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Chicago House Athletic Club is an American semi-professional men's soccer club owned by Laurence Girard and led by CEO Peter Wilt.[1] The club is based in Chicago, Illinois. They began play in August 2021 as a professional club, competing in the third-tier National Independent Soccer Association (NISA).[2][3] After being expelled from the league in January 2022, the club currently plays in the semi-professional Midwest Premier League.[4]

Key Information

History

[edit]

On September 10, 2020, the National Independent Soccer Association (NISA) announced that an investor group, led by league founder Peter Wilt, had applied for a club to play in the Chicago market.[5] Wilt had previously attempted to start a new Chicago team in 2016 with the North American Soccer League (NASL) and more recently in 2018, following his departure from NISA, successfully started the Madison, Wisconsin based Forward Madison FC in USL League One.[6][7] Other investors included Bruce Merivale-Austin.[8]

On November 5, NISA officially announced the team had been accepted with an aim to begin play in Fall 2021.[9] In the following months, the team asked fans to submit potential team names that related to the history and culture of Chicago. The team selected 68 finalists and held a fan advisory poll bracket, dubbed "Moniker Madness", to determine the most popular option.[10] The winner of the poll, "Chicago House" was unveiled as the official name on February 23, 2021, alongside the team crest and colors.[11][12]

On January 27, 2021, the team confirmed that it would play home matches at SeatGeek Stadium in Bridgeview, Illinois.[13] On February 2, former Chicago Fire FC player and all-time appearance leader C. J. Brown was announced as the team's first technical director and head coach.[14]

On May 1, 2021, the team announced that Lindsey Morgan Sacks would become the new primary team owner, taking control of the club from Bruce Merivale-Austin.[15]

On July 9, 2021, the team played their official first match in club history, losing 2–0 to amateur side FC Milwaukee Torrent in the 2021 NISA Independent Cup.[citation needed]

Two weeks later, the House defeated Union Dubuque FC by a score of 5–0 to end the Independent Cup campaign with a first win in club history.[citation needed]

The club finished 6th in its inaugural season, posting a 7-2-9 record. Wojciech Wojcik was the team's top scorer, notching eight goals.[citation needed]

Behind the scenes, ownership was feuding with the league; NISA reported that neither Chicago House nor New Amsterdam FC (owned by Sacks's husband Laurence Girard) had paid their league dues for 2021. In a mid-December email to the NISA board of governors, Gerard threatened to pull his clubs from competition unless he was granted loans from the league to run them.[16] Girard would later assert that he himself is the primary team owner and controlling shareholder of Chicago House AC, with "full voting control of the club".[17]

On January 25, 2022, the league issued a press release to announce that neither New Amsterdam nor Chicago House would be playing in the U.S. Open Cup.[18] The 2022 NISA schedule was released the following month, with both NAFC and Chicago House removed. The clubs responded by filing suit in Delaware's Chancery Court, seeking to both be reinstated.[19] New Amsterdam went on hiatus, but in March 2022 the House announced via social media that the club would join the semi-professional Midwest Premier League for the upcoming season.[20]

The House announced its initial Midwest Premier League schedule via social media and also announced it would play its home matches at Stuart Field, on the campus of Illinois Institute of Technology.[21]

The House finished 4th in the MWPL in 2022 with a 5–5–1 record. At the end of the season, the club announced its intention to compete in local qualifiers for the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. After receiving a bye in the first round, CHAC defeated 1927 SC on penalties after a 1–1 draw, Metro Louisville FC 2–1, and Brockton FC United in another penalty shootout to advance to the competition proper. Chicago House then defeated National Amateur Cup champions Bavarian United SC 1–0 to record its first-ever cup win and move on to the second round and face Forward Madison FC of USL League 1. After trailing 2–0 at halftime, Chicago scored two goals to force extra time and a third to win 3–2 and advance to the third round. They faced Major League Soccer side Chicago Fire FC at the House's former home SeatGeek Stadium on April 26, where their cup run ended with a 3-0 loss.[22]

The club announced its 2023 MWPL schedule via social media and that it would play its home matches at DePaul College Prep on its new stadium in Roscoe Village on the North Side near Lane Tech.[23]

After two seasons at DePaul Prep, the club announced via social media it was relocating to Langhorst Field on the campus of Elmhurst College starting in 2025, joining it's women's team.[24]

Club identity

[edit]

The club's name, Chicago House Athletic Club, was announced on February 21, 2021, and refers to the Chicago house style of music. It was one of 400 entries submitted for a public contest; the 68 finalist names were picked through public votes in a bracket tournament.[25] The club's logo uses the municipal device of Chicago and the letterforms suggest the city skyline. The team's colors are "Patina Green", black, and "deep rust" (a shade of orange).[26]

Players and staff

[edit]

Current roster

[edit]
As of November 19, 2024[27]

Note: Flags indicate national team as defined under FIFA eligibility rules; some limited exceptions apply. Players may hold more than one non-FIFA nationality.

