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Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC, commonly referred to as Switchbacks FC or simply Switchbacks, is a professional soccer team based in Colorado Springs, Colorado. The Switchbacks compete in the USL Championship (USLC) and participate in the second tier of the United States soccer league system. Founded in 2014, the team is a member of the Western Conference. The franchise is owned and operated by Weidner Apartment Homes.[1]

Key Information

The club plays at Weidner Field, which holds the record for the highest altitude professional soccer stadium in the United States. The Switchbacks won their first conference championship, and overall league championship, in the 2024 season, defeating Rhode Island FC 3-0 in the USL Championship Final.

History

[edit]

The Ragain family was awarded a USL Pro franchise on December 5, 2013, with plans to begin play in 2015.[2] The team's name, the "Switchbacks", was announced on January 31, 2014, following a fan contest.[3] The team hired Steve Trittschuh as head coach on March 11, 2014.[4] Luke Vercollone was the first player signed by Colorado Springs in October 2014. The Ragain family chose Colorado Springs in large part because of the City for Champions vision by city leaders which included a downtown stadium concept that needed a champion of its own.[5]

Steve Trittschuh and Luke Vercollone lead Colorado Springs to two immediate post season appearances in 2015 and 2016. A talented 2017 roster did not qualify for the playoffs followed by increasingly challenging league competitions through 2020 as the USL Championship grew.

In July 2019, the Switchbacks and Trittschuh parted ways naming assistant coach Wolde Harris the interim head coach.[6] On September 23, Switchbacks announced the selection of Alan Koch as the next head coach.[7] Koch's leadership of the team was cut short by the COVID-19 pandemic and a restructuring of the 2020 season thereafter returning to Canada. A stabilizing limited affiliation between the Switchbacks and Colorado Rapids between 2019 and 2021 provided the club with additional technical resources and staff including Brian Crookham that aided the transitioning club.[8]

The Switchbacks next looked to Brendan Burke from the Philadelphia Union as head coach to lead the club in its transition downtown beginning a new phase for the franchise.[9] Switchbacks rebranded by simplifying the original logo and colors. Burke quickly went to work restructuring the team making a 2021 playoff appearance in his first season. Player Hadji Barry tied the Championship league record for total goals scored at 25 goals earning the leagues Golden Boot award.[10] 2022 saw the best season in franchise history at the time, making it to the Conference Finals before defeat against San Antonio FC.[11]

After winning the final match of the 2024 regular season against Sacramento Republic FC, the Switchbacks were able to host their entire playoff run at home.[12] With a strong home advantage, the Switchbacks were able to cruise through the entire playoffs, conceding only one goal the entire 2024 USL Championship playoffs.[13] During this run, the club won their first trophy by winning the Western Conference against the Las Vegas Lights FC,[14] and handily winning the 2024 USL Championship final 3–0 against Rhode Island FC.[15][16]

Club culture

[edit]

Supporter Groups

[edit]

The club has one recognized supporter group, an independent supporter group called Trailheads SG.[17] They're typically located behind the south endline in a place titled, "Base Camp."[18]

Mascot

[edit]

Ziggy the mountain goat, debuted during the club's inaugural season, is the club's official mascot. He was chosen after a competition was hosted between artists from local high schools to create concept art for the new club's mascot to potentially win $200 for their school's art department, which was eventually won by Widefield High School.[19] He's regarded as one of the best mascots in the USL Championship, being ranked the league's fourth best mascot in 2017.[20]

Stadium

[edit]
Aerial shot of Weidner Field in June 2021

The team opened an 8,000 capacity soccer stadium in downtown Colorado Springs, called Weidner Field, built by Perkins & Will Architects for the 2021 season. Having taken the name from the club's former stadium in October 2020, the stadium sits at an altitude of 6,035 feet, making Weidner Field the highest altitude professional soccer stadium in the United States.[21] The stadium includes many unique elements, including a statue of Saturn that symbolizes the city's nickname as the Olympic City, as well as one of the first "corkonut" turf fields approved by FIFA.[22] Plans for the stadium were officially announced by the City of Colorado Springs in July 2018.[23] Construction began on December 7, 2019. The stadium cost was $47 million and funded by team ownership and Regional Tourism Act / City for Champions tax increment financing.[24]

In 2014, Sand Creek Stadium (now officially known as the Switchbacks Training Field) received a $3.5 million renovation by Martin E. Ragain after signing a 10-year lease with the City of Colorado Springs to meet league minimum stadium criteria for franchises.[25] Located at roughly 6,500 feet above sea level,[26] the stadium was at the highest elevation of any primary home stadium for a professional team in the American soccer pyramid.

