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Orange County SC
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Orange County Soccer Club is an American soccer team based in the Orange County, California city of Irvine. Founded in 2010 as the Los Angeles Blues, the team currently plays in the Western Conference of the USL Championship, the second tier of the American soccer system.
Key Information
The team plays its home games at Championship Soccer Stadium, located inside Great Park in Irvine.
History
[edit]The then Los Angeles Blues were founded by Iranian-American businessman Ali Mansouri in 1998 and announced as a USL Pro expansion franchise on December 7, 2010.[1][2][3][4][5] The team was associated with the United Soccer Leagues W-League team LA Blues, and is part of the larger Orange County Blues organization, which has competed in Los Angeles-area amateur leagues since 1998. They introduced their first three players—goalkeeper Oscar Dautt and midfielders Cesar Rivera and Josh Tudela—at a formal launch event on December 14, 2010.[6]
After an extensive pre-season, the Blues played their first games in the Caribbean over the weekend of April 15–17, 2011, a 3–0 victory over Sevilla Puerto Rico, and a 2–1 victory over Antigua Barracuda. The first goal in franchise history was scored by Cesar Rivera.[7]
In January 2012, the Blues announced the hiring of Steve Donner (formerly CEO of Orlando City) as vice president of business operations to focus on improving marketing for the club and to bring professionalism to the front-office.[8] The first game of the 2012 season reflected these efforts with a 2,432 attendance compared to 696 for the first home game in 2011 (the Blues averaged 382 during the 2011 season).
In September 2016, the team was purchased by American businessman James Keston for $5 million and rebranded to Orange County SC.[2] Keston had unsuccessfully attempted to purchase expansion teams in Major League Soccer for Portland, Oregon, and Seattle in the 2000s.[9] Prior to the 2017 season, Orange County became the USL affiliate of Los Angeles FC in a multi-year deal, which was ended after 2018.[10][11] The team won the Western Conference Regular Season Title in 2018 with 20 Wins, 8 losses and 6 ties. They defeated Saint Louis FC and Reno 1868 FC before losing 2–1 to Phoenix Rising FC in the Western Conference Final.[12] Thomas Enevoldsen scored 20 goals and was named to the All-League First Team along with Aodhan Quinn.[13]
In the 2021 season, Head Coach Braden Cloutier was dismissed mid-season and replaced by Assistant Coach Richard Chaplow.[14] OCSC went on to finish second in the Pacific Division, and advance to the USL Championship Final, defeating Tampa Bay Rowdies away at St. Petersburg, Florida, 3–1 in regulation.[15]
The 2022 season saw Richard Chaplow earn a last place Western Conference finish, despite Milan Iloski earning the USL Championship Golden Boot award.[16] Orange County SC finished the 2022 season 7-14-13 with 34 points, last in the Western Conference.[17]
The 2023 season also did not start strongly for Orange County, with just one win in eight games, with a 1-4-3 record before the team relieved Chaplow of duties and promoted newly hired assistant coach Morten Karlsen to interim head coach on May 1, 2023.[18] Karlsen led the team to a season-end 2nd place Western Conference placement at 17-11-6, earning two consecutive USL Championship Coach of the Month awards for July and August.[19] Coach Karlsen was appointed as Head Coach on a multi-year contract, announced November 2023.[20]
Orange County lost star forward Milan Iloski during the 2024 January transfer window to Danish Superliga club FC Nordsjælland.[21][22] The loss of the former Golden Boot winner resulted in Orange County having a mediocre start to their 2024 season, with a record of 6-3-6 by late June.[23] This start contributed to Coach Karlsen making a transfer in the middle of the season to another club in the Danish Superliga, Lyngby BK.[24] He was replaced by the assistant coach, Paul Hardyman,[25] who after being labelled as an interim coach, was promoted to lead as the official coach,[26] before he himself was sacked by the team and replaced by another assistant coach Danny Stone after a six-game winless streak.[27] Under Danny Stone, Orange County was able to rescue their season and clinch a visit to the playoffs, where they were eliminated in the Western conference semi-finals against the Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC.[28]
Stadium
[edit]- Titan Stadium; Fullerton, California (2011–2013)
- Anteater Stadium; Irvine, California (2014–2016)
- Championship Soccer Stadium; Irvine, California (2017–present)

In October 2023, it was announced the City of Irvine and Orange County SC had drafted a 5-year agreement for the team to operate Championship Soccer Stadium.[29] On October 23, City Council voted unanimously to approve the deal, striking a stadium naming right clause in the agreement for separate negotiation and later City Council approval.[30] The 5-year agreement includes one 5-year renewal.