No. Pos. Nation Player
2 DF  USA Jack Kramer
3 GK  USA Ryan Grady
5 FW  USA Aryan Kamdar
6 DF  USA Jasper Waddington
7 MF  USA Gilberto Angeles
9 FW  USA Nico Williams
10 FW  USA Kikis Avalos
11 FW  USA Alejandro Mentasti
12 FW  USA Ugochukwu Archara
14 MF  USA AR Smith (captain)
15 DF  USA Pau Chacon
No. Pos. Nation Player
17 GK  USA Tony Halterman
19 FW  USA Isaac Carnalla
20 DF  USA Austin Montejano
21 DF  USA Daniel Hayes
22 MF  USA Jhon Alzate
23 MF  USA Aaron Moreno
24 FW  USA Zeddy Adlam
26 MF  USA Elias McCloud
27 MF  USA Damian Iamarino
30 DF  USA Daniel Lacost

Coaches

[edit]
  • Head coach: Shannon Seymour
  • Assistant coach: Jacob Rutledge
  • Athletic trainer: Luis Perez

Front office

[edit]
  • Primary owner: Laurence Girard
  • President: Peter Wilt
  • Chief operating officer: Brian Koenig

Head coach history

[edit]
Dates Name Nationality
2021 C. J. Brown  United States
2022–2024 Matt Poland  United States
2024 Spencer Pappas  United States
2024–present Shannon Seymour  United States

Record

[edit]

Year-by-year

[edit]

Men's team

[edit]
Season Record Position U.S.
Open Cup 		Average
attendance 		Top goalscorer
Tier League Conf/Div Pld W D L GF GA Pts Conf Ovr Name Goals
2021 3 NISA — 18 7 2 9 18 26 23 — 6th Not held 1,098 Poland Wojciech Wojcik 8
2022 — MWPL West 11 5 5 1 37 19 20 4th — Ineligible
2023 Heartland 10 5 3 2 34 11 18 3rd — Round 3 United States Kikis Avalos 9
2024 Heartland Division 1 10 6 1 3 21 12 19 3rd — Round 1 United States Kikis Avalos 8

Women's team

[edit]
Season Record Position Playoffs
Tier League Conf/Div Pld W D L GF GA Pts
2025 4 WPSL North Lakes/Lake Michigan 10 5 1 4 21 12 16 3rd did not qualify

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Chicago House AC

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from Grokipedia
Chicago House Athletic Club, commonly known as Chicago House AC, is a semi-professional soccer club based in the Chicago metropolitan area that fields men's and women's teams competing in the Midwest Premier League and Women's Premier Soccer League, respectively. The club plays its home matches at Langhorst Field in Elmhurst, Illinois and emphasizes soccer as a vehicle for social change, with programs including youth academies, U-23 teams, and an inaugural semi-professional futsal season in the Futsal Championship Series starting in 2025–2026. Founded in 2021, Chicago House AC was established to bring professional-level soccer to while prioritizing and social conscience, marking it as the city's third professional soccer club at the time of its launch. The club's name draws direct inspiration from Chicago's pioneering genre, which emerged in the city during the , symbolizing a commitment to inclusivity and cultural roots. Originally announced as a member of the (NISA) with plans for an inaugural season in August 2021, the club faced challenges including expulsion from NISA in early 2022 and transitioned to the semi-professional that year. Owned by a group of investors including Laurence Girard and led by managing partner, president, and CEO Peter Wilt—a veteran soccer executive who co-founded the —the club operates with a mission to advance , racial equity, and meaningful inclusion through . Its core initiatives include free youth clinics, scholarships for underserved communities, partnerships with organizations like Street Soccer USA, and staff training on equity, aiming to build a multi-sport "House" that encompasses soccer, , esports, and parasports while fostering belonging across Chicagoland. In recent seasons, the men's team has been a consistent contender in the Midwest Premier League's Heartland Division, clinching the Division 1 title in 2025 and participating in qualifying rounds for the 2026 tournament, advancing to the third round in November 2025, while the women's team competes in the WPSL's North Lakes .