Year-by-year

[edit]
Historical chart of Switchbacks FC's regular season performance
Year Division League Regular season Playoffs U.S. Open Cup Avg. attendance
2015 3 USL 3rd, Western Conference Semifinals Fourth Round 2,723
2016 USL 3rd, Western Conference Quarterfinals Fourth Round 3,152
2017 2 USL 9th, Western did not qualify Third Round 3,389
2018 USL 11th, Western did not qualify Third Round 3,804
2019 USLC 18th, Western did not qualify Third Round 4,005
2020 USLC 13th, Western
3rd, Group C 		did not qualify Cancelled N/A
2021 USLC 5th, Western
3rd, Mountain 		Conference Quarterfinals Cancelled 6,271
2022 USLC 3rd, Western Conference Finals Second Round 7,199
2023 USLC 5th, Western Conference Quarterfinals Second Round 7,769
2024 USLC 2nd, Western Champions Round of 32 7,664

Current roster

[edit]
As of August 20, 2025[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
1 GK  MEX Christian Herrera
3 DF  USA Akeem O'Connor-Ward
4 DF  USA Tyler Clegg
5 DF  USA Matt Mahoney
6 DF  USA Matt Real
7 FW  NOR Jonas Fjeldberg
9 FW  CAN Levonte Johnson
10 MF  USA Zach Zandi
11 FW  FRA Quenzi Huerman
13 MF  PUR Stevie Echevarria
14 DF  HAI Duke Lacroix
16 GK  USA Adam Beaudry (on loan from Colorado Rapids)
18 MF  USA Aidan Rocha
No. Pos. Nation Player
19 MF  USA Marco Rios
20 FW  JPN Yosuke Hanya (on loan from Colorado Rapids 2)
21 MF  USA Anthony Fontana
22 MF  ITA Marco Micaletto
23 DF  HAI Garven Metusala
24 GK  MEX Abraham Romero (on loan from Columbus Crew)
25 MF  USA Henry Weston ([A])
27 FW  PAN Juan Tejada
32 GK  USA Jonathan Burke
33 DF  USA Isaiah Foster
34 MF  ENG Charlie Adams
37 DF  USA Brennan Creek
93 FW  NIR Kyle Vassell
  1. ^
    USL Academy Contract

Staff

[edit]
  • United States Dean Weidner – owner
  • United States Brad Estes – president
  • Vacant – head coach
  • United States Alan McCann – technical director & assistant coach

Honors

[edit]

References

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

Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC

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Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC is a professional men's soccer club based in Colorado Springs, Colorado, that competes in the USL Championship, the second tier of the United States soccer league system.[1] Founded in 2014 by the Ragain family through Ragain Sports, LLC, the team began competitive play in 2015 and plays its home matches at Weidner Field, an 8,000-seat stadium unveiled in May 2021.[2][3] The Switchbacks have established themselves as a key fixture in Colorado Springs' sports landscape, drawing strong community support and achieving notable milestones since inception. In their inaugural 2015 season, the team finished third in the USL's Western Conference, marking a strong debut in professional soccer. Over the years, the club has focused on player development and fan engagement, with home matches streamed on ESPN+ and broadcast on local radio via Xtra Sports 1300. The 2024 season proved historic, as the Switchbacks overcame an early 0-5 start to win the USL Championship, securing their first title with a 3–0 victory over Rhode Island FC in the final at Weidner Field on November 23, 2024, under head coach James Chambers.[4][5][6] Ownership of the franchise transitioned in February 2025 when Weidner Apartment Homes, led by Dean Weidner, acquired full control from the Ragain family, who had been instrumental in launching professional soccer in the city. This shift underscores the club's growing stability and investment in infrastructure, including Weidner Field's luxury club levels and community programs. As of November 2025, the Switchbacks parted ways with sporting director Stephen Hogan and head coach James Chambers, signaling a new chapter in leadership while maintaining their commitment to competitive excellence in the Western Conference.[7][8]

History

Founding and inception

On December 5, 2013, the United Soccer League (USL) awarded an expansion franchise in the USL Pro division to Ragain Sports, owned by the Ragain family, with the team set to begin play in the 2015 season.[9] The franchise aimed to bring professional soccer to Colorado Springs, capitalizing on the city's growing sports scene and its location near the Rocky Mountains.[10] To foster early community involvement, the organization launched a public contest in January 2014 to select the team's name, ultimately choosing "Switchbacks FC" on January 31, inspired by the winding switchback roads on Pikes Peak Highway that symbolize resilience and the local terrain.[11][12] This decision not only reflected Colorado Springs' mountainous identity but also engaged residents in the club's branding from the outset.[13] In preparation for the inaugural season, the team hired Steve Trittschuh, a veteran of Major League Soccer and the U.S. men's national team, as its first head coach on March 11, 2014.[4] Later that year, in October 2014, the club signed midfielder Luke Vercollone as its first player, a move that helped build anticipation and assemble the roster.[4] Early operations included community outreach through events and partnerships to build fan support, while the team selected Sand Creek Stadium as its initial home venue for the 2015 season before transitioning to a permanent downtown facility.[14]

