University in San Antonio. The London, England native was named co-Male Athlete of the Year at St. Mary’s following his junior season where he recorded eight goals and 12 assists while leading the Rattlers to their first NCAA tournament in team history. In addition, Wright was named the Lone Star Conference Player of the Year along with the D2CCA South Central Region Player of the Year that season. Overall, in his time as a Rattler, the midfielder scored 13 goals and added 20 assists.

The 21-year-old also spent the 2019 USL League Two season with Corpus Christi FC, appearing in 14 matches and compiling 1,024 minutes played. Wright led the team with seven goals and 15 assists over the course of the regular season. Prior to moving to the United States, Wright spent time in strong English academies including Fulham and Brentford.

“I’m very happy to be here,” said Wright. “San Antonio is my home away from home and I’m absolutely buzzing to be playing for the local club.” 

San Antonio FC is currently preparing for the upcoming USL Championship season, and fans can purchase 2021 season tickets by calling or texting the SAFC sales office at 210-444-5657 or by visiting www.sanantoniofc.com. Supporters can also follow the club by liking San Antonio FC on Facebook (@SAFCUSL), as well as following the team on Twitter (@SanAntonioFC) and Instagram (@sanantoniofc).

San Antonio FC today announced that goalkeeper Carlos Mercado, as well as midfielder Leo Torres, forward Jose Gallegos and defender Liam Doyle are all under contract for the 2021 season.

Gallegos was a key member of the 2020 roster, appearing in all 16 matches while recording two goals, three assists and 23 chances created. The SAFC Pro Academy product was named a finalist for the league’s Young Player of the Year award following the season.

Torres made his league debut last season, playing in two matches while Doyle – who joined the club in September – started in the lone SAFC playoff match. Mercado did not make an appearance for SAFC in 2020, however he was named in 11 match-day squads including the final 10.

In addition, the club continues to be in discussions with numerous players from the 2020 roster about a return to the team in 2021.

SAFC will continue to prepare for the 2021 season after finishing 10-3-3 and earning the club’s second playoff berth in team history in 2020.

San Antonio FC today announced that goalkeeper Carlos Mercado, as well as midfielder Leo Torres, forward Jose Gallegos and defender Liam Doyle are all under contract for the 2021 season.

Gallegos was a key member of the 2020 roster, appearing in all 16 matches while recording two goals, three assists and 23 chances created. The SAFC Pro Academy product was named a finalist for the league’s Young Player of the Year award following the season.

Torres made his league debut last season, playing in two matches while Doyle – who joined the club in September – started in the lone SAFC playoff match. Mercado did not make an appearance for SAFC in 2020, however he was named in 11 match-day squads including the final 10.

In addition, the club continues to be in discussions with numerous players from the 2020 roster about a return to the team in 2021.

SAFC will continue to prepare for the 2021 season after finishing 10-3-3 and earning the club’s second playoff berth in team history in 2020.

It wasn’t the way the club envisioned the season ending. Apart from the quarterfinal loss, the manner in which it happened – a clear handball that led to the New Mexico goal – made the end a bit harder to swallow from and SAFC standpoint. After a season that was dictated by obstacles, distractions, adjustments and adaptation, SAFC players and staff persevered to finish atop their group and earn the club’s second playoff berth in history.

The way it ended, just didn’t feel right.

It wasn’t the way the club envisioned the season ending. Apart from the quarterfinal loss, the manner in which it happened – a clear handball that led to the New Mexico goal – made the end a bit harder to swallow from and SAFC standpoint. After a season that was dictated by obstacles, distractions, adjustments and adaptation, SAFC players and staff persevered to finish atop their group and earn the club’s second playoff berth in history.

The way it ended, just didn’t feel right.

“Our players are incredibly disappointed,” SAFC Head Coach Alen Marcina said after the game. “I told players and staff in the locker room that I was incredibly proud of each of them. They left it all out there and they made 210 [San Antonio] proud.”