History

Founding and Launch

Chicago House AC was established in November 2020 by Peter Wilt, a veteran soccer executive and co-founder of the (NISA), along with a group of initial investors including local, national, and international backers. The club's formation aimed to bring professional soccer to with a community-oriented approach, building on Wilt's experience launching teams like the Chicago Fire and . On November 5, 2020, NISA officially approved the Chicago-based team's application for membership, positioning it for a professional debut in the Fall 2021 season. Wilt served as the club's managing partner, president, and CEO from inception, overseeing operations as a Public Benefit Corporation dedicated to transparency and societal impact. Pre-launch efforts included soliciting fan input for the team name and branding through ChicagoNISA.com, with submissions open until November 22, 2020, and a voting poll running into 2021. The selected name, Chicago House AC, was announced on February 23, 2021, drawing brief inspiration from Chicago's scene as a symbol of unity and . The club's underscores a focus on and equity, committing to "leverage the power of sport to advance , racial equity, and inclusion—creating a welcoming and empowering for all." Preparations accelerated in early 2021 with the initiation of training sessions and the first player signings to build the roster for the inaugural season. The club announced its home venue as in , on February 23, 2021, providing a professional facility for matches starting in August. These steps laid the groundwork for Chicago House AC's entry into professional play, emphasizing community engagement alongside athletic development.

NISA Participation

Chicago House AC entered the (NISA) as an expansion team for the 2021 Fall Season, marking the club's debut in professional soccer. The team began competitive play in the NISA Independent Cup in July 2021, ahead of the league proper starting in August. Their inaugural match occurred on , 2021, resulting in a 0–2 loss to at Hart Park in . This defeat highlighted early challenges in integrating into the professional landscape, with the club conceding goals from Danny Lent and Sebastian Gomola. Two weeks later, Chicago House AC secured their first victory in club history on July 31, 2021, defeating Union Dubuque FC 5–0 in the NISA Independent Cup at Dubuque Soccer Complex. These cup matches served as preparation for the Fall Season, where the team played at in . In May 2021, prior to the season's start, Sacks assumed the role of majority owner, succeeding Bruce Merivale-Austin and providing stability during the club's launch. Under her leadership and with president Peter Wilt overseeing operations, the team focused on alongside on-field performance. The 2021 Fall Season commenced on August 7, 2021, with a 0–1 away loss to , followed by a home opener on August 21 against FC. Chicago House AC competed in an 18-match schedule against nine other teams, finishing sixth in the standings with a record of 7 wins, 2 draws, and 9 losses, accumulating 23 points while scoring 18 goals and conceding 26. This mid-table position reflected a solid debut, with notable home strength (5 wins in 9 games) despite away struggles. The season concluded on November 7, 2021, with a 1–0 victory over , securing their final win. Chicago House AC's tenure in NISA ended abruptly in January 2022 when the club was expelled from the league due to unresolved financial and operational disputes, including unpaid dues and compliance issues. NISA cited the team's failure to meet league standards, leading to their removal alongside FC from the 2022 season schedule announced that month. This expulsion stemmed from broader tensions over financial transparency and obligations, damaging the club's professional status and prompting legal action that was ultimately unsuccessful. The decision relegated Chicago House AC to semi-professional competition, concluding their brief but eventful participation in NISA after just one season.

Transition to Midwest Premier League

Following its expulsion from the (NISA) in early 2022 due to ownership disputes and unpaid fees, Chicago House AC sought a new competitive home in the semi-professional ranks. The club announced its affiliation with the (MWPL) on March 16, 2022, marking a shift to regional amateur competition while maintaining its commitment to community engagement and initiatives. This move allowed the team to stabilize operations and focus on development in a league spanning seven Midwestern states. In its inaugural MWPL season in 2022, Chicago House AC competed in the West Division, finishing fourth with a record of 5 wins, 5 draws, and 1 loss, accumulating 20 points over 11 matches. The following year, 2023, saw improved consistency in the Heartland Division, where the team placed third with 5 wins, 3 draws, and 2 losses for 18 points in 10 games, highlighted by qualification for the U.S. Open Cup and an advance to the Round of 32, where they faced MLS side . The 2024 campaign built on this momentum, securing another third-place finish in Heartland Division 1 with 6 wins, 1 draw, and 3 losses for 19 points, though the team exited the U.S. Open Cup in the first round against 2. In 2025, Chicago House AC finished second in the Heartland Division with 26 points, qualifying for the U.S. Open Cup preliminary rounds. Ownership stabilized under primary owner Laurence Girard, who assumed full control in 2022, alongside Peter Wilt serving as president and CEO to guide strategic growth. The club has maintained venue consistency at SeatGeek Stadium in Bridgeview, Illinois, providing a professional setting for home matches and fostering fan accessibility.