Development and key milestones

The Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC launched its inaugural season in 2015 in the USL, finishing with a record of 14 wins, 10 draws, and 4 losses for 46 points, securing third place in the Western Conference and qualifying for the playoffs as the fifth overall team in the league.[15][16] The team advanced to the conference semifinals before elimination, marking an early competitive milestone under founding head coach Steve Trittschuh, who had been appointed in March 2014.[4] Average home attendance stood at 2,723, reflecting initial community interest in professional soccer at Sand Creek Stadium.[17] Following the 2015 postseason, the Switchbacks reached the playoffs again in 2016 but experienced inconsistency through 2018, missing playoffs in 2017 and 2018 with records hovering around .500 under Trittschuh's continued leadership, as the league expanded and competition intensified. Trittschuh departed in July 2019 after a challenging 7-6-21 campaign that placed the team 35th overall, prompting interim coach Wolde Harris through October 2019 and the hiring of Alan Koch as head coach in September 2019.[18][19] Koch's tenure ended in November 2020 amid the disruptions of the COVID-19 pandemic, which shortened the season to a regional group stage format in the Mountain Division featuring rivals like Real Salt Lake's Real Monarchs and New Mexico United; the Switchbacks posted a 2-7-7 record, finishing without playoff qualification and drawing an average of just 967 fans due to capacity restrictions.[20][21] Brendan Burke took over as head coach in December 2020, guiding the club through a rebuilding phase that included the opening of Weidner Field, a soccer-specific stadium in downtown Colorado Springs, in April 2021. This yielded gradual improvement, including a 13-10-9 mark in 2021 (12th overall, no playoffs) and a breakout 17-4-13 in 2022 (8th overall, Western Conference playoffs).[19][18] Burke's exit in January 2023 led to Stephen Hogan's promotion from technical director to head coach, but his brief stint ended in January 2024 after a transitional 16-5-13 season in 2023 that earned another playoff berth (8th overall). James Chambers assumed the role in January 2024, immediately elevating the team to its strongest regular-season performance with a 15-7-12 record, second in the Western Conference, and progression through the playoffs to claim the 2024 USL Championship title via a 3-0 victory over Rhode Island FC in the final at Weidner Field—the club's first league crown and deepest postseason run.[22][5][23] The 2025 season marked a sharp downturn under Chambers, with a 10-7-13 record placing the team 16th overall and out of playoff contention, culminating in the club's announcement on November 4, 2025, of parting ways with both Chambers and sporting director Stephen Hogan, leaving the head coaching position vacant heading into the offseason.[18][24] This period encapsulated the Switchbacks' evolution from early promise and prolonged mid-table struggles to recent playoff consistency and a historic championship, underscored by coaching transitions that reflected ongoing efforts to stabilize and elevate the franchise.[4]

Club identity and culture

Name, colors, and crest

The name "Switchbacks" for Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC derives from the steep, zigzag mountain trails known as switchbacks in the Pikes Peak region, which are emblematic of the challenging yet navigable paths that characterize the area's rugged terrain and symbolize the club's resilience and determination.[12][25] The club's primary colors are blue and black, with grey and white as accents, as established in the 2021 rebrand.[26] The original crest from 2015 featured elements inspired by the Colorado Springs flag, including a hexagon shape and sunburst behind a soccer ball. The 2021 update introduced a shield with a broken outline forming an "S" for Switchbacks and Springs, a mountain peak representing Pikes Peak, five stripes symbolizing the local military bases, and "1871" honoring the city's founding year, refining the design for a more contemporary appearance.[26] The club's kit supplier has been Capelli Sport since 2018. In 2025, the club debuted the Cyan Reflections kit as part of ongoing apparel evolution.[27][28]