Club culture
[edit]Rivalries
[edit]Ventura County FC
[edit]Orange County competes in the 405 Derby against rivals Ventura County FC, formerly known as LA Galaxy II, nicknamed after Interstate-405, an interstate highway that links between Orange County and Los Angeles County.[31] The clubs were in a dispute over who would play at Championship Soccer Stadium in late 2022, after leaked documents showed the Galaxy organization attempted to seize full-time usage of the venue.[32] The rivalry has slowed down as of late, as after LA Galaxy II moved to MLS Next, the third tier of the American soccer system, both teams have only met in pre-season friendlies.[33][34]

Supporter groups
[edit]Orange County has one main supporter group, named the County Line Coalition.[35] A zero-fee supporter group that was founded in 2014 in correspondence with the rebrand from the Los Angeles Blues to the Orange County Blues SC,[36] they mainly sit in the left corner of the general seating bleachers behind the north goalpost, chanting and singing songs adapted to the tune of popular music, like "Take Me Home, Country Roads" by John Denver, amongst others.[37]

Mascot
[edit]On April 9, 2021, Orange County introduced their new mascot, Gnarly.[38] He is an orange, surf-themed monster that can be typically seen on game day and at various Orange County SC activities around the county.[39]
Players and staff
[edit]Current roster
[edit]- As of July 17, 2025[40]
Note: Flags indicate national team as defined under FIFA eligibility rules; some limited exceptions apply. Players may hold more than one non-FIFA nationality.
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Academy
[edit]Note: Flags indicate national team as defined under FIFA eligibility rules; some limited exceptions apply. Players may hold more than one non-FIFA nationality.
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Out on Loan
[edit]Note: Flags indicate national team as defined under FIFA eligibility rules; some limited exceptions apply. Players may hold more than one non-FIFA nationality.
|
Front office
[edit]
James Keston – Owner & CEO[41]
Peter Nugent – Sports Director
Dan Rutstein - Interim President of Business Operations
Technical staff
[edit]
Danny Stone - Head Coach
Robert Earnshaw – Assistant Coach
Didier Crettenand – Assistant Coach
Victor Nogueira – Goalkeeping Coach
Mitch Deyhle – Director of Sports Medicine & Head Athletic Trainer
Head coaches
[edit]
Charlie Naimo (2011–2012)
Jesus Rico-Sanz (2012–2013)
Dariush Yazdani (2013–2014)
Oliver Wyss (2014–2016)
Barry Venison (2016)
Logan Pause (2017)
Braeden Cloutier (2018–2021)
Richard Chaplow (2021–2023)
Morten Karlsen (2023–2024)
Paul Hardyman (2024)
Danny Stone (2024-)
Record
[edit]Year-by-year
[edit]This is a partial list of the last five seasons completed by the club. For the full season-by-season history, see List of Orange County SC seasons.
| Season | League | Position | Playoffs | USOC | Continental / Other | Average attendance | Top goalscorer(s) | ||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Div | League | Pld | W | L | D | GF | GA | GD | Pts | PPG | Conf. | Overall | Name | Goals | |||||
| 2020 | 2 | USLC | 16 | 7 | 6 | 3 | 18 | 18 | 0 | 24 | 1.50 | 9th | 17th | DNQ | NH | DNQ | 3,188 | 7 | |
| 2021 | 32 | 15 | 10 | 7 | 44 | 37 | +7 | 52 | 1.63 | 2nd | 7th | W | NH | 3,302 | 16 | ||||
| 2022 | 34 | 7 | 14 | 13 | 49 | 59 | -10 | 34 | 1.00 | 13th | 23rd | DNQ | R3 | 4,230 | 22 ♦ | ||||
| 2023 | 34 | 17 | 11 | 6 | 46 | 39 | +7 | 57 | 1.68 | 2nd | 5th | SF | R3 | 4,411 | 17 | ||||
| 2024 | 34 | 13 | 14 | 7 | 40 | 47 | -7 | 46 | 1.35 | 6th | 14th | SF | R32 | 4,138 | 11 | ||||
^ 1. Avg. attendance include statistics from league matches only.