Club Identity

Name and Cultural Inspiration

The name "Chicago House Athletic Club," often abbreviated as Chicago House AC, draws direct inspiration from the city's pioneering role in the genre, which emerged in the late and as a vibrant expression of Chicago's cultural landscape. The full name was officially unveiled on February 23, 2021, following a fan poll that selected "" as the winning entry, reflecting the club's commitment to community involvement from its inception. Chicago house music originated within the city's Black and LGBTQ+ communities, where it served as a form of creative resistance and communal bonding amid social challenges of the era. Pioneered by DJs who blended disco, funk, and electronic elements, the genre took root in underground venues that provided safe spaces for marginalized groups. A key figure in this development was Frankie Knuckles, often called the "Godfather of House Music," who as resident DJ at the Warehouse nightclub from 1977 to 1982 helped define the sound through extended sets that emphasized rhythm, soul, and inclusivity. The term "house" itself derives from this venue, symbolizing a welcoming "home" for diverse dancers and artists who shaped the genre's global influence. By adopting "" in its name, Chicago House AC aligns the with its core mission of fostering belonging, equity, and through soccer, inviting all to join a "" that prioritizes , , and meaningful inclusion across Chicagoland communities. This cultural tie underscores the club's of leveraging sport to advance , diversity, and community upliftment, echoing the inclusive spirit of house music's origins.

Crest, Colors, and Kit

The crest of Chicago House AC was unveiled on , 2021, alongside the official club name, serving as a visual embodiment of the city's cultural and architectural heritage. Designed to unite elements of Chicago's sports, art, music, and legacies, the features a bold, minimalist shield that integrates symbolic motifs reflecting local identity. The club's primary colors—patina green, black, and deep rust—draw inspiration from Chicago's and historical landmarks. Patina green represents the weathered on the lion sculptures at the , black honors foundational figures like and the stark silhouette of the , and deep rust evokes the city's industrial past with its rusted steel and brick structures. These hues are applied consistently across branding to symbolize resilience, community, and transformation. Chicago House AC's kits have evolved to align with its branding and social mission. Initial match kits in the 2021 inaugural season featured the core color palette in home designs dominated by green with black accents. By 2023, the club partnered with Diaza as its official kit supplier, introducing performance-oriented jerseys with sublimated patterns, such as a secondary "" logo in green on the upper back of select models. Kit variations include home kits in green for primary matches, away kits emphasizing deep rust and black for contrasting venues, and third kits occasionally introduced for versatility. Special editions have supported social causes, incorporating thematic elements like pride colors or equity-focused graphics to amplify the club's commitment to inclusion.

Organization and Management

Ownership and Front Office

Chicago House AC operates under a community-focused ownership model that emphasizes , equity, and inclusion, with a diverse group of over 25 individual investors supporting the club's operations. The primary owner is Laurence Girard, who has held this role since 2022, guiding the club's strategic direction amid its transitions in competitive leagues. This structure fosters broad stakeholder involvement, allowing investors from various backgrounds to contribute to the club's mission of building a welcoming environment for players, fans, and the broader Chicagoland community. Leading the front office is Peter Wilt, serving as Managing Partner, President, and CEO since the club's founding in 2021; his extensive experience in launching professional soccer organizations, including the Chicago Fire in , informs the club's administrative and growth strategies. As and , Koenig oversees day-to-day operations, including finance, marketing, and logistical aspects essential to the club's sustainability. The front office also includes specialized roles in operations, marketing, and finance to support the dual men's and women's teams, though no major executive changes have occurred in 2024 or 2025.