Supporter groups and traditions

The Trailheads Supporters' Group (SG), founded in 2015 ahead of the club's inaugural USL Championship season, serves as the primary independent supporter organization for Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC.[29][30] Established by fans Kevin Yi and Chris Earley, the group has grown to over 600 members on social media platforms, with more than 150 regularly attending matches to foster a vibrant atmosphere.[30] They occupy sections 126, 127, and 128 at Weidner Field, dubbed "Base Camp" in homage to Colorado's mountainous terrain, where supporters engage in coordinated chants like the repetitive "Switch-backs," drumming, flag-waving, and occasional tifo displays such as a championship-themed star unveiled in 2025.[31][30][32] Matchday traditions emphasize community and the region's outdoor ethos, beginning with pre-game gatherings at local breweries like Pikes Peak Brewing Company or Lager House, where fans enjoy signature beers such as Hooligan Juice and build excitement through informal tailgates.[33][34] A key ritual is "The Riot," a bar-crawl style fan march to the stadium that unites supporters in a procession of chants and energy before kickoff.[30] Following victories, including the club's historic 2024 USL Championship win, fans participate in post-match community events like parades and celebrations at Weidner Field, reinforcing local pride.[35][6] The supporter base has shown steady growth, with average home attendance rising from 2,723 in the 2015 season to 7,753 in 2023, reflecting increased fan engagement amid on-field progress.[17][36] This upward trend accelerated following the 2024 championship triumph, which drew sellout crowds and boosted overall interest.[37][6] Trailheads members actively contribute to fan-led initiatives, including charity drives through the club's giveback program, which donated $34,000 to local nonprofits in 2024 via ticket sales and volunteering efforts such as VetTix partnerships and Special Olympics support.[38][39] These activities align with Colorado's outdoor culture, incorporating environmental awareness through community cleanups and service projects that promote sustainability in the Pikes Peak region.[39]

Mascot and branding

The mascot of Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC is Ziggy, a mountain goat character introduced in 2015 to represent the club's inaugural season and embody the agility and spirit of local Rocky Mountain wildlife.[40] Designed by high school student Riley Sorency through a community art competition, Ziggy was selected for its unique connection to Colorado's rugged terrain and has since become a staple at Weidner Field, appearing at every home match to engage fans during halftime shows and on-field antics.[40] Ziggy plays a prominent role in the club's promotional efforts, making frequent community appearances at youth events such as Ziggy's Kids Club initiatives and holiday festivals, where families interact through photo opportunities and themed activities.[41][42] In 2017, Ziggy was ranked fourth among the top mascots in the United Soccer League by the league's official publication, highlighting its appeal and effectiveness in fan engagement.[43] Ziggy also participates in collaborative promotions, such as filming videos with local partners like Coldwell Banker to boost visibility and community ties.[44] Beyond matchdays, Ziggy supports broader branding strategies through merchandise lines, including bobbleheads, apparel, and themed items sold at the club's official shop and online store.[40][45] The mascot integrates seamlessly with the team's visual identity, incorporating elements like the signature colors into its costume for cohesive promotional materials across social media and events.[40] This approach extends to partnerships with local businesses for themed campaigns, enhancing fan loyalty and regional pride, particularly during milestone seasons like the 2024 USL Championship victory celebrations.[46][6]

Facilities

Stadium

Weidner Field serves as the primary home venue for Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC, a soccer-specific stadium situated in downtown Colorado Springs, Colorado. Opened on April 24, 2021, with the club's first match—a friendly against Orange County SC, ending in a 2–2 draw—the facility replaced earlier temporary arrangements, including the use of Security Service Field from 2015 to 2020.[47][48] The stadium boasts a seating capacity of 8,000, making it a compact yet vibrant hub for professional soccer in the region.[49] Constructed as part of a $50 million development project funded through a combination of city contributions, state sales tax allocations, and private investments, Weidner Field was designed to revitalize the downtown area while providing a dedicated space for the club.[50] At an elevation of 6,035 feet, it holds the distinction of being the highest-elevated professional stadium in the USL Championship, offering a unique home-field advantage due to the altitude.[51] The venue features a state-of-the-art synthetic turf field with organic infill made from coconut fiber and cork, which enhances player safety and sustainability compared to traditional artificial surfaces.[52] Premium seating options, including 13 luxury suites on the west concourse, provide elevated viewing experiences with optimal sightlines to the pitch.[53] Beyond matchdays, Weidner Field functions as a multifaceted community event space, accommodating concerts, festivals, and public gatherings that extend its role in local culture.[49] It notably hosted the club's championship celebration rally on December 6, 2024, following Switchbacks FC's 3-0 victory over Rhode Island FC in the USL Championship Final, drawing fans to commemorate the first title in franchise history.[35] Attendance has grown steadily since opening, with the stadium achieving multiple sellouts; the record single-game figure stands at 8,023, set during the 2024 championship final.[54]