^ 2. Top goalscorer(s) includes all goals scored in league play, playoffs, U.S. Open Cup, and other competitive matches.
Honors
[edit]- USL Championship
- Winners: 2021
- USL Championship Western Conference (playoffs)
- Winners: 2021
- USL Championship Western Conference (regular season)
References
[edit]- ^ "Irvine-based soccer team changes ownership". Orange County Register. September 8, 2016. Archived from the original on June 15, 2018. Retrieved June 1, 2018.
- ^ a b USLSoccer.com Staff (September 8, 2016). "Blues Purchased by Southern California Businessman Keston". United Soccer League. Archived from the original on April 11, 2018. Retrieved June 1, 2018.
- ^ "Mehrshad Momeni: Consumed by the Game". OurSports Central. August 10, 2011. Retrieved June 1, 2018.
- ^ "OC Blues 2015 Player Postmortem: Mehrshad Momeni". Angels on Parade. Retrieved June 1, 2018.[permanent dead link]
- ^ LA Blues Set to Play in USL PRO Archived December 10, 2010, at the Wayback Machine
- ^ "Los Angeles Blues Sign First Three Players". Archived from the original on July 13, 2011. Retrieved December 15, 2010.
- ^ "United Soccer Leagues (USL)". Archived from the original on April 23, 2011. Retrieved April 19, 2011.
- ^ Scott French (April 13, 2012). L.A. BLUES: Starting over, with a plan. ESPNLosAngeles.com.
- ^ Baxter, Kevin (April 25, 2023). "It'll be personal for owner James Keston when Orange County SC takes on Timbers". Los Angeles Times. Retrieved September 20, 2025.
- ^ USLSoccer.com Staff (December 7, 2016). "LAFC, Orange County Blues FC Announce Multi-Year Partnership". United Soccer League. Archived from the original on December 10, 2017. Retrieved December 10, 2017.
- ^ MLSSoccer.com Staff (December 14, 2018). "LAFC announce end of USL affiliation with Orange County SC". Alicia Rodriguez. Retrieved December 14, 2018.
- ^ Merk, Carson (November 4, 2018). "Record Season for Orange County Ends. Phoenix Rises". OrangeCountySoccer.com. Archived from the original on September 10, 2020. Retrieved December 14, 2018.
- ^ "Orange County SC Aodhan Quinn and Thomas Enevoldsen Named to 2018 USL All-League First Team". Orange County SC Staff. OrangeCountySoccer.com. November 5, 2018. Archived from the original on September 24, 2020. Retrieved December 14, 2018.
- ^ "Orange County SC dismiss head coach Braeden Cloutier". Archived from the original on August 20, 2021. Retrieved January 12, 2022.
- ^ "Orange County SC drops Rowdies to win its first USL Championship title - SBI Soccer". sbisoccer.com. November 30, 2021. Archived from the original on January 12, 2022. Retrieved January 12, 2022.
- ^ "MILAN ILOSKI WINS THE FIRST GOLDEN BOOT IN CLUB HISTORY". Orange County SC. Archived from the original on February 2, 2024. Retrieved February 2, 2024.
- ^ "Standings". uslchampionship.com. Archived from the original on September 30, 2020. Retrieved February 2, 2024.
- ^ "CLUB STATEMENT". Orange County SC. Archived from the original on May 10, 2023. Retrieved February 2, 2024.
- ^ "HEAD COACH MORTEN KARLSEN BECOMES THE FIRST COACH IN CLUB HISTORY TO WIN USL CHAMPIONSHIP COACH OF THE MONTH". Orange County SC. Archived from the original on February 2, 2024. Retrieved February 2, 2024.
- ^ "ORANGE COUNTY SC APPOINTS MORTEN KARLSEN AS HEAD COACH WITH NEW MULTI-YEAR CONTRACT". Orange County SC. Retrieved February 2, 2024.