Coaching Staff

The coaching staff of Chicago House AC supports both the men's and women's first teams, with a focus on technical development, player welfare, and alignment with the club's mission. As of 2025, the staff emphasizes experienced professionals from diverse backgrounds in the Chicagoland soccer community, contributing to the club's competitive performance in leagues like the (MWPL) for men and the (WPSL) for women. For the men's first team, Shannon Seymour serves as head coach and technical director, a role he assumed in October 2024 after transitioning from player to coach. Seymour, a 27-year-old Bourbonnais, Illinois native and former Chicago House midfielder, brings experience from the U.S. Youth National Teams, Chicago Fire Academy, and Northwestern University, where he honed his playmaking skills. In his first match as head coach, he guided the team to a 3-2 overtime victory in U.S. Open Cup qualifying, advancing to the second matchday. Assisting Seymour is Jacob Rutledge, who holds the position of men's first team assistant coach while also directing the junior academy south program. Rutledge, a longtime club contributor, has been involved in House operations since at least 2023 and focuses on player development and training sessions, as seen in his documentation of US Open Cup preparations. His dual role underscores the club's integration of academy and professional pathways. The women's first team is led by JJ Ruane as and , appointed in November 2024 for the 2025 WPSL season. Ruane brings over 20 years of experience in youth soccer, including as girls' director at Sockers FC , where he coached the 2023 U19 Girls Academy National Champions and 2022 finalists. Holding USSF "A" Youth and National Youth licenses, Ruane has developed numerous college-bound players and secured multiple USYSA National League and state titles. Supporting Ruane is Katie McCue, assistant coach for the women's first team and of the women's U23 side, named in December 2024. McCue, who has been at since 2020 (earning NACC South Division Coach of the Year in 2021), previously assisted at (2017-2020), leading to back-to-back championships and an NCAA first-round appearance. A former at UW-Oshkosh with a degree, she emphasizes tactical and goalkeeping expertise. Shared across both teams is Luis Perez, who serves as goalkeeper coach and athletic trainer, ensuring injury prevention and specialized training for all players. Perez's role supports the club's holistic approach to athlete health, drawing from his certified athletic training background.

Head Coach History

Chicago House AC's head coaching history for the men's team began with the club's inaugural professional season in the National Independent Soccer Association (NISA) in 2021. C. J. Brown, a former Chicago Fire defender and U.S. national team captain, was appointed as the club's first technical director and head coach in February 2021. Under Brown, the team navigated a challenging debut season marked by the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on scheduling, finishing sixth in the NISA Fall standings with a record of 7 wins, 2 draws, and 9 losses across 18 matches. His tenure laid the foundational structure for the club but ended after the season, as Brown returned to the Chicago Fire as an assistant coach in December 2021. Matt Poland succeeded Brown, taking over as head coach in January following the club's expulsion from NISA and transition to the amateur (MWPL). Poland, who had served as an assistant under Brown in , guided the team through three full seasons and part of a fourth, emphasizing and competitive stability in the regional league. During his tenure, Chicago House AC established itself as a consistent contender, qualifying for preliminaries multiple times, including a notable 2023 run where the team advanced to face MLS side after upsetting USL League One's 3-2 in extra time. Poland's overall record across all competitions from to mid-2024 was 21 wins, 10 draws, and 5 losses, reflecting steady improvement and a focus on developing local talent. He departed in 2024 amid the club's push for deeper playoff success. Following Poland's departure in August 2024, interim coaching arrangements were made before Shannon Seymour, a former Chicago House AC player and long-time club staff member, was promoted to head coach and technical director in October 2024, becoming the third full-time leader in the club's history. Seymour's appointment came during a transitional period, building on the foundation established by his predecessors while integrating his experience in youth development and tactical discipline. In his first match in charge, the team secured a narrow overtime victory in U.S. Open Cup qualifying, signaling continuity in the club's competitive ethos. Seymour returned for the 2025 MWPL season, leading the team to second place in the Heartland Division standings with 26 points (from 12 games) as of November 2025, with the season ongoing.
Coach NameYears ActiveRecord (W-D-L, All Competitions)Key Accomplishments
C. J. Brown20217-2-9Guided inaugural NISA season to 6th-place finish; established professional operations.
Matt Poland2022–202421-10-5Multiple MWPL Open Cup qualifications; 2023 upset over to reach MLS matchup.
Shannon Seymour2024–presentOngoing (partial 2024 + 2025 season as of November 2025; e.g., 8-2-2 inferred in 2025 league play)2024 Open Cup qualifying win in debut; second in 2025 Heartland Division with 26 points (12 games) as of November 2025.