Training and youth facilities

Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC utilizes the Martin 'Ed' Ragain Field, located at 6303 Barnes Road, as its primary training site for daily practices, a facility that has been in use since the club's founding in 2015. Originally known as Sand Creek Stadium, the site was renovated for $3.5 million in 2014 by owner Martin E. Ragain to support professional soccer operations, including multiple practice fields and support amenities adjacent to UCHealth Park.[50] The club's youth programs benefit from shared access to local soccer pitches across Colorado Springs for academy sessions, with the team investing in community development in 2022 through partnerships like the U.S. Soccer Foundation to enhance youth training infrastructure. In line with these efforts, a dedicated mini-pitch was established at Centennial Elementary School to provide hands-on training opportunities for young players.[55][56] To capitalize on the city's elevation of over 6,000 feet, Switchbacks FC incorporates high-altitude training protocols designed to improve player endurance and aerobic capacity, a common adaptation for teams based in Colorado Springs that leverages reduced oxygen levels for physiological benefits.[57] In 2024, the club announced plans for an expanded integrated academy complex, including the launch of Switchbacks FC II as a full-season reserve and development team, which began its first season in 2025 and plays home matches at Weidner Field to support youth progression into the senior squad. Following the ownership transition to Weidner Apartment Homes in February 2025, the club continues to invest in its infrastructure, with Switchbacks FC II utilizing Weidner Field for matches during its 2025 season. These academy programs rely on the club's training infrastructure to foster talent development.[58]

Organization and administration

Ownership

The Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC was initially owned by the Ragain family, led by Ed Ragain, from its founding in 2014 until 2025. Ed Ragain, the former owner of M-E Engineers, a Colorado-based international engineering firm, played a pivotal role in acquiring the USL franchise and establishing the club in Colorado Springs.[59][60] In 2020, Weidner Apartment Homes, a real estate investment company founded by Colorado Springs native Dean Weidner, acquired a minority stake in the club, coinciding with the extension of naming rights for the new downtown stadium to Weidner Field. This partnership provided early financial support and strengthened ties to local development initiatives.[61] On February 5, 2025, Weidner Apartment Homes assumed full ownership, acquiring the remaining stake from the Ragain family following the club's first USL Championship title in 2024. The transition, led by Dean Weidner, marked a strategic realignment to build on the championship success and ensure long-term growth.[7][6] These ownership changes have enhanced the club's financial stability and deepened community investments, including support for youth development programs such as the launch of Switchbacks FC II in 2025. The Ragain family's foundational efforts and Weidner's expanded commitment have collectively driven the club's expansion and local impact.[62][58]

Management and technical staff

The management and technical staff of Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC oversee both business operations and on-field performance, with a structure emphasizing data-driven decision-making in player recruitment, training, and analytics since the integration of specialized roles in 2022.[63] Brad Estes serves as President, a position he assumed on March 3, 2025, after joining from Louisville City FC where he had been President since 2018. In this role, Estes manages overall business operations, including strategic planning, revenue growth, and fan engagement initiatives for the club.[64][65] Alan McCann holds the position of Technical Director, having joined the organization in February 2021 initially as Performance and Technical Analyst before being promoted to his current role in January 2024. McCann, who also serves as an Assistant Coach, focuses on player recruitment, performance optimization, and implementing analytics-based strategies to enhance team development.[63][66] As of November 2025, the Head Coach and Sporting Director positions are vacant following the club's decision to part ways with James Chambers and Stephen Hogan on November 4, 2025. Chambers had been appointed in January 2024 and led Switchbacks to their first USL Championship title that year, achieving a playoff run with a 15–7–12 regular-season record in 2024 before a disappointing 2025 campaign prompted the change. The club has initiated a search for permanent replacements, with no interim appointments announced.[8][67][68] Key assistant roles support a holistic approach to coaching, incorporating specialized expertise in goalkeeping, fitness, and individual player development. Calle Brown acts as Goalkeeping Coach, focusing on technique and tactical integration for the squad's netminders. Matt Besemer serves as Sports Performance Coach, overseeing fitness and conditioning programs to maintain player durability. Keelan Power functions as Individual Development Coach, working on personalized skill enhancement and tactical adaptation. These positions, bolstered by analytics tools introduced under McCann's influence, have contributed to a more evidence-based training environment since 2022.[63]