"It’s a pretty terrible feeling,” defender Joshua Yara echoed. “It’s a game that should not have ended the way it did. Everyone is disappointed obviously especially with the way they scored and the way that the game ended.”

The loss expectedly stung for a bit, but as the weeks passed and the wounds healed, Marcina and company have gotten back to work already preparing for 2021. As they say, time waits for no man, and SAFC couldn’t waste too much of it focusing on how 2020 ended, but instead they are focused on how to start off 2021.

It starts with reflection. The coaching staff has taken a long look and the positives and negatives of the previous campaign, and there are a lot of good things to takeaway aside from the team’s top finish in Group D. SAFC recorded its second longest unbeaten streak in team history, had three SAFC Pro Academy products make their professional debuts and finished unbeaten (7-0-1) at home during the regular season. Marcina, his staff and the SAFC players acknowledged these positives and need to look back on them fondly.

“Our players are incredibly disappointed,” SAFC Head Coach Alen Marcina said after the game. “I told players and staff in the locker room that I was incredibly proud of each of them. They left it all out there and they made 210 [San Antonio] proud.”

“It’s a pretty terrible feeling,” defender Joshua Yara echoed. “It’s a game that should not have ended the way it did. Everyone is disappointed obviously especially with the way they scored and the way that the game ended.”

The loss expectedly stung for a bit, but as the weeks passed and the wounds healed, Marcina and company have gotten back to work already preparing for 2021. As they say, time waits for no man, and SAFC couldn’t waste too much of it focusing on how 2020 ended, but instead they are focused on how to start off 2021.

It starts with reflection. The coaching staff has taken a long look and the positives and negatives of the previous campaign, and there are a lot of good things to takeaway aside from the team’s top finish in Group D. SAFC recorded its second longest unbeaten streak in team history, had three SAFC Pro Academy products make their professional debuts and finished unbeaten (7-0-1) at home during the regular season. Marcina, his staff and the SAFC players acknowledged these positives and need to look back on them fondly.

“As a collective, we are very proud of what was achieved last season during these trying times,” Marcina said. “To go undefeated at home in the regular season, finishing first in our group and three points short of finishing tied for first in the overall league standings is a significant team accomplishment. It is our second consecutive year that we have a player nominated as a finalist for the USL Young Player of Year Award. All players and staff each played a meaningful part in the newly implemented high-performance culture.”

One thing that has always been apart of the club’s identity and was amplified even more in 2020 is the dedication to a strong first-team along with growing and developing local youth players in the region through the SAFC Pro Academy. The 2020 roster saw a healthy mix of veteran players with championship experience to go along with young emerging starts – products of the academy along with players from abroad – which provided a successful recipe. Heading into 2021, that identity will still be as prevalent as ever.  

“We believe a balance of youth and veterans allow us to meet our team objective of establishing SAFC as a national leader in team performance and player development,” added Marcina.  

“As a collective, we are very proud of what was achieved last season during these trying times,” Marcina said. “To go undefeated at home in the regular season, finishing first in our group and three points short of finishing tied for first in the overall league standings is a significant team accomplishment. It is our second consecutive year that we have a player nominated as a finalist for the USL Young Player of Year Award. All players and staff each played a meaningful part in the newly implemented high-performance culture.”

One thing that has always been apart of the club’s identity and was amplified even more in 2020 is the dedication to a strong first-team along with growing and developing local youth players in the region through the SAFC Pro Academy. The 2020 roster saw a healthy mix of veteran players with championship experience to go along with young emerging starts – products of the academy along with players from abroad – which provided a successful recipe. Heading into 2021, that identity will still be as prevalent as ever.  

“We believe a balance of youth and veterans allow us to meet our team objective of establishing SAFC as a national leader in team performance and player development,” added Marcina.  