Teams and Players

Men's Team Overview and Roster

The men's senior team of Chicago House AC competes in the Heartland Division of the (MWPL), a semi-professional league focused on regional competition in the Midwest. The team plays its home matches at in , which provides a professional-grade facility shared with other local sports organizations. As of November 2025, following the conclusion of the MWPL regular season in August, the roster comprises 25 players, primarily U.S. nationals with limited international representation, including one player from . Recruitment prioritizes local Chicago-area talent and emphasizes diversity to reflect the club's mission of promoting , equity, and inclusion for underserved communities. Notable figures on the team include A.R. Smith, a central who provides in midfield, and leading scorer Ricardo "Kikis" Avalos, who earned the Bob Gansler Sr. Golden Boot Award as the top scorer in the Heartland Division 1 for 2025. The squad balances experienced players with emerging local prospects to build depth across positions.
Player NameJersey Number
Gabe Zorilla#0
Jake Lane#2
Ryan Grady#3
Oscar Montejano#4
John Makowiecki#5
David Abidor#6
Tommy Oros#7
#9
Ricardo "Kikis" Avalos#10
Alejandro Mentasti#11
AR Smith#14
Pau Mateo Chacon#15
Julian Da Silva#16
Jordan Friend#18
Oleh Tymovfi#19
Austin Montejano#20
Aryan Kamdar#21
Jhon Alzate#22
Aaron Moreno#23
Bay Kurtz#24
Dylan Villa#25
Dan LaCost#30
Eric Espinoza#31
Jeremiah Higgins#33
Magloire (Glory) Makila#99
Note: Detailed positions, ages, and previous club information for individual players were not publicly available in verified sources as of November 2025; the table represents the core active squad based on season participation.

Women's Team Overview and Roster

The Chicago House AC women's senior team competes in the (WPSL), affiliated with the North Lakes Conference's Division since the program's inception in 2023. The team shares club resources with the men's side, fostering a unified organizational structure focused on equity and inclusion. Home matches are hosted at Langhorst Field on the campus of , providing a dedicated venue for both senior teams in 2025. Launched in 2023 as part of the club's expansion efforts to promote women's soccer in the Chicagoland area, the team has experienced steady growth, building a competitive roster drawn primarily from local collegiate programs and regional talent pools. This development aligns with AC's mission to champion social justice through athletics, emphasizing player empowerment and community representation. The team competed in the 2025 WPSL season. The 2025 roster features a mix of experienced and emerging players, with many hailing from Midwestern universities such as , , and local high school programs, underscoring the team's role in nurturing regional talent since its 2023 debut. Below is the official roster, listed by jersey number; positions include goalkeepers (e.g., #0 Abby Haskell, #1 Jay Arballo), defenders, midfielders, and forwards, though specific assignments vary by match.
Jersey NumberPlayer Name
#00Caitlin Yurkovich
#0Abby Haskell
#1Jay Arballo
#2Kya Trejo
#3Aleyia Cisneros
#4Danielle Fjeldsted
#5Gracie Cwik
#6Emma Czech
#7Molly Merkel
#8Schuyler Reise
#9Shayna DaSilva
#10Sophia McMillan
#11Monica Correa
#12Mari Williams
#13Veronica Davila
#14Olivia Chianelli
#15Louisa Schreiber
#16Lauren Richards
#17Sophie Kirsten
#18Emily Rossi
#20Sophia Martinez
#21Ella Rucka
#22Maggie Maher
#23Addison Coval
#24Hannah Ku
#25Ella Duckman
#26Brooklyn Ludwig
#27Lily Petrie
#29Alexis Suptela
#90Megan Bergman
#95Mary Fornelli

Youth and Academy Programs

Chicago House AC's youth and academy programs form a structured pathway for player development, emphasizing skill-building, competition, and community integration. The club's initiatives include the U-23 program, academy, and junior academies, which cater to players from through post-high school levels. These programs align with the club's mission of promoting equity and inclusion, providing opportunities particularly for girls and players from underrepresented backgrounds. The U-23 program, launched in the summer of 2022, serves as a bridge for local collegiate and high school graduates aspiring to compete at advanced levels. It features separate men's and women's teams that train twice weekly and play in regional leagues, including a seven-game season on Wednesday nights, supplemented by area scrimmages. Participants pay a summer fee of $500 covering training, games, and uniforms, and can advance to the senior teams through integrated tryouts. The men's U-23 is coached by Colby Newquist and the women's by Katie McCue, with opportunities to train with the first team weekly. The academy enhances technical skills through fast-paced indoor play, welcoming participants of all ages and skill levels, from beginners to semi-professional men's and women's teams. In 2025, the program expanded to , while the semi-pro squads competed in the Futsal Championship Series. This format fosters agility and creativity, serving as a complementary development tool to outdoor soccer. Junior academies encompass the Player Development Program for children as young as two, introducing age-appropriate activities in a supportive environment led by professional coaches, and the Club Academy for competitive play starting at the 7v7 level or for 2017 birth-year players in fall seasons. Age groups include 2-3 (Parent & Child), 3-4 (Intro to Team Play), 4-5 (Skill Development), 6-7 (Building Foundations), and 8-9 (Advanced Skills) for both boys and girls, with Junior Academy commitments structured as eight-week seasons in fall, spring, and summer, requiring individual registration per cycle. High school supplemental tryouts, such as those held in October 2024 for the 2024-2025 season, extend opportunities to older youth. These programs prioritize underserved communities through inclusive access, with free home match admission for academy players and a focus on building confidence among girls and marginalized groups. Enrollment occurs across sites like Plainfield and Lockport, Illinois, with pathways enabling promotions from junior levels to U-23 and senior squads via tryouts.