Broadcasting and rivalries

Media coverage

Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC has established several broadcasting partnerships to provide local and national coverage of its matches. Since 2017, the club has partnered with FOX21 News and SOCO CW to broadcast all home USL Championship games, a deal initially announced for the 2018 season and renewed in 2021 to ensure continued local television access for fans in the Colorado Springs area.[69][70] Additionally, matches are available for streaming on ESPN+, providing broader digital access to live games and replays, in line with the USL's broadcasting agreement. Home matches are also streamed on ESPN+, aligning with the USL Championship's national broadcasting deal.[71] On radio, XTRA Sports 1300 (KCSF-AM), operated by Cumulus Media, has served as the official broadcaster since 2021, providing coverage of every Switchbacks match with local commentary to engage the Colorado Springs community.[59] The club's digital presence includes an official YouTube channel, which streams highlights, full match replays, and exclusive content, contributing to fan engagement beyond traditional broadcasts.[72] Social media platforms have seen significant growth, with the team's accounts collectively surpassing 50,000 followers by 2025, amplified by post-championship content following their 2024 USL Championship victory.[73][6] Nationally, the Switchbacks received increased exposure during the 2024 playoffs through ESPN's multi-year agreement with the USL, which featured live coverage and game summaries of their postseason matches, including the championship final.[74][75] Rivalry games, such as those against New Mexico United, have occasionally boosted viewership on these platforms.

Rivalries

The primary rivalry for Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC is the Four Corners Derby against New Mexico United, which began in 2019 following the latter's entry into the USL Championship and the establishment of the supporter-initiated Four Corners Cup competition among teams from the Four Corners region.[76] This interstate matchup has become a highlight of the Southwest schedule, characterized by competitive intensity and regional pride, with New Mexico United holding a dominant head-to-head record of 13 wins to Switchbacks' 4, alongside 4 draws as of late 2025.[77] Notable encounters include a 2-1 comeback victory for New Mexico United at Weidner Field on September 24, 2025, where Carlos Moguel Jr. scored the decisive goal in the 83rd minute.[78] An interstate rivalry also exists with MLS side Colorado Rapids, primarily through U.S. Open Cup clashes that underscore the Centennial State divide. The teams met in the tournament's fourth round in both 2015 (a 4-1 Rapids win) and 2016 (a 1-0 Rapids victory via Dillon Serna's late goal), fostering discussions of potential upsets for lower-division sides like the Switchbacks against higher-tier opponents.[79][80] In 2023, amid broader conversations about Colorado soccer pyramid rivalries, hypothetical matchup buzz highlighted the Switchbacks' upset potential before their early exit to another in-state foe.[81] Other notable derbies include contests against Sacramento Republic FC, with Sacramento securing 8 wins to the Switchbacks' 7 in 18 meetings and 3 draws as of November 2025, reflecting a competitive West Coast rivalry since 2014.[82] In cup competitions, the Switchbacks have faced budding in-state tension with Northern Colorado Hailstorm FC, losing 1-0 in extra time in the 2022 U.S. Open Cup second round and 3-1 in extra time the following year, both at home.[83] These rivalry games consistently drive elevated attendance, such as the 10,747 fans at a June 2025 Four Corners Derby match in Albuquerque, often accompanied by supporter tifo displays and heightened atmosphere at Weidner Field.[84]

Youth system and affiliates

Academy and development

The Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC operates a youth academy as part of the USL Academy League, which began signing players to academy contracts in 2020 to develop talent for the professional level.[85] The program serves players aged 15 to 19, aligning with USL guidelines for a single academy team competing at the U19 level while emphasizing long-term player growth over immediate results.[86] Training focuses on technical skills, game awareness, competitive mindset, and physical conditioning adapted to the high-altitude environment of Colorado Springs, located at over 6,000 feet elevation, to prepare athletes for the demands of professional soccer.[87] Development pathways include annual tryouts, such as those for the affiliated Switchbacks FC II program launched in 2024 for ages 13 to 19, and ongoing partnerships with local clubs like Pride Soccer Club since 2017 to scout and nurture regional talent.[58][88][89] Academy players train alongside the senior team and can earn professional contracts, with several local prospects progressing to first-team appearances; notable examples include forward Darren Yapi's debut in 2020 and midfielder Marco Rios' transition to a full professional deal in 2023 after scoring in academy matches.[90][91] The club supports additional youth programs through summer and spring break camps for ages 8 to 13, focusing on skill-building and fun, as well as clinics that promote inclusivity, including unified sessions for athletes with intellectual disabilities in partnership with Special Olympics.[92][93][94] By 2025, at least five academy products had made their senior team debuts, including Rios in 2023 and newcomers Chase Gozdieski, Alessandro "Nino" Maldonado, and Henry Weston in early 2025, highlighting the pathway's effectiveness in bridging youth to professional soccer.[95][96]

