Midwest Premier League

EXPANSION INTEREST FORM

Gateway Conference

2025 Season Preview: Gateway South

A new page turns in the Gateway Conference this spring as the league splits for the first time into North and South Divisions—signaling both growth and possibility. With 2024 champions Cedar Rapids Inferno placed in the North, the Gateway South is wide open. None of the six clubs in this division have ever claimed a Midwest Premier League conference championship nor a divisional title, and that unfamiliarity with the summit brings hunger, unpredictability, and drama.

The Gateway South is a blend of tradition and ambition this season: three experienced clubs who know the grind of a full MWPL campaign and three bold expansion sides eager to leave a mark. From the college-town energy of Columbia MO to the cross-river pride of Belleville IL, from youth development pipelines to veterans of global leagues, every team brings a different flavor to a division that feels like a powder keg waiting to ignite.

AFC Columbia enters 2025 as the senior member of the Gateway South. This is their fourth campaign in the league, and under Chris Miller, the club has grown a strong identity built on technical discipline and attacking enterprise. The offseason has been quiet on the surface—tryouts were just held last week—but key figures from last year’s squad could form the core once again: players like Breck McGrail, Elliot Goodwin, Jacob Moore, and Sam Appiah could be leading the line after a strong 2024 goal haul. If the club can start strong and maintain consistency, they could very well emerge as early favorites in the division. After three years of MWPL experience, the expectation is no longer just to compete—it is to contend.

Despite this being their debut MWPL season, BOHFS St. Louis steps into the league already carrying a seasoned air. A longtime presence in St. Louis’ lower league soccer scene, BOHFS enters with not just ambition, but pedigree. At the helm is Head Coach Alen Bradaric, whose experience and leadership will be crucial as the club transitions into the Midwest Premier League. Their inaugural roster reads like a résumé of pro-level experience: former Swansea City Chad Bond brings European class; ex-D.C. United and Nashville SC playmaker Liam Collins adds MLS level pedigree; and Bosnian-American midfielder Emir Alihodzic joins after spells with Union Omaha and the USL. With no shortage of tactical know-how and locker room leadership, BOHFS might not need much of an adjustment period. The tone has already been set—BOHFS is here to win.

Photo: Ashley Biundo

Club Atletico Saint Louis is now in its third MWPL campaign, and the time for incremental progress may be over. After back-to-back 5th-place finishes, the club—co-founded and managed by Ricardo Garza—is looking to finally break through in 2025. This year, with no NPSL squad in play for the first time since their MWPL launch, all eyes and resources are on this campaign. Though CASTL haven’t released roster details yet, the club’s experience and internal continuity give them a unique edge in this newly formed division. The club knows what works in this league—and more importantly, what does not. That kind of institutional knowledge, paired with renewed focus, could make the difference this time around.

As the only non-Missouri side in the division, Ehtar Belleville FC represents Illinois with pride—and purpose. Founded in 2022 and backed by a passionate local community, Ehtar arrives in the MWPL after gaining valuable experience in the NPSL. Now, in their debut season at the MWPL level, they are aiming to make an immediate impact and to prove they are a battle-tested organization. Unlike many first-year clubs, Ehtar has been anything but quiet during the offseason. They’ve announced a mix of returning players like Jermaine Mentoor and Jake Pollock, along with new arrivals such as Melo Mensah and Don Obare—moves that suggest both continuity and ambition. The club’s energy, fan support, and early squad-building efforts have already created a buzz. Whether they can translate that into results on the field remains to be seen—but the pieces are certainly in place for a compelling debut campaign.

After finishing fourth in their debut campaign last year, St. Louis Stars have already proven that their youth-to-pro pipeline is more than theory—it’s producing results on the field. Built from a respected youth soccer foundation in the metro St. Louis area, the Stars develop players from early ages and bring them up through the ranks, culminating in MWPL competition and beyond. 2024 gave the club a clear idea of what it takes to compete at this level, and 2025 offers a chance to take the next step. The Stars’ blend of technical polish and developmental focus makes them a dangerous opponent for anyone, especially with new teams still adjusting to the league. Their matchups with fellow development-based side STLDA promise to be intense, symbolic—and possibly decisive.

New to the MWPL but no stranger to talent, St. Louis Development Academy enters the league with an already formidable reputation. STLDA has consistently produced high-level youth talent, with players regularly invited to U.S. Soccer ID camps—a sign of both quality and potential. This season marks their first foray into pre-professional league play, bridging the gap between elite youth development and adult-level competition. While the club hasn’t announced specific roster details, expect a young, hungry, and technically gifted group ready to test themselves at a higher level. The derby clashes with St. Louis Stars should be among the most eagerly anticipated fixtures in the division, both for the rivalry and what it represents: two academies, one city, and a chance to own the future.

In a division where no one’s ever been crowned, every match matters—and every win gets a club one step closer to history. The Gateway South is a fresh battleground, full of ambitious returners, confident debutants, and six paths that all lead to one goal: the first championship in the division’s young life. Only one club will reach the top. The race begins now.

Feature Interview: AFC Columbia

AFC Columbia enters its fourth MWPL season as one of the most consistent sides in the Gateway Conference, having finished in the top four each of the last three years. That consistency has been credited to both the club’s ability to recruit top local talent and the standards upheld in its internal culture.

“We have consistently rostered the top players in the Columbia / Mid-Missouri area since Day 1 of competing in the Midwest Premier League,” said Vice President Kurtis Boardsen. “Almost all of these players have competed at the national level at their highly competitive NCAA and NAIA institution and the development they received there prepared them very well for the competition that we face each night we step on the field. We have also surrounded those players with some of the top coaches and soccer minds in the area on our staff, which allows for further development as well as new perspectives to play with when adjustments are needed to be made—both in and out of matches.”