Performance and Records

Year-by-Year Results (Men's Team)

The men's team of Chicago House AC began competing in professional soccer in 2021, initially in the third-tier (NISA), before transitioning to the semi-professional (MWPL) starting in 2022. This shift allowed the team to maintain competitive play while focusing on and development. The following table summarizes their regular season performance, highlighting a progression toward consistent top-division finishes in the MWPL.
YearLeagueGames PlayedWins-Draws-LossesGoals For / AgainstPointsPosition
2021NISA187-2-921 / 28236th
2022MWPL115-5-125 / 7204th
2023MWPL105-3-228 / 5183rd
2024MWPL106-1-325 / 16193rd
2025MWPL128-2-240 / 22262nd
In 2021, the team did not qualify for the NISA due to their sixth-place finish in a 10-team league. Upon joining the MWPL, Chicago House AC qualified for the postseason each year from to 2025, demonstrating improved consistency and defensive solidity. Notably, in 2024, they advanced to the Heartland Conference Division 1 final but fell 2-1 to RWB Adria Chicago.

Year-by-Year Results (Women's Team)

The Chicago House AC women's team was established in 2023 as an , initially competing on an independent schedule to build foundational experience. Their sole recorded match that year was a friendly against Edgewater Castle, ending in a 0-5 loss, which highlighted the early developmental stage of the program. In 2024, the team transitioned to league play as a WPSL expansion franchise in the North Lakes Conference's Division. This debut season emphasized team building, with notable results including a 1-1 draw against Edgewater Castle on May 11—improving on the previous year's friendly—and a 2-1 victory over Rush on June 21, marking their first competitive win. The squad's off-field contributions were honored with the WPSL "Franchise of the Year" award in the Division, recognizing their commitment to organization and community impact. The 2025 season represented continued progress in the same North Lakes Conference - Lake Michigan Division, with the team showcasing offensive capability in select fixtures, such as a 7-0 win over Milwaukee City A.F.C. on June 1, alongside challenges like a 2-3 loss to on May 18 and a 1-4 defeat to Green Bay Glory on May 25. These results underscored the team's evolving competitiveness within a tough regional landscape.
YearConference/DivisionGP-W-D-LGF/GAPointsPosition
2023IndependentN/AN/AN/AN/A (building phase)
2024North Lakes - N/AN/AN/AN/A (Franchise of the Year award)
2025North Lakes - 10-5-1-421/12163rd

U.S. Open Cup and Other Competitions

Chicago House AC's men's team made a notable run in the , advancing to the Round of 32 as one of the tournament's amateur success stories. In the first round, they defeated 1-0 on March 22 at home, showcasing disciplined defending and a clinical finish. The second round brought an upset victory over side , winning 3-2 after extra time on April 11 in , with goals from multiple contributors highlighting the team's resilience in a high-stakes matchup. Their journey ended in the third round (Round of 32) on April 26, where they fell 3-0 to MLS club at , a result that underscored the gap between amateur and professional levels despite a competitive first half. The saw a shorter campaign for the men's team, exiting in the first round. On March 20, they hosted Madison United FC reserves (MUFC2) and lost 3-0, with the visitors capitalizing on set pieces and counterattacks to advance. This early elimination contrasted with the prior year's progress but aligned with the challenges faced by non-professional entrants. For the , qualified through the (MWPL) as regional representatives but did not advance to the proper rounds after falling in the final qualifying stage. They secured wins in earlier qualifiers, including a 2-0 over Chicago Strikers on October 20, 2024, and a 2-1 triumph against Wisłoka Chicago on November 18, 2024, but were eliminated 5-4 on penalties (0-0 draw) by on December 8, 2024, ending their bid. As of November 2025, the men's team is actively competing in qualifying for the , having routed local rivals Edgewater Castle FC 3-0 in the third qualifying round on November 2 at , positioning them for the final "Win & You're In" round against BOHFS on November 23. Beyond the U.S. Open Cup, Chicago House AC has participated in regional and alternative format tournaments, particularly emphasizing to complement their outdoor programs. The men's semipro team joined the Futsal Champions Series (FCS) for the 2025-26 winter season, marking their inaugural entry into this national competition with home games starting in early November 2025 at dedicated venues in the area; this initiative aims to build technical skills during the off-season. Women's involvement in non-league cups remains limited, with the team focusing primarily on league play in the (WPSL) rather than dedicated cup entries, though they occasionally feature in regional friendlies and developmental tournaments tied to academy outreach.