- ^ Burke, Elias (September 12, 2023). "Orange County SC's Milan Iloski moves to Nordsjaelland, continuing trend in USL". The New York Times. ISSN 0362-4331. Archived from the original on June 17, 2024. Retrieved June 25, 2024.
- ^ "Orange County SC's Milan Iloski headed to Europe after USL season". Orange County Register. September 13, 2023. Archived from the original on June 24, 2024. Retrieved June 25, 2024.
- ^ "Indy Eleven vs Orange County SC - Final Score - Standings - June 22, 2024". FOX Sports. Archived from the original on June 25, 2024. Retrieved June 25, 2024.
- ^ "Morten Karlsen er Lyngbys nye cheftræner - Lyngby Boldklub". lyngby-boldklub.dk (in Danish). June 25, 2024. Retrieved June 25, 2024.
- ^ "ORANGE COUNTY SC AND LYNGBY BK AGREE TO TERMS AS HEAD COACH MORTEN KARLSEN HEADS TO DENMARK". Orange County SC. Archived from the original on June 25, 2024. Retrieved June 25, 2024.
- ^ "ORANGE COUNTY SC NAMES PAUL HARDYMAN HEAD COACH FOR THE REMAINDER OF THE SEASON". Orange County SC. Archived from the original on July 21, 2024. Retrieved July 21, 2024.
- ^ "ORANGE COUNTY SC PARTS WAYS WITH HEAD COACH PAUL HARDYMAN". Orange County SC. August 29, 2024. Archived from the original on August 30, 2024. Retrieved August 30, 2024.
- ^ Murray, Nicholas (November 10, 2024). "Zach Zandi lifts Switchbacks to extra time victory against Orange County". USL Championship. Retrieved November 11, 2024.
- ^ "Orange County SC - City of Irvine - Great Park Championship Soccer Stadium Use Proposal". Orange & Black SoccerCast. October 8, 2023. Archived from the original on February 2, 2024. Retrieved February 2, 2024.
- ^ https://irvine.granicus.com/DocumentViewer.php?file=irvine_abf1f033e995c906f5d334e4952c0a44.pdf&view=1. Archived from the original on February 2, 2024. Retrieved February 2, 2024.
{{cite web}}: Missing or empty|title=(help) - ^ "EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW WHEN ORANGE COUNTY SC VISITS LOS DOS". orangecountysoccer.com. July 21, 2022. Retrieved July 27, 2022.
- ^ Calhoun, Damian (August 8, 2022). "Irvine City Council's plans to discuss use of Championship Soccer Stadium moved off of agenda". The Orange County Register. Retrieved August 8, 2022.
- ^ lagalaxy. "LA Galaxy II To Join MLS NEXT Pro Beginning In 2023 | LA Galaxy". lagalaxy. Archived from the original on March 31, 2023. Retrieved June 24, 2024.
- ^ Rodriguez, Alicia (December 6, 2021). "LA Galaxy to enter MLS Next Pro league in 2023". LAG Confidential. Archived from the original on June 24, 2024. Retrieved June 24, 2024.
- ^ "Home | County Line Coalition". County LineCoalition. Archived from the original on June 18, 2024. Retrieved June 18, 2024.
- ^ "Supporters Groups". Orange County SC. Archived from the original on June 18, 2024. Retrieved June 18, 2024.
- ^ "Supporter Chants". Orange County SC. Archived from the original on June 18, 2024. Retrieved June 18, 2024.
- ^ "EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE ORANGE COUNTY SC HOSTS SAN ANTONIO". Orange County SC. Archived from the original on June 18, 2024. Retrieved June 18, 2024.
- ^ Turner, Andrew (August 13, 2022). "City of Irvine considering options for future use of Championship Soccer Stadium". Daily Pilot. Retrieved June 18, 2024.
- ^ "Roster". Orange County Soccer Club. Archived from the original on June 24, 2024. Retrieved March 10, 2025.
- ^ "Front Office". Orange County Soccer Club. Retrieved March 10, 2025.