That environment has created a training ground defined by intensity and internal competition. “Our players are battle tested through highly competitive training sessions, where they are constantly on stage to prove they are worthy of the start or playing time in our next match,” Boardsen continued. “This drive pushes our team to be at its best at all times and the players respect that process.”

The mindset is set to continue into Year Four and beyond, guided by a staff that puts equal emphasis on mentality as it does on talent. “Our staff does a great job pushing this culture, but also through auditing the mental toughness of the players we select,” he added. “We have a common goal as a club and our players know what that is at tryouts, so they are well aware of the expectations before they ever pull on the AFCC Blue to represent our Club and Community.”

Photo: Nathan Porter

The Gateway Conference has undergone a major change this year with its split into North and South divisions. For Head Coach Chris Miller, the new structure brings renewed urgency. “The MWPL Gateway has been a highly competitive conference no matter where the teams are located, so we wouldn’t expect this year to be any different,” he said. “Adding two more STL area squads to our division will certainly lighten the travel but will also likely make each game even more important, as many of the games will have more of a local feel.”

Columbia’s roadmap to a title run is clear. “To stay competitive, we will need to steal a few points on the road (as Cedar Rapids Inferno did last year) and hold serve at home (something we could not do consistently last year),” said Miller. “Losing ‘22–’23 champs Ajax St. Louis makes this year seem even more open as each of us will be looking for our first divisional title.”

Even with that opportunity, no match has been taken lightly. “Every team is a challenge and we expect all three new squads (St. Louis Development Academy, as well) to be formidable opponents, just like St. Louis Stars and Club Atletico Saint Louis,” Miller added. “St. Louis is one of, if not the best, soccer cities in the States, so for us to play all 10 matches against quality sides from a much larger population area will be a challenge for us. We certainly know we have our work cut out for us and realize that we need to spend our focus on our own development in order to play at their level. We know we are the smallest fish in this pond and take pride in knowing that we have the opportunity to play against quality opponents every time out. It’s what makes this league so fun and challenging.”

While roster announcements are still pending, a solid core could return—among them Sam Appiah, Jacob Moore, Breck McGrail, and Elliot Goodwin, who helped drive the club’s goalscoring in 2024. Internal improvement and resilience are the offseason priorities. “We are still in the beginning stages of formulating our team for this season,” said Miller, “but we believe we have slowly improved not only our quality, but our depth over the past few years, which is key if you want to compete each night out over the course of the summer. Injuries, weather, vacations… each club will be impacted at some point over the summer.”

Photo: Nathan Porter

That focus has led to intentional team-building. “We have focused the last two years on developing a solid core that understands and buys into our system and beliefs and appreciates what it takes to be successful in a very difficult league,” Miller said. “If nothing else, those that are returning realize how close we were to winning the Gateway the past two seasons and are looking forward to learning from those things that held us back. One thing is for certain—if you end up top table at the end of the season in the Gateway, you will have earned it. The MWPL level of play assures that.”

With Ajax St. Louis no longer in the division, rivalries will shift, but competitive tension remains. Club President Zach Fisher sees new storylines emerging. “With our traditional rival out of the league for the first time, we look forward to continuing the tough matchups with St. Louis Stars and Club Atletico Saint Louis,” he said. “We’ve faced BOHFS in our inaugural season, but both clubs look completely different so it’s hard to gauge where we are compared to them. Personally, I am looking forward to facing Ehtar Belleville FC. That is a club that maybe most resembles our own in the conference and we’ve heard great things about their gameday environment. They are also in Illinois, which any team from that state will be natural rivals for a club from Columbia.”

Off the field, continued investment has supported the club’s growth and identity. “We’ve steadily improved each offseason in specific areas of the club,” said Fisher. “We have improved our player pool each season being the constant, and started to get more attention in the Columbia community as great examples. We don’t want to bite off more than we can chew and we’ve learned lessons along the way on how to build a club that is truly community driven.”

That growth has extended to visibility and fan engagement. “Off the field we’ve spent a lot of time and invested money on making our content better,” Fisher said. “We’ve upgraded the cameras, invested into social media content creation and I think that will help in the long run give us more visibility. Ultimately that should help get more people out to games and increase revenue, which we can reinvest back into the team.”

With culture, continuity, and a chip on their shoulder, AFC Columbia steps into a fresh division with familiar hunger. The opportunity to claim a first divisional title feels closer than ever.

2025 Season Preview: Gateway North

A new era begins in the Midwest Premier League’s Gateway Conference. After steady growth over four years, the Gateway has officially split into two divisions—North and South—signaling both a logistical evolution and a testament to the league’s record-breaking expansion this offseason. In the North, familiar powerhouses and ambitious newcomers collide, with reigning conference champions Cedar Rapids Inferno placed at the center of it all.

But this is not just the division of the defending champs. It’s also the division of possibility. With four of the seven teams making their MWPL debut, the Gateway North feels less like a reshuffled format and more like an opening chapter in an unpredictable new saga.

The torchbearers of Gateway success, Cedar Rapids Inferno are now the team everyone is chasing. Their title-winning 2024 campaign was a masterclass in resilience and attacking depth, with Beni Mubake, Boris Dimitrov, and Nico Galvez Ortiz each finishing with six goals. All eyes will be on whether Head Coach and President Kenan Malicevic can keep that core intact. The Inferno enter 2025 with the weight of expectation. Their experience will be tested weekly in a division filled with unknown quantities—but for a club that’s been a pillar of the MWPL since its inception, pressure is nothing new.