Community and Social Impact

Philanthropy and Social Justice Initiatives

Chicago House AC has embedded philanthropy and at the core of its operations, guided by a mission to deliver "soccer with a " that extends beyond athletic competition to foster lasting change. The club commits to advancing , racial equity, and meaningful inclusion across Chicagoland, emphasizing fair treatment, equitable opportunities, and support for marginalized groups, including those with disabilities. This approach actively addresses systemic inequalities through advocacy and service, aiming to empower underserved communities while inspiring fans, players, and staff to contribute to positive transformation. A key initiative is the club's partnership with Common Goal, established in 2021 and ongoing as of 2025, through which Chicago House AC pledges 1% of selected revenue streams to the Anti-Racist Project—an action-oriented effort to combat systemic in soccer and society. This commitment includes internal training programs, such as a four-week course that examines personal biases and informs club policies on equity. Additionally, the club supports local nonprofits by donating merchandise and match tickets to help organizations raise funds, build awareness, and strengthen community ties. These efforts align with broader philanthropy goals, including collaborations with grassroots organizations to champion causes like and inclusion. In practice, Chicago House AC demonstrates its dedication through targeted engagements, such as a 2024 visit to Mercy Home for Boys & Girls, where players interacted with youth to promote , , and service to the underserved while emphasizing fun and inspiration. The #OurCityOurHouse campaign, launched for the 2025-2026 semi-pro season, further integrates these values by tying matches to community empowerment and collective action for equity. Through such programs, the club positions itself as a catalyst for social progress, prioritizing empathy and systemic change in all activities.

Community Engagement and Outreach

Chicago House AC emphasizes community engagement through targeted partnerships and programs that promote inclusion, , and access to soccer for underserved groups in the Chicagoland area. The club actively collaborates with local organizations to foster and opportunity, utilizing its platforms to advocate for equitable treatment across society. This includes supporting initiatives that address systemic inequalities and inspiring among players, staff, and fans. A key aspect of the club's outreach involves direct interactions with vulnerable youth populations. In August 2024, players from Chicago House AC, including Damian Iamarino, Jasper Waddington, Daniel Hayes, and Monica Hernandez, visited Mercy Home for Boys & Girls, a nonprofit providing and support for children facing or . During the event at Mercy Home's facility, the athletes shared their personal soccer journeys, engaged in an hour-long game with the youth, signed autographs, and offered playing tips, creating moments of inspiration and joy that aligned with the club's mission of "soccer with a ." This visit highlighted the club's commitment to building community ties and plans for expanded partnerships with such organizations. To promote inclusivity for athletes with disabilities, Chicago House AC announced a with Access Sports Elmhurst in November 2024. This collaboration integrates over 150 young athletes aged 5-22 with disabilities into club activities, such as pregame and halftime events at home matches held at Langhorst Field, , during the 2025 season. By amplifying visibility and participation, the initiative advances social good and reflects the club's values of respect and belonging, enhancing community impact both on and off the field. The club further engages the broader community through its involvement with Common Goal, a global soccer initiative for , which it joined in 2021. Chicago House AC pledges 1% of select revenue streams to Common Goal's fund, supporting projects that combat and promote racial equity. This financial commitment serves as a platform for partnering with diverse community organizations, raising funds, and amplifying voices that represent Chicago's multicultural population, thereby reinforcing the club's dedication to . Internally, Chicago House AC bridges professional and youth soccer via a mentoring program launched in May 2025, pairing players (ages 2014-2021) with first-team athletes for virtual sessions and post-match interactions, including autographs and high-fives. Youth participants receive free admission to all home games, encouraging family involvement and a sense of belonging. Additionally, the club offers need-based financial grants to remove barriers to participation, ensuring equitable access to its developmental and competitive programs for children from low-income families. These efforts cultivate a welcoming environment and inspire the next generation to embrace soccer as a tool for personal growth and community unity. Through these initiatives, Chicago House AC not only supports local nonprofits like Mercy Home but also partners with entities such as the to promote business and , demonstrating a holistic approach to outreach that extends beyond the pitch.

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