Reserve team

Switchbacks FC II, the reserve development team of Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC, was established in August 2024 through a partnership with Pride Soccer Club to offer elite training and competition for local male youth players aged 13-19.[58] Switchbacks FC II also competes in the USL Academy League's Mountain Division, providing additional elite competition for academy-contracted players.[97] The program began operations in Fall 2024 and launched its first full competitive season in 2025, functioning as a vital pathway between the club's youth academy and the professional first team by emphasizing holistic player growth in technical skills, physical conditioning, and tactical awareness.[88][58] Competing primarily in the Mountain Premier League, an amateur developmental circuit, Switchbacks FC II demonstrated strong potential in its debut full campaign by clinching the 2025 league championship with a 3-1 final victory on June 7, 2025.[98][99] The team also participates in the United Premier Soccer League (UPSL) Fall season to provide additional high-level matches, aiding in the evaluation and maturation of promising talents who may earn opportunities with the senior squad.[100] Switchbacks FC II trains and plays home games at Weidner Field, sharing resources and infrastructure with the first team to foster a seamless transition for advancing players.[101] The program falls under the technical direction of Switchbacks FC Technical Director Alan McCann, with day-to-day leadership provided by head coach Keelan Power, a USSF B-licensed former Division I college coach.[58] In line with its developmental objectives, Switchbacks FC II has facilitated early integrations to the first team, such as midfielder Henry Weston, who secured a full 90-minute appearance in a senior match during the 2025 USL Championship season after progressing through the reserve program.[102] This structure supports the club's strategy of nurturing local talent for potential professional contracts or loans to higher levels.[58]

Records and honors

Year-by-year results

The Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC have competed in the USL Championship since their inaugural season in 2015, with performance varying across years marked by early playoff appearances, a mid-period struggle, and a resurgence leading to their first league title in 2024. The following table summarizes their regular season results, average home attendance, and playoff outcomes.
YearLeague PositionPldWDLGFGAPtsAvg. AttendancePlayoff Result
20153rd (Western)28144105335462,723Conference Semifinals (lost 1–2 to OKC Energy FC)[103]
20162nd (Western)3015783826523,152Conference Quarterfinals (lost 1–2 to Vancouver Whitecaps FC 2)[104]
20179th (Western)32128125551443,510Did not qualify
201812th (Western)34116173639393,200Did not qualify
201918th overall3476213165273,000Did not qualify
202013th (Western)162771828132,500Did not qualify
20215th (Mountain)32131096050496,270Did not qualify
20223rd (Western)34174135953554,800Did not qualify
20235th (Western)34165134942535,500Did not qualify
20242nd (Western)34157124840527,664USL Championship winners (def. Rhode Island FC 3–0 in final)[105]
20258th (Western)30107133547377,181Conference Quarterfinals (lost 0–1 a.e.t. to FC Tulsa)[106]
Regular season statistics sourced from Transfermarkt.[107] Attendance figures derived from official USL reports and stadium analyses where available; 2017–2020 and 2022–2023 estimates based on partial season data from ESPN and USL Championship announcements.[48][108] Over the club's history, win percentages have fluctuated but trended upward in recent years, rising from 50% in 2015 (14 wins in 28 matches) to a high of 50% again in 2022 (17 wins in 34 matches), supporting their 2024 title run with a 44% win rate.[107] Average attendance has more than doubled since the opening of Weidner Field in 2021, increasing from approximately 3,000 fans per match pre-stadium to over 6,000 annually thereafter, reflecting enhanced fan engagement and venue upgrades.[48][17]

Achievements and awards

Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC secured its first major team honor by winning the 2024 USL Championship, defeating Rhode Island FC 3-0 in the final at Weidner Field on November 23, 2024. The victory marked the club's inaugural league title after a playoff run that included four consecutive wins: 2–0 over Oakland Roots SC in the quarterfinals, 2–1 over Orange County SC in the semifinals, 1–0 over Las Vegas Lights FC in the conference final, and the championship match triumph. Additionally, the team captured the 2024 Western Conference playoff championship with the conference final win, achieving the highest postseason success in franchise history.[105] In the 2024 regular season, the Switchbacks finished second in the Western Conference with a record of 15 wins, 7 draws, and 12 losses, totaling 52 points—the best regular-season standing in club history. The club's performance in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup has seen a best finish of the round of 16 in 2023, where they fell to FC Cincinnati on penalties after a 0-0 draw; this remains the best as of the 2025 elimination in the round of 32. Individual accolades for Switchbacks players and staff include forward Hadji Barry earning the 2021 USL Championship Most Valuable Player award after leading the league with 25 goals and contributing to a fifth-place finish in the Western Conference. In 2024, forward Juan Tejada was named the USL Championship Final MVP for scoring the opening goal and providing strong overall play in the title-clinching 3-0 victory. Midfielder Luke Vercollone received 2015 USL All-League First Team honors following a standout inaugural season with 14 goals and 9 assists, leading the team in scoring. The franchise holds several key records, including the most wins in a single season with 19 in 2024 (15 in the regular season plus 4 in the playoffs). Attendance records were also set in 2024 with 13 home sellouts at Weidner Field, capacity 8,000, and the highest single-match crowd of 8,023 during the USL Championship Final against Rhode Island FC on November 23, 2024.[105]