No debutant arrives with more intrigue than AFC Omaha. Having relocated from California, where they competed as AFC South Bay in NISA Nation, the club has wasted no time making a splash in the Midwest. Announcing Morrison Stadium—a 6,000-seat, soccer-specific venue—as their home field, AFC Omaha instantly raised the bar for infrastructure and ambition. On the pitch, they’ve assembled a cosmopolitan squad blending local standouts like Brian Franco-Recinos and Sam Burmeister, with international talent including Akim Soulemana (Germany), Hugo Meneguite (Brazil), and Mubashir Hilowle (Ethiopia). In a division full of unknowns, Omaha might just be the wildcard no one wants to face.

Also new to the MWPL is CB Captains FC, representing Council Bluffs, Iowa. Under the leadership of Head Coach Brian Locke and President Taylor Stanton, the Captains are crafting a roster with an emphasis on balance: seasoned additions like striker Andy Kaup, local talents such as Logan Hanigan, and internationals including Mohammed Ibrahim Abdulrahman (Sudan) and Richard Kangolo (DR Congo). Their parallel move to participate in the UPSL signals long-term commitment to year-round development. One should not be surprised if CB Captains make a name for themselves quickly with a high-energy, hard-nosed style reflective of their Midwestern roots.

One of the oldest clubs in the division, Linoma FC has been a fixture of Nebraska soccer since 1986, with deep ties to local talent development. Now, they take the leap into MWPL competition—bringing with them not just history, but ambition. The appointment of Mark Heath-Preston, a coach with nearly a decade of college experience at Bellevue University, underscores the club’s intent to compete. While their MWPL roster remains under wraps, Linoma’s track record speaks volumes: alumni like Evan Southern, now at USL1’s Portland Hearts of Pine, are proof of the pathway they provide.

MWPL year two for Pearl City SC is a chance to show staying power. Their debut season ended in a 6th place finish, but it also laid a strong foundation for growth. As a youth-driven organization from Muscatine, Iowa, Pearl City offers one of the most holistic development pipelines in the league—from kindergarten to senior team. Under the guidance of Director of Coaching Walton Ponce, they’ve earned a reputation for discipline and structure. In a division with so many new clubs, their continuity could be a valuable asset.

For SESA, 2025 feels like a make-or-break year. Finishing bottom in each of their first two seasons, the club from Burlington, Iowa, showed life late in 2024—tying Pearl City, giving title contenders Club Atletico Saint Louis a good fight, and beating Junction FC in their final outing. That late momentum could be the turning point they need. With their competitive spirit on display, all that’s missing is consistency. If they can build on that strong finish, SESA may finally shake off the underdog label.

Representing Everly, Iowa, Warrior FC is a true grassroots project. Their appointment of Tre Thomas—also the women’s coach at Northwest Iowa Community College—signifies a vision rooted in development and opportunity. Their first-ever roster already features some intriguing international names, including Australian striker Ryan Tappouras, South African forward Makwe Nkoana, and Australian goalkeeper Charlie Prtenjaca. With global flair and rural grit, Warrior FC are here to test what the MWPL truly means when it calls itself Midwest Premier.

The 2025 Gateway North may not have the glamor of long-established rivalries—yet. But in its diversity, ambition, and unpredictability, it’s a microcosm of what the MWPL is becoming: a home for the dreamers, the rebuilders, the developers, and the champions.

Feature Interview: Kenan Malicevic (Cedar Rapids Inferno)

As reigning Gateway Conference champions, Cedar Rapids Inferno are not only being viewed as the team to beat—they are being watched as the team that set the standard. Their rise in 2024 was powered by clinical finishing, team cohesion, and a deep tactical discipline instilled by longtime Head Coach and President Kenan Malicevic, who continues to lead the project with clear intention.

Reflecting on the club’s goals for the 2025 season, Malicevic made it clear: “Our main goal this season is to build on last year’s success while continuing to grow as a club. Defending our title is, of course, a priority, but we’re also focused on improving our overall performances, strengthening team chemistry, and ensuring that our players continue developing.”

Photo: Laura Williams

A deliberate balance is being struck between ambition and evolution. Lessons from the past campaign have been internalized—most notably, the value of resilience and adaptability in a long season. As Malicevic put it, “Last season taught us a lot about resilience and the importance of depth in the squad. We had some tough games where our ability to adapt made the difference, and we want to carry that mindset into this season. Staying consistent, especially in high-pressure situations, will be key for us moving forward.”

Adjustments have been made to the roster in the offseason. Though names have yet to be officially revealed, the leadership remains confident in the changes. “We’ve had some roster changes in the offseason, with a mix of returning players and new additions,” Malicevic said. “We believe these changes will bring fresh energy and keep us competitive.”

The new-look division will bring no shortage of tests. But rather than seeing added competition as just a threat, the Inferno view it as a step forward for the league. “The league continues to get stronger, and we welcome the challenge,” said Malicevic. “With new teams joining, the competition will be even tougher, which is great for the league and for the growth of the sport at this level.”

As for matchdays circled on the calendar, Inferno’s coach didn’t single out any particular rival—but made it clear that the big games bring big opportunity: “Every game matters, but we always look forward to facing top contenders from last season. Those matchups tend to bring out the best in our team, and we know they’ll be crucial for our title defense.”