As the new culture grows and SAFC builds on its 2020 success next season, the staff is beginning to piece together the roster for next season. With certain players from 2020 already under contract for next season (who are likely to be announced later this month), SAFC will also look to retain and add key players in each position going forward.

One thing is certain. Aside from ability on the field, Marcina and his staff will require players to share the club’s vision and values so that the team standards are upheld. Marcina has a strong track record of recreating exciting and talented players, but 2020 was just another example of how those players he recruits also need to buy in to the team culture – which the 2020 roster did phenomenally.

As the new culture grows and SAFC builds on its 2020 success next season, the staff is beginning to piece together the roster for next season. With certain players from 2020 already under contract for next season (who are likely to be announced later this month), SAFC will also look to retain and add key players in each position going forward.

One thing is certain. Aside from ability on the field, Marcina and his staff will require players to share the club’s vision and values so that the team standards are upheld. Marcina has a strong track record of recreating exciting and talented players, but 2020 was just another example of how those players he recruits also need to buy in to the team culture – which the 2020 roster did phenomenally.

“We want to retain, identify, and acquire people who share our vision, objectives, values, and can execute the team standards to continue to evolve our culture,” Marcina said of his recruitment. “We are looking for people with a growth mindset, who are relentless in preparation, have a high degree of integrity, and put the good of the team ahead of themselves.  Our loyal and passionate fans can continue to expect to see our team trademark standards of being the aggressors with and without the ball and a collective 'earn everything' mindset.”

With the end of the 2020 season firmly in the rearview mirror, the excitement levels for 2021 are starting to build. The offseason is officially underway, and SAFC fans will be excited to see who joins the club’s roster for next season. No matter what the team looks like, Marcina, the staff and fans can expect the culture and vision for the team to only get stronger.  

“We want to retain, identify, and acquire people who share our vision, objectives, values, and can execute the team standards to continue to evolve our culture,” Marcina said of his recruitment. “We are looking for people with a growth mindset, who are relentless in preparation, have a high degree of integrity, and put the good of the team ahead of themselves.  Our loyal and passionate fans can continue to expect to see our team trademark standards of being the aggressors with and without the ball and a collective ‘earn everything’ mindset.”

With the end of the 2020 season firmly in the rearview mirror, the excitement levels for 2021 are starting to build. The offseason is officially underway, and SAFC fans will be excited to see who joins the club’s roster for next season. No matter what the team looks like, Marcina, the staff and fans can expect the culture and vision for the team to only get stronger.  

San Antonio FC forward Jose Gallegos was named a finalist for the 2020 USL Championship Young Player of the Year Award, the league announced today. The 18-year-old SAFC Pro Academy Product is looking to be the second consecutive SAFC player to win the award after Cristian Parano took home the honors in 2019.

Gallegos appeared in all 16 regular season matches for San Antonio FC in 2020, starting 12 and compiling 1,076 minutes played while helping the club finish first in Group D and clinch its second playoff berth all-time. The San Antonio native and Central Catholic graduate was tied for the most key passes (23) for SAFC while adding the third-most tackles (36) and shots (21). Gallegos scored two goals and was tied for second on the club with three assists. In addition, the 18-year-old recorded 41 successful dribbles in the regular season, ranking second in the USL Championship.

After being identified by the SAFC Pro Academy Elite Training Program, Gallegos originally joined the first team in 2019 on an academy player agreement before signing his first professional contract in February. Overall with SAFC, Gallegos has appeared in 30 league matches while compiling 1,676 minutes played, three goals, four assists and 33 chances created.

Gallegos is joined by Wilson Harris of Sporting KC II and Hayden Sargis of Sacramento Republic FC as finalists for the award this year. In addition to Parano’s honor last season, San Antonio FC has had two other players win USL Championship awards – both coming after the 2017 season. Defender Sebastien Ibeagha was named the Defender of the Year while Diego Restrepo earned Goalkeeper of the Year honors after a second-place finish in the Western Conference by SAFC that season.