External links
[edit]Orange County SC
View on GrokipediaClub overview
Basic information
Orange County Soccer Club is a professional soccer club based in Irvine, California, competing in the USL Championship, the second tier of the American soccer league system. Founded in 2011 as the Los Angeles Blues in the inaugural USL Pro season, the club relocated to Irvine in 2014 as Orange County Blues FC and rebranded to its current name in 2017, with no connection to unrelated predecessor teams like the 1998 Orange County Blue Star of the Premier Development League.[1] The team plays its home matches at Championship Soccer Stadium in the Orange County Great Park, a soccer-specific venue with a capacity of 5,000 that includes professional locker rooms, training facilities, and fan zones.[4] Ownership is led by James Keston, who acquired the club in 2017 and serves as its primary owner and CEO, alongside a pioneering community ownership model through Republic that has engaged 1,463 shareholders worldwide as of January 2025, fostering deep fan involvement.[5] The club's colors are navy blue, orange, and white, reflecting its Southern California roots and energetic identity.[6] Danny Stone serves as head coach, having been officially appointed on December 12, 2024, following a successful interim role in 2024 that guided the team to the playoffs; Stone brings experience from prior assistant coaching positions within the USL system.[7] In the 2025 season, Orange County SC finished 7th in the Western Conference standings and advanced to the conference semifinals before a 2-1 defeat to New Mexico United on November 8.[8] The club's official website is www.orangecountysoccer.com, where fans can access schedules, tickets, and news, while maintaining a strong social media presence on platforms like X (@orangecountysc) and Instagram for real-time updates and community engagement.[9]2025 season summary
The 2025 USL Championship season marked Orange County SC's fifteenth year in the league, with the team finishing seventh in the Western Conference with a regular-season record of 10 wins, 9 draws, and 11 losses, accumulating 39 points over 30 matches.[10] The club scored 44 goals while conceding 45, reflecting a balanced but inconsistent offensive and defensive performance; at home, they recorded 7 wins, 5 draws, and 3 losses with 29 goals for and 20 against, while away results showed 3 wins, 4 draws, and 8 losses with 15 goals for and 25 against.[10] This positioning secured a playoff berth as the No. 7 seed in the Western Conference, building on a playoff appearance from the prior year. In addition to the league, OCSC competed in the 2025 Jägermeister Cup, advancing to the group stage.[11] Under head coach Danny Stone, who was appointed full-time in December 2024 following an interim role, the team emphasized a flexible 4-4-2 formation with fullbacks pushing forward to support attacks, contributing to late-game resilience in several matches.[7][12] Mid-season adjustments focused on bolstering defensive organization, which helped stabilize results after a nine-match winless streak in the summer, allowing the squad to clinch a playoff spot with key victories like a 2-1 home win over Indy Eleven on October 25, where Ousmane Sylla scored the decisive goal in stoppage time.[13][14] Other regular-season highlights included a 4-2 home victory against Oakland Roots SC on March 8, powered by second-half goals from Ethan Zubak, Nico Benalcazar, and Kyle Scott.[15] In the playoffs, Orange County SC advanced past the quarterfinals with a 0-0 draw against No. 2 seed Sacramento Republic FC on November 2, winning 5-4 in a penalty shootout where goalkeeper Colin Shutler made crucial saves.[16] Their run ended in the conference semifinals on November 8, falling 2-1 to No. 3 seed New Mexico United in Albuquerque; Malik Pinto equalized for OCSC in the 68th minute, but Dayonn Harris scored a stoppage-time winner for the hosts.[17] Forward Ethan Zubak led the team with 12 goals, providing consistent scoring threat, while assists were distributed among midfielders like Kyle Scott and Ousmane Sylla, who combined for key creative contributions in pivotal games.[18] Attendance at Championship Soccer Stadium averaged 4,470 fans per home match across 14 games, totaling 62,581 spectators, representing a slight increase from the 2024 average of 4,189 and indicating steady fan engagement amid playoff excitement.[19] The club's supporters, known for their vibrant Orange Army, showed increased involvement through themed matchdays and community events, contributing to a positive atmosphere despite the season's mixed results.[20]History
Founding and early years (2010–2013)