Internally, the squad is being reminded that last year’s success guarantees nothing. “Success is never guaranteed,” Malicevic emphasized, “so we remind the team that last season’s accomplishments don’t carry over into this year. We focus on maintaining a strong work ethic, setting new challenges, and keeping that hunger to improve. Our team is built on passion and commitment, and we plan to carry that mentality into every game.”

In Cedar Rapids, the mentality of a champion has been carefully cultivated—and in 2025, it will be tested again. But if Malicevic’s words are any indication, the Inferno won’t be content with simply defending their crown—they’ll be aiming to raise the bar once more.

MWPL announces 2025 Conference Alignment

The Midwest Premier League is set for its biggest season yet, with a record 45 clubs set to compete in 2025 following a year of unprecedented expansion. As the league continues to grow, the conference alignments have been adjusted to reflect the increasing number of teams, ensuring a competitive and balanced structure across the region. Here’s how the MWPL will be organized for the 2025 season.

The 2025 season marks a new era for the Midwest Premier League’s Gateway Conference, which has been split into two divisions for the first time. In the Gateway North Division, reigning conference champions Cedar Rapids Inferno will look to defend their 2024 title against familiar opponents like Pearl City SC and Southeast Soccer Academy. They’ll also face fresh competition from four expansion clubs—AFC Omaha, Linoma FC, CB Captains FC, and Warrior FC—who aim to make an immediate impact in their debut MWPL campaigns.

The 2025 season also brings a fresh look to the Gateway Conference with the introduction of the Gateway South Division. Established clubs like AFC Columbia and Club Atletico Saint Louis will lead the charge, but they’ll face a new wave of challengers, including St. Louis Development Academy, BOHFS St. Louis, and Ehtar Belleville FC—who make the jump from the NPSL. With a mix of experienced contenders and ambitious newcomers, the Gateway South Division is set to deliver a highly-competitive season. The first-place teams from each division will play against each other in the first-ever Gateway Conference Championship Game at the conclusion of the regular season.

The 2025 Great Lakes Conference will again be split into two divisions. The Great Lakes East Division brings together some of Michigan’s top amateur clubs in a highly-competitive all-Michigan lineup. Reigning Great Lakes Conference Champions Cedars FC will look to defend their 2024 title against perennial contenders like Inter Detroit and Michigan Stars U23, while familiar names such as Troy United FC, Liquid Football, Michigan Jaguars, and Futsal Factory Academy return to the fold. Adding to the excitement, newcomers FC Pontiac and Legends FC join the mix, eager to make their mark in their debut MWPL campaigns. With a strong blend of championship pedigree and fresh competition, the Great Lakes East Division promises another thrilling season of Midwest Premier League action.

The 2025 Great Lakes West Division looks to be one of the more competitive groups in the league, featuring a strong mix of returning clubs and ambitious newcomers. Holland Rovers and Tulip City United SC continue their local rivalry, while Lansing Common FC and 1927 SC from Fort Wayne, Indiana, add experience and stability to the division. Adding to the intensity, expansion clubs Goshen City FC, Midwest United FC, and Grand Rapids SC enter the fray, each bringing a high level of competition and a desire to make an immediate impact. With a deep pool of talent and a strong regional presence, the Great Lakes West Division is set for an exciting and unpredictable 2025. The first-place teams from the East and West Divisions will play each other in a Great Lakes Conference Championship Game.

The 2025 Heartland Conference is set for another highly-competitive season as the conference continues its system of promotion and relegation between its two divisions. Heartland Division 1 welcomes newly-promoted clubs AFC Roscoe and Green Bay Glory as they test themselves against some of their conference’s most established clubs. Reigning champions RWB Adria Chicago return to defend their title, while Chicago House AC, DeKalb County United, and Bavarian United SC look to challenge for the top spot. Meanwhile, Czarni Jaslo, having narrowly avoided relegation last season, will aim to solidify their place in Division 1. With every team fighting to stay at the top, Heartland Division 1 promises another season of intense competition.

The 2025 Heartland Division 2 season will be a battle for promotion as clubs vie for a spot in the top tier of their conference. Newly-relegated Steel City FC will be eager to make a swift return to Division 1, but they’ll face stiff competition from familiar opponents like Rockford FC, Berber City FC, Chicago Ghost FC, Strikers Fox Valley, and Edgewater Castle. Adding to the mix, newcomers RKC Third Coast II and Chicago City Dutch Lions enter the league looking to make an immediate impact.

With a record-breaking expansion year bringing the Midwest Premier League to an all-time high of 45 clubs, the 2025 season is set to be the league’s most competitive and dynamic yet. The introduction of new teams, the restructuring of conferences, and the continued implementation of promotion and relegation highlight the MWPL’s commitment to its long-term vision. As the league works toward its 2030 Plan, which aims to strengthen regional competition and expand opportunities for clubs, the growing depth and quality of play reflect the steady progress toward that goal. With fresh challenges, renewed rivalries, and more clubs than ever, the 2025 season promises to be a milestone moment in the evolution of the MWPL.

BOHFS St. Louis joins Midwest Premier League for 2025 Season

The Midwest Premier League (MWPL) is pleased to announce BOHFS St. Louis as the latest addition to its growing roster of clubs. Based in St. Louis, Missouri, BOHFS St. Louis has been a fixture in the local lower league soccer scene and is now stepping up to join the MWPL’s Gateway Conference for the 2025 season.

Alen Bradaric, President of BOHFS St. Louis, expressed enthusiasm about the club’s new venture. “We are grateful and excited to be joining the Midwest Premier League. Our goal is to provide talented players in the St. Louis Metro a platform to showcase their abilities in a competitive setting,” Bradaric said.

