Temecula FC Announces 2nd Round of Tryouts. Brandon Jantz, Owner of Temecula FC, Talks With SoccerToday
The growth of the NPSL is remarkable — The NPSL is currently in over 80 markets with further expansion in sight for the future.
Diane Scavuzzo: spoke with Temecula FC owner Brandon Jantz on the growth of the NPSL and how Temecula FC are progressing.
Diane Scavuzzo: How do you define success?
Brandon Jantz: It depends on the situation. Success on the field does not always mean success off the field, and as an owner you need both to feel successful.
Diane Scavuzzo: Talk about the tournament in Riverside – Why do you believe you had so many spectators?
Brandon Jantz: It was the first annual Riverside County Cup and held between the two NPSL teams in Riverside County. The cup was put on to engage our supporters and give both clubs the opportunity to grow in their respective communities.
Related Article: NPSL Spotlight: Temecula FC’s Brandon Jantz
I think we had a big crowd because we have slowly been growing our support but also, the rapid growth of our youth contributed to the numbers.
Diane Scavuzzo: What are your goals for the upcoming NPSL season?
Brandon Jantz: Our main goal is always to survive financially and after that to make playoffs.
Diane Scavuzzo: What fan favorites are returning to Temecula FC?
Brandon Jantz: I’d say Steven Lamberta, Ryan Brent and Joey Ciochetto are all fan favorites that will be returning and playing a larger role. Joey and Ryan both will be on professional trials in the UK this January. If they are offered a good enough contract to stay, they might not be returning then.
Related Article: NPSL: Temecula FC’s Willie Donachie on Soccer
Diane Scavuzzo: After years in soccer, what is the most surprising thing you have learned?
Brandon Jantz: I think there are some very sad things I’ve learned just in terms of the business side of the youth game and “pay to play” model that really ruins the game. It’s why we work so hard off the field to provide a far less expensive youth academy and give our youth both a NPSL and WPSL team to work their way into.
Diane Scavuzzo: What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?
Brandon Jantz: Keeping the NPSL team alive and growing, and now being financially stable. So many clubs at our level go bankrupt and that is always a very sad thing for the game in the USA.
Diane Scavuzzo: What are your thoughts on the NASL?
Brandon Jantz: I think the NASL is a great league and would be amazing to have Temecula FC in the NASL. If the time ever came where we were getting 7,000-12,000 supporters per match I would love to see us in the NASL.
Photo Credit: Temecula FC / Doug Yoder