The 2020 USL Championship Awards are voted on by team management and a league-wide media panel that included representation from every USL market.

San Antonio FC forward Jose Gallegos was named a finalist for the 2020 USL Championship Young Player of the Year Award, the league announced today. The 18-year-old SAFC Pro Academy Product is looking to be the second consecutive SAFC player to win the award after Cristian Parano took home the honors in 2019.

Gallegos appeared in all 16 regular season matches for San Antonio FC in 2020, starting 12 and compiling 1,076 minutes played while helping the club finish first in Group D and clinch its second playoff berth all-time. The San Antonio native and Central Catholic graduate was tied for the most key passes (23) for SAFC while adding the third-most tackles (36) and shots (21). Gallegos scored two goals and was tied for second on the club with three assists. In addition, the 18-year-old recorded 41 successful dribbles in the regular season, ranking second in the USL Championship.

After being identified by the SAFC Pro Academy Elite Training Program, Gallegos originally joined the first team in 2019 on an academy player agreement before signing his first professional contract in February. Overall with SAFC, Gallegos has appeared in 30 league matches while compiling 1,676 minutes played, three goals, four assists and 33 chances created.

Gallegos is joined by Wilson Harris of Sporting KC II and Hayden Sargis of Sacramento Republic FC as finalists for the award this year. In addition to Parano’s honor last season, San Antonio FC has had two other players win USL Championship awards – both coming after the 2017 season. Defender Sebastien Ibeagha was named the Defender of the Year while Diego Restrepo earned Goalkeeper of the Year honors after a second-place finish in the Western Conference by SAFC that season.

The 2020 USL Championship Awards are voted on by team management and a league-wide media panel that included representation from every USL market.

It’s been just over two weeks since the San Antonio FC 2020 season concluded, and although it wasn’t the finish the entire club was hoping for, there are still plenty of positives to take from one of the most unprecedented seasons in American soccer history.

Between unbeaten streaks, impressive home records and goal scoring exploits, let’s go through some stats and numbers that help shed light on an impressive season from the Alamo City boys.

 

1 – San Antonio FC finished in first place in Group D after recording a 10-3-3 record through the 16-game season. Overall, SAFC was 9-2-3 against group opponents and 1-1-0 against teams outside of the group. The first-place finish was also good enough for the third best record in the Western Conference.

2 – For the second time in club history, San Antonio FC clinched a spot in the USL Championship playoffs. With their first place finish in Group D, SAFC hosted its third playoff match in Toyota Field history against New Mexico United.

3 – SAFC had three SAFC Pro Academy products make their league debuts over the course of the 2020 season. Defender Josh Ramsey followed forward Fabrizio Bernal and midfielder Leo Torres as players to earn their first USL Championship minutes for SAFC. Overall, SAFC has now had six academy products make their USL debuts since 2016.

6 – SAFC forward Luis Solignac scored in six consecutive matches for SAFC from 8/19 to 9/16, marking a new club record that was previously set by Billy Forbes (four matches). Solignac’s eight goals were the third-highest single-season tally for an SAFC player despite playing just 15 games.

7 – San Antonio FC recorded seven home wins in 2020 for a 7-0-1 record, giving them the first unbeaten home record in club history. Overall, SAFC is now 41-10-22 all-time at Toyota Field in the regular season, with a goal difference of +52 (129-77).

9 – San Antonio FC forward Luis Solignac scored in the first minute on 9/5 vs. RGV, recording the fastest goal in club history (0:09 seconds). The goal was tied for the fastest in USL Championship history with Justin Dhillon of the Tacoma Defiance who scored nine seconds in on 5/19/19, and also beat out previous fastest for SAFC which came at the 0:32 mark thanks to a Real Monarchs own goal on 7/21/18 at Toyota Field.

11 – San Antonio FC started the season on an 11-match unbeaten streak, marking their second-highest in club history behind the 14-match streak to start the 2017 season. SAFC was 8-0-3 over the course of the streak.