Orange County SC originated as the Los Angeles Blues, founded in 2010 by Iranian-American businessman Ali Mansouri as an expansion franchise for the inaugural season of USL Pro, the third tier of professional soccer in the United States.[21] The club emerged from the successful women's Pali Blues organization in the USL W-League, which Mansouri had previously owned and which had won multiple championships.[22] As one of 12 founding teams in the new league, the Los Angeles Blues aimed to establish professional men's soccer in Southern California, drawing on local talent and international players to build a competitive roster.[1] Under head coach and general manager Charlie Naimo, who brought experience from coaching the Pali Blues and serving as general manager for the Women's Professional Soccer's Los Angeles Sol, the team debuted in 2011 at Titan Stadium on the campus of California State University, Fullerton.[23] The inaugural season saw a solid performance, with the Blues finishing third in the Western Conference (National Division) with an 8-9-7 record and 33 points, qualifying for the divisional semifinals where they were eliminated.[24] Key contributors included forward Cesar Rivera, who led the team with six league goals, highlighting the blend of youth academy prospects and experienced imports on the debut roster.[25] The club played home matches in Fullerton, located in Orange County, but retained the Los Angeles name to appeal to a broader regional audience. The 2012 season brought challenges, as the Blues struggled with an 9-3-12 record, earning 30 points and finishing eighth overall, missing the playoffs amid difficulties in securing sponsorships and boosting ticket sales.[26] Owner Ali Mansouri noted the financial strains, including low attendance at Titan Stadium, which hampered league integration as one of the original USL Pro teams.[23] Naimo overhauled the roster, retaining only four players from the previous year and incorporating veterans like forward Bright Dike, who scored six goals, to stabilize the squad.[23] These early hurdles tested the club's viability in a competitive landscape dominated by East Coast teams. In 2013, the Blues showed improvement, achieving an 11-7-8 record for 40 points and securing sixth place overall, which earned them a spot in the USL Pro playoffs where they advanced to the quarterfinals before falling to the Charleston Battery.[27] Standouts included forwards Matthew Fondy and Chris Cortez, each netting 10 goals to power the offense.[28] Despite on-field progress, ongoing financial pressures and the need for stronger local ties prompted considerations for rebranding and venue changes to better align with the Orange County community, setting the stage for future evolution.[23]Orange County Blues era (2014–2016)
In early 2014, the club relocated from Los Angeles to Irvine, California, and underwent a rebranding to Orange County Blues FC to better align with its new regional base and establish a stronger local identity.[29][30] The move to Anteater Stadium at the University of California, Irvine, marked the team's first stable home venue in Orange County, facilitating improved community engagement and operational stability after years of nomadic play.[31] The 2015 season represented a high point under head coach Oliver Wyss, who led the Blues to the USL Western Conference regular season championship with a dominant performance that included 14 wins.[31][32] This success propelled the team into the playoffs, where they advanced to the Western Conference semifinals before falling to LA Galaxy II.[32] Attendance grew steadily, averaging around 1,500 fans per match at Anteater Stadium, bolstered by family-oriented events that helped cultivate a burgeoning supporter base in the region.[30] Roster development emphasized integrating local talent alongside international players, with Wyss implementing a European-inspired youth structure to nurture pathways from academy levels to the professional squad.[30] This approach introduced early academy connections, allowing promising Orange County prospects to train and compete alongside seasoned professionals from 16 nations, laying groundwork for sustainable talent pipelines.[30] The 2016 season saw a decline, with the Blues finishing eighth in the Western Conference on a 12-4-14 record and exiting in the playoff quarterfinals, amid internal challenges that set the stage for an ownership transition later that year.[33][34]Modern era and rebranding (2017–2025)
In 2017, businessman James Keston acquired the Orange County Blues FC and rebranded the club as Orange County SC, marking a new chapter focused on professionalization and community engagement. Keston, who serves as owner and CEO, invested in infrastructure and operations to elevate the team's competitiveness in the USL Championship. This rebranding included a modernized logo and identity that emphasized the club's roots in Southern California soccer culture.[1] That same year, Orange County SC entered into a multi-year affiliation with Major League Soccer's Los Angeles FC (LAFC), allowing LAFC to loan players to the club starting in 2017 to aid development ahead of LAFC's MLS debut in 2018. The partnership facilitated the integration of young talent into competitive matches, enhancing Orange County SC's roster depth and providing a bridge for prospects between youth systems and professional play. The affiliation concluded by mutual agreement after the 2018 season, having contributed to improved on-field performance and player pathways.