The addition of BOHFS St. Louis further strengthens the MWPL’s presence in the St. Louis region, a hotbed for soccer talent and development. Steve Beckman, President of the MWPL, welcomed the club to the league. “We welcome BOHFS St. Louis as the final 2025 expansion club in our Gateway Conference and look forward to them contributing to the league’s growing presence in the St. Louis area,” Beckman stated.

BOHFS St. Louis’ move to the MWPL underscores the club’s ambition to compete at a higher level and provide enhanced opportunities for players in the St. Louis Metro area. Their entry marks another step forward for the MWPL as it continues to expand its footprint and offer a competitive platform for top-tier amateur soccer.

BOHFS St. Louis Social Media
Instagram
Facebook
X

The Midwest Premier League is an American regional soccer league run by its member clubs. The goals of the league are to focus on sustainability, the promotion of high-level competition between clubs, and the support of all of its members through the sharing of ideas and best practices. The league’s 2024 season involved 37 clubs from 6 different states and included the league’s first-ever system of promotion and relegation.

Interested clubs can follow this link for more information.

Ehtar Belleville FC set to join the Midwest Premier League in 2025

The Midwest Premier League (MWPL) is excited to announce Ehtar Belleville FC as its newest member club, beginning play in the 2025 season. Based in Belleville, Illinois, the team will compete in the Gateway Conference and host home matches at Althoff Catholic High School.

Ehtar Belleville FC brings a wealth of experience to the league, led by Director of Coaching Andrew Crawford. Crawford’s extensive soccer background includes roles as Chief Operating Officer of Gateway Rush Soccer Club, Director of Coaching at Metro East Legacy, and assistant coach for McKendree University’s women’s soccer program. The club plans to announce tryout dates for early spring 2025, providing opportunities for local talent to join the squad.

“We are thrilled to join the Midwest Premier League as its newest expansion team,” said Ian Thurlow, President and Director of Operations for Ehtar Belleville FC. “This is an incredible opportunity for our players to compete at a high level and to showcase their passion and talents right here in the Heartland. We look forward to representing Belleville and making a meaningful impact both on and off the field as part of the MWPL family.“

Steve Beckman, President of the MWPL, shared his enthusiasm for the league’s newest addition. “We’re happy to welcome Ehtar Belleville FC and their motivated group of administrators to the MWPL. Their community-focused efforts are a great fit with our league and will help them thrive in the Gateway Conference.”

Ehtar Belleville FC’s entry into the league reinforces the MWPL’s commitment to expanding opportunities for competitive soccer throughout the Midwest. Soccer fans in Belleville and the surrounding communities can look forward to an exciting season for the club in 2025.

Ehtar Belleville FC Social Media
Website
Instagram
X
Facebook

The Midwest Premier League is an American regional soccer league run by its member clubs. The goals of the league are to focus on sustainability, the promotion of high-level competition between clubs, and the support of all of its members through the sharing of ideas and best practices. The league’s 2024 season involved 37 clubs from 6 different states and included the league’s first-ever system of promotion and relegation.

Interested clubs can follow this link for more information.

St. Louis Development Academy set to join the MWPL

The Midwest Premier League (MWPL) has announced the addition of St. Louis Development Academy (STLDA) for the 2025 season. Based in Maryland Heights, a suburb of St. Louis, Missouri, STLDA is renowned for its robust youth soccer programs and a commitment to developing talent across all age groups.

This move marks a significant step for STLDA, providing a platform to showcase its players at a high level while aligning with its mission to foster growth through competition. The club will compete in the Gateway Conference, which features a strong lineup of teams from the region.

“St. Louis Development Academy joining the MWPL adds another pathway to high-level competition for players in the greater St. Louis area,” said MWPL President Steve Beckman. “The players available to them should help them compete right away in the Gateway Conference.“

STLDA Technical Director Dan Donigan expressed his enthusiasm about the club’s acceptance into the league. “We are always looking for platforms and leagues to further enhance our club for player development, competition, and culture. We are excited to be accepted into the MWPL. We are looking forward to a season of great competition, growth, and development for our players and coaches. This opportunity aligns with our club’s mission and vision.”

With a tradition of producing top talent, STLDA is well-positioned to make an impact in the MWPL. Their entry into the league underscores the MWPL’s dedication to expanding opportunities for player development across the Midwest.

The Midwest Premier League is an American regional soccer league run by its member clubs. The goals of the league are to focus on sustainability, the promotion of high-level competition between clubs, and the support of all of its members through the sharing of ideas and best practices. The league’s 2024 season involved 37 clubs from 6 different states and included the league’s first-ever system of promotion and relegation.

Interested clubs can follow this link for more information.

CB Captains FC joins the Midwest Premier League

The Midwest Premier League (MWPL) is excited to announce CB Captains Football Club from Council Bluffs (Iowa) as the latest addition to its Gateway Conference for the 2025 season. This expansion marks a significant step for soccer in western Iowa, as CB Captains FC becomes the first club of its kind in the history of Council Bluffs.

Taylor Stanton, President of CB Captains FC, expressed his enthusiasm for the opportunity: “It’s been a long time coming for this club to get an announcement as great as this one. We have been working day by day to create a great product on and off the field and couldn’t be more excited about this opportunity. This club is pioneering a new youthful high-level soccer experience for Council Bluffs, being the first club of this level in this amazing city’s history.”

