The highest-level men’s soccer team in central Illinois is about to kick off its second season in USL League Two.  Springfield FC will open the 2026 season on Wednesday, May 20 at 7 p.m. at home to St. Louis Ambush at Sacred Heart-Griffin High School’s football field.  USL League Two is a fourth-tier competition with 143 clubs across the country.  The Stags finished fifth out of the six teams in the Great Plains Division last year.  They are hoping their comprehensive recruitment process and rigorous preparation will lead to greater success this summer.

Tickets cost $10 for adults and $5 for children and can be purchased either on the team’s website or at the venue.  Head Coach Jack Turanchik says the matchday experience is a great value considering the ticket prices and the quality of the soccer. 

The USL League Two season runs through the summer and ends before the college soccer season begins.  As such, most members of the squad are college players.  There is also international talent, including players with connections to major European clubs. 

Turanchik says their recruitment strategy for this season focused on players from successful college programs and those who played regularly with their team.

The squad also consists of some local connections, including one who played at Sacred Heart-Griffin, where Springfield FC’s home matches will take place. 

More information on Springfield FC is available at www.springfield-fc.com.  More information on USL League Two is available at www.uslleaguetwo.com.

Jack Turanchik appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.