16 – San Antonio FC scored 30 goals and conceded 14 during the regular season, giving them a +16 goal differential in 2020. The +16 GD is the second-highest on club history behind the +21 set in 2017, although 2020 saw the club play 16 less matches.  

81.25 – SAFC clinched its playoff spot on 9/16 vs. Austin Bold FC, in the 13th match of a 16 game season (81.25% of the campaign). In the club’s other playoff appearance in 2017, SAFC also clinched 81.25% of the way through the season (26th match of a 32 match season).

134 – After the club’s season opener on 3/7 vs. Real Monarchs SLC, SAFC waited 134 days to play its next match at RGV FC on 7/19 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and ensuing season suspension by the USL Championship. SAFC would end the season with 16 matches played following a shortened schedule as part of the league’s return to play protocols.

It’s been just over two weeks since the San Antonio FC 2020 season concluded, and although it wasn’t the finish the entire club was hoping for, there are still plenty of positives to take from one of the most unprecedented seasons in American soccer history.

Between unbeaten streaks, impressive home records and goal scoring exploits, let’s go through some stats and numbers that help shed light on an impressive season from the Alamo City boys.

 

1 – San Antonio FC finished in first place in Group D after recording a 10-3-3 record through the 16-game season. Overall, SAFC was 9-2-3 against group opponents and 1-1-0 against teams outside of the group. The first-place finish was also good enough for the third best record in the Western Conference.

2 – For the second time in club history, San Antonio FC clinched a spot in the USL Championship playoffs. With their first place finish in Group D, SAFC hosted its third playoff match in Toyota Field history against New Mexico United.

3 – SAFC had three SAFC Pro Academy products make their league debuts over the course of the 2020 season. Defender Josh Ramsey followed forward Fabrizio Bernal and midfielder Leo Torres as players to earn their first USL Championship minutes for SAFC. Overall, SAFC has now had six academy products make their USL debuts since 2016.

6 – SAFC forward Luis Solignac scored in six consecutive matches for SAFC from 8/19 to 9/16, marking a new club record that was previously set by Billy Forbes (four matches). Solignac’s eight goals were the third-highest single-season tally for an SAFC player despite playing just 15 games.

7 – San Antonio FC recorded seven home wins in 2020 for a 7-0-1 record, giving them the first unbeaten home record in club history. Overall, SAFC is now 41-10-22 all-time at Toyota Field in the regular season, with a goal difference of +52 (129-77).

9 – San Antonio FC forward Luis Solignac scored in the first minute on 9/5 vs. RGV, recording the fastest goal in club history (0:09 seconds). The goal was tied for the fastest in USL Championship history with Justin Dhillon of the Tacoma Defiance who scored nine seconds in on 5/19/19, and also beat out previous fastest for SAFC which came at the 0:32 mark thanks to a Real Monarchs own goal on 7/21/18 at Toyota Field.

11 – San Antonio FC started the season on an 11-match unbeaten streak, marking their second-highest in club history behind the 14-match streak to start the 2017 season. SAFC was 8-0-3 over the course of the streak.

16 – San Antonio FC scored 30 goals and conceded 14 during the regular season, giving them a +16 goal differential in 2020. The +16 GD is the second-highest on club history behind the +21 set in 2017, although 2020 saw the club play 16 less matches.  

81.25 – SAFC clinched its playoff spot on 9/16 vs. Austin Bold FC, in the 13th match of a 16 game season (81.25% of the campaign). In the club’s other playoff appearance in 2017, SAFC also clinched 81.25% of the way through the season (26th match of a 32 match season).

134 – After the club’s season opener on 3/7 vs. Real Monarchs SLC, SAFC waited 134 days to play its next match at RGV FC on 7/19 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and ensuing season suspension by the USL Championship. SAFC would end the season with 16 matches played following a shortened schedule as part of the league’s return to play protocols.