The addition of CB Captains FC to the Gateway Conference coincides with the recent announcement of AFC Omaha’s entry, located just a few miles away in Nebraska. MWPL President Steve Beckman sees this as a perfect setup for a budding local rivalry: “Pairing CB Captains FC with fellow expansion club AFC Omaha brings exciting opportunities for the MWPL to their area. Having two strong clubs just a few miles apart should foster a lot of camaraderie between them and encourage a derby-like atmosphere when they play each other in the league.”

With CB Captains FC joining the league, the MWPL continues its mission of expanding competitive, community-based soccer across the Midwest, now reaching into Western Iowa and fostering local soccer connections across the region.

CB Captains FC Social Media

Facebook
YouTube
Instagram
Threads

The Midwest Premier League is an American regional soccer league run by its member clubs. The goals of the league are to focus on sustainability, the promotion of high-level competition between clubs, and the support of all of its members through the sharing of ideas and best practices. The league’s 2024 season involved 37 clubs from 6 different states and included the league’s first-ever system of promotion and relegation.

The expansion deadline for the 2025 MWPL season is December 1st, 2024. Interested clubs can follow this link for more information.

MWPL welcomes AFC Omaha

The Midwest Premier League (MWPL) has today announced the addition of AFC Omaha to its ranks for the 2025 season, marking a historic milestone as the first MWPL club based in Nebraska. Originally founded as AFC South Bay in California, the club has relocated to Omaha and rebranded to reflect its new home. AFC Omaha is set to compete in the league’s Gateway Conference, making Nebraska the seventh state represented in the MWPL.

The AFC front office shared their excitement for this new chapter: “It is with great excitement that we announce the beginning of a new era for the AFC organization. AFC South Bay will be moving forward as AFC Omaha, bringing our exciting style of fútbol to Omaha, Nebraska. We are thrilled to begin league play in the Midwest Premier League in May of 2025. MWPL is well known for their high-quality of competition on the pitch and their desire to maintain professional front office and game day standards. We are excited to be a part of the growth the league is experiencing and give the incredible Omaha talent a platform to display their skills. We look forward to representing the city of Omaha with honor and pride.”

Steve Beckman, President of the MWPL, welcomed AFC Omaha to the league and highlighted the club’s potential impact: “AFC Omaha’s ambitious leadership group will be an asset to our league and will help cultivate a high level of competition in their area. Adding them to our Gateway Conference expands the league’s footprint into Nebraska and presents new opportunities for clubs in that state.”

With the addition of AFC Omaha, MWPL continues to grow, bringing competitive, community-based soccer to more regions and connecting fans and players alike across the USASA Region II.

The Midwest Premier League is an American regional soccer league run by its member clubs. The goals of the league are to focus on sustainability, the promotion of high-level competition between clubs, and the support of all of its members through the sharing of ideas and best practices. The league’s 2024 season involved 37 clubs from 6 different states and included the league’s first-ever system of promotion and relegation.

The expansion deadline for the 2025 MWPL season is December 1st, 2024. Interested clubs can follow this link for more information.

Adnan Bašić: MWPL 2024 Season Recap

Hello, my name is Adnan Bašić, and welcome to the third and final Midwest Premier League whiparound of the year!

It feels like the 2024 MWPL season only kicked off the other day, but we’ve already come to the conclusion of each and every conference. There were some big winners, some disappointing seasons, and a whole lot of narrative at the end of the day

So, what exactly took place? Let’s find out. 

A tour of the standings

There’s no need to do a tour of the standings at this point because all the winners will be mentioned in their own sections anyway. This article’s long enough already.

Job Done

The last time we checked in on the Cedar Rapids Inferno, they were on the verge of securing the Gateway Conference title thanks to their superb start to the season.

They did not bottle it, and a draw on the road against AFC Columbia was enough to be crowned champions with two matches to spare. 

“It was cool to do it at home. We would’ve liked to do it with three points, but that’s whatever. It was nice to see how dominant the season was, and maybe it even would’ve been nice to have a bit more of a challenge at the end,” said club owner and head coach Kenan Malicevic. “The good thing is it let me play some of the younger players during the final stretch. Columbia is a good team, and even though it was a tie it still felt like a win because we won the championship.”

Since the Inferno had been so good, they were able to enjoy themselves during the final few games and not have to worry about picking up any points. That also allowed them to send away some of their star players while rewarding their lesser-used talent with minutes on the field.

“It was a wonderful feeling as a coach to start younger players, high school players who don’t usually have that experience of starting games,” said Malicevic. “I got to rest some of the older guys who we leaned on, and for the first time I was able to tell the guys to go on vacation. They now have time to rest up before they go back to college, and it was all really nice.”

The Greatest in the Lakes

The battles for the Great Lakes East and West divisions were both exciting ones, which set the stage for a thrilling finale.

In the end it was the representatives from the east who picked up the title, as Cedars FC defeated Northern Indiana FC 3-1 in a fun affair.

Cedars had to fight until the final day to win the East Division. They were involved in a really tight race with Michigan Stars U23, which meant they went into their final two division games knowing they’d have to win both of them. They did just that, and in style too.

The penultimate fixture was a 5-1 win at home against Thundercats SC. That set the stage for a final away day against Troy United FC that resulted in another four-goal victory and the division championship.

“It was good to see the performance the boys put together on the final day to secure the top of the table. We knew going into our last three games that we would need nine points out of nine to secure the division,” said Salvatore Piraine. “Not only did we achieve that goal, but we did so by scoring 10 goals and only conceding 2. It was a masterclass performance from the group.”

