New Franchise Adds New Team To Build Player Development Model
Soccer News: The PDL announced it has awarded a new franchise to USL club OKC Energy FC. The club is the 12th in the PDL to be owned and operated by a club in either MLS or the USL.
“We are very excited to see Energy FC join the PDL,” said PDL Executive Director Todd Eason. “Over the past two seasons, Energy FC has been one of the leaders on and off the field in the USL, and will provide an outstanding platform for young players to progress on the path to the professional ranks.”
Energy FC finished second in the USL’s Western Conference during the 2015 regular season, and reached the Western Conference Final in just its second season in the league. The club, coached by Sporting Kansas City legend Jimmy Nielsen, included 12 former PDL players in its ranks in the past season, including 2014 Western Conference champion Daniel Gonzalez of the Kitsap Pumas.
Under the strong ownership of Bob Funk Jr. and Tim McLaughlin, Energy FC has also become a figurehead in the local community, most prominently in the Fields and Futures project alongside Oklahoma City Public Schools.
“This is the next step in our quest to unite the sport of soccer in Oklahoma City,” said Energy FC General Manager Jason Hawkins. “The PDL is a proven track for success at all levels of soccer. This franchise gives local college-aged players the opportunity to compete at a high level during the summer and still maintain their eligibility. Our PDL team has the opportunity to train alongside the professional players in our area, as well as other players we are considering for the future.”
The announcement of the team’s name, head coach and information about the club’s roster are set to be announced in January.
Follow the PDL on social media for news and scores from across the league via Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