Players and personnel

Current roster

As of November 10, 2025, Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC's first-team roster consists of 26 active players, primarily under contract through November 30, 2025, with a mix of nationalities including the United States, Mexico, Norway, Panama, and others, reflecting the club's recruitment strategy in the USL Championship.[109] The squad features key post-2024 signings such as Norwegian attacking midfielder Jonas Fjeldberg and Panamanian centre-forward Juan Tejada, bolstering the midfield and forward lines.[110] No players are currently listed on loan or sidelined by injury.[109] The roster is organized below by position, including shirt numbers, player names, ages, primary nationalities, and specific roles where applicable.

Goalkeepers

No.PlayerAgeNationalityRole
1Christian Herrera28Mexico/United StatesGoalkeeper
32Jonathan Burke27United StatesGoalkeeper

Defenders

No.PlayerAgeNationalityRole
23Garven Metusala25Haiti/CanadaCentre-Back
4Tyler Clegg25United StatesCentre-Back
6Matt Real26United States/BrazilLeft-Back
3Akeem Ward29United States/JamaicaLeft-Back
14Duke Lacroix32Haiti/United StatesLeft-Back
33Isaiah Foster22United StatesLeft-Back
5Matt Mahoney30United StatesRight-Back
25Henry Weston19United StatesRight-Back

Midfielders

No.PlayerAgeNationalityRole
34Charlie Adams31EnglandDefensive Midfield
18Aidan Rocha24United StatesDefensive Midfield
19Marco Rios19United StatesMidfielder
37Brennan Creek25United StatesDefensive Midfield
13Steven Echevarria29Puerto Rico/United StatesCentral Midfield
15Chase Gozdieski19United StatesCentral Midfield
21Anthony Fontana26United States/ItalyAttacking Midfield
22Marco Micaletto29Italy/United StatesAttacking Midfield
7Jonas Fjeldberg27NorwayAttacking Midfield
10Zach Zandi29United States/IranAttacking Midfield
80Alessandro Maldonado19Honduras/United StatesAttacking Midfield

Forwards

No.PlayerAgeNationalityRole
9Levonte Johnson26CanadaLeft Winger
11Quenzi Huerman24FranceLeft Winger
20Yosuke Hanya26JapanRight Winger
27Juan Tejada28PanamaCentre-Forward
93Kyle Vassell32Northern Ireland/EnglandCentre-Forward

Notable former players

Luke Vercollone was the first player signed by Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC in October 2014, ahead of the club's inaugural 2015 USL Championship season.[111] As a midfielder and team captain from 2015 to 2018, he appeared in over 100 matches, scoring 26 goals and providing numerous assists, including a club-record nine in his debut 2015 campaign where he also netted a single-season high of 14 goals.[111] Upon his retirement in October 2018, Vercollone held the franchise's all-time goalscoring record and was recognized as the "Original Switchback" for his leadership in establishing the club's culture and identity.[112] He later transitioned into youth development, founding Mighty Kicks to promote soccer among children in Colorado Springs.[113] Hadji Barry, a forward who joined in April 2021, became the club's all-time leading scorer with 41 goals across 63 appearances in his two seasons.[114] In 2021, he tied the USL Championship single-season record with 25 goals, earning the Golden Boot and Most Valuable Player award while helping the team reach the Western Conference Finals.[115] Barry scored 16 goals in 2022 before his historic transfer to Egypt's Future FC that October, marking the Switchbacks' first sale of a player abroad for a fee described as the largest in USL Championship history at the time.[116] Midfielder Jairo Henríquez, signed in June 2022 as El Salvador's national team captain, earned additional international caps during his tenure, including call-ups for friendlies and World Cup qualifiers in 2024 while contributing 13 goals in 67 appearances.[117] He played a key role in the 2024 USL Championship-winning squad before transferring to CD Águila in El Salvador in January 2025. These players exemplified the Switchbacks' emphasis on leadership and community engagement; Vercollone and Barry, in particular, participated in local outreach programs, fostering fan connections and youth involvement in Colorado Springs soccer culture.[112]

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