That was only step one. Then came the match for the Great Lakes Conference championship, which was an especially tough test for a Cedars team that had to get the job done on the road.

“Going into the final match vs Northern Indiana FC, we knew that it would be a massive challenge. Playing away on a massive grass pitch is something that we were not accustomed to. We gave very specific instructions to the boys before the match on how we want to address our opponents and the pitch size,” said Piraine. “It took us a bit to get acclimated to the opponents, but once we drew the score to 1-1, we knew we had a great chance of imposing our game and frustrating our opponents. The second half was a great team performance, and the last 10 minutes were very exciting, which is exactly what a championship match should be like!”

While those 90 minutes in particular were what won them the conference title, it was simply a culmination of all the hard work they put in as an organization.

“The support from our fans, board members, players and coaching staff is massively important to me. This championship was achieved because of all those things mentioned above and bringing it all together in the very end,” said Piraine. “We set a goal in the beginning when I got hired in, and that was for us to believe in the players that are attending training and committed to the group despite not always being chosen for the 18. We used a large player pool to achieve this and I would not have it any other way.”

How do you say “remontada” in Croatian?

For most of the campaign, it felt like this section would be highlighting Chicago House AC or Bavarian United SC. Those two clubs had been leading the way in the Heartland Conference’s Division 1, and things seemed set for a two-horse race.

Then RWB Adria locked in.

They lost to the Bavarians on matchweek three, and two games later they were held to a draw against DeKalb County United. This put them firmly behind the eight ball, especially with how well House had been doing.

Adria needed to win all five of their next games to have any real hope of stealing the title, with two of those matches against Chicago. And that’s exactly what they did.

RWB Adria’s road began with a victory on the road against House, and it concluded with a home win versus the same opposition. Technically speaking, Adria only needed to not lose by two or more goals on the final day to finish in 1st, but they still beat Chicago regardless, sealing a remarkable comeback story in the process.

“It was a tough game, it went how we expected. They’re a great team, we won 1-0 against them before, and they’re a good opponent. Five games ago we knew we needed to win all of them, we were playing five finals,” said coach Julio Rosales. “The kids here do a great job, it was very impressive because of how hard the guys were working in practice, giving it 100% every day. They deserve this.”

“It means a lot. We’ve been in the league since the beginning, and we’ve always been the bridesmaid, but now we’re the bride. We’re not the prettiest group, but we’re the bride now,” said team president Ante Loncar, who also shouted out a helping hand. “Us and DeKalb were the two hottest teams to end the season. I got to give them credit, they scalped House away, they took a point from Bavarians, and they took a point from us. That opened the title race and made it interesting.”

Speaking of DeKalb, they had a solid season, especially compared to what many were expecting. They were viewed as real relegation candidates, but they ended the year in 4th and were seven points clear of the drop.

“Staying up helps validate the fact that you’re doing things the right way. It feels great, and it’s a cool thing that the league is doing pro/rel,” said DeKalb president John Hall. “We were top five the last two seasons, so it’s technically an improvement. Ultimately it’s a credit to the coaches and the players and their commitment. We’re keeping the ball rolling in the right direction, and those late-season wins get everyone excited for next season already.”

Sinking Steel

As lovely as promotion and relegation is to have, there’s always going to be the one major drawback to it. Someone’s going to get their heart broken. Someone’s got to be the one to get sent down.

That ultimately proved to be Steel City FC.

While they only picked up four points from their 12 games, they were far from being the punching bag of the division. They started the season with a classic match against Chicago House AC, but failed to get any sort of result from the contest. 

That was pretty much the story of their season. Only two of their losses were by more than two goals, and each of their final three contests ended in a 2-1 defeat. Their last stand was also their most devastating, as they had the lead in a relegation battle versus Czarni Jaslo, and a win would’ve been enough to secure safety. They just couldn’t hold on, though.

That means they’ll be in the 2nd division next campaign, but there’s still genuine hope and excitement for the future. 

“This season was all about us not finishing our chances and not closing games out,” said head coach Nigel Dillard. “Based on our talent on paper, we were just as talented as anyone in the league. Sometimes things just didn’t go our way. We’ll learn from it, especially because our average age was about 21, we’ve had a lot of young players. I believe next season we’ll come out strong.”

“Everyone was pretty upset when we were relegated, but we’re a strong and resilient bunch. I don’t let things affect me as a coach, I don’t feel like a failure because I’m always trying to get better and improve the team. The attitude of the boys reflects that,” said Dillard. “We’re excited to try and get promoted next year.”

One of the best things about Steel City has been the work they do off the pitch, specifically their social media accounts.

Plenty of lower league teams struggle to capitalize on the potential social media has, and it’s enough for many of them to simply post the team’s score and schedule. Steel City does so much more.

They tell stories. If you see one of their posts before or after a game, it’s closer to a short essay than it is a statement of fact. It’s well-written, it draws the emotion out of their matches, and it’s a joy to read every time. As a journalist myself, real recognizes real.

“The social media work is just a part of the club’s overall ethos. It’s all kind of tied together, and it comes back to what we’re trying to accomplish,” said chairman Ivaldo Basso. “The creation of the club was to try and be like a minor league baseball team. Those teams have thousands of fans, and they look and feel like a legitimate family product. They have a loyal following that cares about the team, the players, and the stories.”

“There’s not enough stories being told at this level. We watch sports because of the stories. American football is really popular, but a new league that’s not the NFL always fails because no one wants to watch a team or league that they know nothing about. If there’s no storyline, they won’t care,” said Basso. “Only a few take the time to tell these stories that people can get attached to. It’s a lot of fun, especially at this level with the players and the stories they have. They all have jobs and work hard. We love to pay them back for their work and highlight their accomplishments.”

While it will be sad to see Steel City FC depart the first division, they’ll certainly add a level of talent and excitement to the second division.

Up and Up

There will be two teams replacing them in the first division, and those teams are AFC Roscoe and the Green Bay Glory.

The two sides made hot starts to the season. Green Bay scored 12 goals in their three matches, and they won every game until they came up against Roscoe, who went on a run of six straight victories after an opening day draw.

Roscoe never really slowed up, losing only once during their campaign. That led to them storming to the league title, which is an added bonus on top of securing a spot in the first division.

“It’s huge for us. Our goal was promotion to start the year, and after the first few games our new aim was to win the division,” said Adam Nijhawan. “It was a big moment. We put a big focus on recruiting in the offseason, and we had a large group of players that all contributed to this. It’s a testament to the hard work the board members have done, and the winning culture is contagious, and were looking to build on it. It was a real group effort.”

One of the big reasons for their success was the efforts of Morais Lee, who led the way with nine goals over the course of the year, winning the Golden Boot in Heartland Division 2.

“It was my first season with the team, and it was only possible because of them. I took things one game at a time, and that really helped me focus and put everything together by the end of it,” said Lee. “I am a passionate player, and I wanted to make sure they were a team that had a drive to improve when I joined. We’re a competitive team, and everyone there played with a passion and a purpose. We played as a team that wanted to win something, and that made us strive toward the future.”

Green Bay slowed down a bit towards the end of the campaign, but their work had pretty much been done already. They secured the number two spot in the standings, which also gave them promotion.

“Securing promotion in our inaugural season is a monumental achievement for Green Bay Glory. It’s a testament to the hard work, dedication, and passion of everyone involved with the club, from the players and coaching staff to the supporters and community,” said co-founder Kerry Geocaris. “This achievement brings immense pride to the club and our community, solidifying our place among the top teams in the league.”

“Considering the short amount of time we had to pull everything together, the way this group has bonded and performed is truly special. We had players from various soccer backgrounds, but what stood out was their character and dedication. This group quickly became a family, unified by a shared goal and an unbreakable spirit,” said co-founder Kerry Geocaris. “Despite challenges like rain at every home game, balancing jobs, and 6am practices, with some of our guys driving an hour or two to make it, everyone showed up with incredible commitment. The support from the community has been overwhelming, and we’re incredibly grateful for it. This season has laid a strong foundation, and we’re excited to see how our team and community can grow together from here.”

That nod to the future is an important one. Making it to the first division is one thing, but staying there is going to be another challenge altogether. Both clubs are ready for the fight, though.

“The offseason will be crucial for both our players and the organization,” said Geocaris. “For the players, it’s a time to recharge and focus on their individual goals, whether that’s gearing up for their college seasons or navigating the next phases of their lives. As an organization, the offseason is a time for us to plan and strategize for the future. We’re focused on expanding our mission of serving the community and creating opportunities for success through soccer. The groundwork we lay now will be essential for sustaining the momentum we’ve built and taking Green Bay Glory to new heights.”

“It’s a huge offseason. We have a solid core now, and recruitment will be as important as ever,” said AFC Roscoe’s Nijhawan. “We’re looking at opportunities for our players to help them build their careers, and were finding smaller pieces to fill some holes and add to the team. We’re excited for it.”

A note from the writer

Heyo, Adnan here, the dude who wrote this whole thing. 

I just wanted to leave a quick thank you for everyone that’s supported my coverage of the league these past few months, and thank the league for allowing me to write these recap articles. It means a lot.

I hope to see everyone again next summer.
Take care. 

Featured Article Image: Denise Allen Photography

Junction FC’s Kyle Johnson Crowned Top Goalscorer of 2024 Gateway Conference, Wins Ruben Mendoza Golden Boot Award

In a remarkable debut season, Kyle Johnson of Junction FC has been crowned the top goalscorer of the 2024 Gateway Conference, earning him the Ruben Mendoza Golden Boot Award. Johnson’s impressive tally of 8 goals not only secured his spot as the league’s top marksman but also highlighted his vital role in Junction FC’s first-ever season in the Midwest Premier League (MWPL).

Despite Junction FC finishing 7th in the league, Johnson’s goal-scoring prowess stood out, propelling his team to be one of the highest-scoring sides in the conference. His performance was instrumental in keeping Junction FC competitive throughout a season marked by first-year challenges and growth.

Reflecting on the season, Kyle Johnson expressed his gratitude and optimism for the future, saying, “Although we had some rough stretches, the season ended up going pretty well considering we were a first-year team. I appreciate all the work that coaches and administration did to even make this season possible for us. All my teammates were great players and were fun to play with, and of course, I wouldn’t have been the top goal scorer without them. Also, shoutout to my teammates and coaches at Wheaton College. Super excited to get going again this fall. Lastly, I thank God for blessing me with the ability to play soccer!”

Johnson’s achievement is even more impressive given the level of competition in the Gateway Conference this season. Following him closely in the top goalscorer rankings were a trio of Cedar Rapids Inferno players, each with 6 goals: Beni Mubake, Boris Dimitror, and Nico Galvez Ortiz. The Iowa-based team was the dominant force in the conference, finishing the season with just one loss in their final game.

Kyle Johnson’s outstanding debut in the MWPL has certainly made him a player to watch in the coming years. As Junction FC looks to build on their inaugural season, the young forward’s contribution will undoubtedly be important to their future success.