[35][36] A pivotal milestone came in 2018 when Orange County SC clinched the USL Western Conference regular-season title, securing home-field advantage throughout the playoffs with a strong finish to the campaign. The team advanced to the Western Conference Final but lost to Phoenix Rising FC.[37] Building on this success, the club achieved its greatest accomplishment in 2021 by winning the USL Championship under head coach Richard Chaplow, who took over midway through the season and led the team to its first league title in a decisive final victory. Chaplow's tactical approach emphasized defensive solidity and quick transitions, culminating in a 3-1 win over the Tampa Bay Rowdies, with Ronaldo Damus scoring two goals.[38] Coaching transitions in 2024 reflected ongoing efforts to sustain momentum, with Paul Hardyman stepping down mid-season and Danny Stone appointed as interim head coach in August for the remainder of the year. Stone's leadership stabilized the squad, guiding them to a playoff berth, and in December 2024, he was officially named head coach for the 2025 season on a multi-year contract. This move underscored the club's commitment to continuity and youth-focused strategies. In 2025, under head coach Danny Stone, OCSC finished seventh in the Western Conference, advanced past the quarterfinals on penalties against Sacramento Republic FC, but were eliminated in the conference semifinals by New Mexico United on a last-minute goal.[39][7][40] In 2023, Orange County SC launched a groundbreaking fan ownership initiative through a crowdfunding platform, allowing supporters worldwide to purchase shares starting at modest investments and fostering deeper community ties. The program expanded in 2024 to target UK fans via a transatlantic campaign, raising over $300,000 and attracting 303 new shareholders, bringing the total to 1,766 owners as of January 2025. This model not only provided financial support but also enhanced fan involvement in club decisions.[41][42][5] Parallel to these developments, the club expanded its youth and reserve programs with the establishment of OCSC II as a dedicated reserve team in the USL Academy League, creating structured pathways for emerging talent aged 14-17 to transition to professional levels. These initiatives, including tryouts and developmental matches at Championship Soccer Stadium, have integrated seamlessly with the first team, supporting long-term sustainability and talent cultivation.[43][44]Stadium and facilities
Championship Soccer Stadium
The Championship Soccer Stadium serves as the current home venue for Orange County SC, located at the Orange County Great Park in Irvine, California, and opened on August 5, 2017.[45] Situated at 8272 Great Park Blvd., the stadium replaced earlier temporary sites used by the club and provides a dedicated soccer-specific facility within a larger 1,300-acre public park development.[4] With a capacity of 5,000 spectators, including 2,500 permanent seats and additional berm seating for expansion, the stadium features professional locker rooms, training facilities, concession areas, a box office, and an interactive True Path Fan Zone for enhanced supporter engagement.[46] The surrounding Great Park complex includes seven soccer fields for training and community practices, supporting youth and amateur programs while promoting broader public access to athletic amenities.[46] Sustainability is integrated through the stadium's operation on 100% renewable energy supplied by the Orange County Power Authority, aligning with regional environmental goals.[47] In October 2023, Orange County SC secured a 10-year use agreement with the City of Irvine, extending tenancy at the stadium through 2033 and ensuring continued priority access for club matches alongside provisions for community and youth events.[48] Matchday experiences emphasize an intimate atmosphere, with fans enjoying close proximity to the pitch in the open-air venue, free parking across multiple Great Park lots, and easy access to nearby attractions like the park's iconic tethered helium balloon ride and sports facilities.[49] This setup fosters a vibrant, family-friendly environment that highlights the stadium's role in local recreation and professional soccer.[50]Previous venues
Orange County SC's venue history prior to its current home reflects a period of instability typical for lower-division soccer clubs in Southern California, marked by relocations driven by facility availability and the need for a more localized identity. From 2011 to 2013, as the Los Angeles Blues, the club primarily played its home matches at Titan Stadium on the campus of California State University, Fullerton, a multi-purpose facility shared with the university's athletic programs.[51] Occasional scheduling conflicts at Titan led to games being hosted at alternative sites, highlighting the challenges of relying on university venues with competing priorities.[52] In 2014, following the rebranding to Orange County Blues FC, the team shifted to Anteater Stadium at the University of California, Irvine, a move that better aligned with its emerging regional focus and provided a more consistent setting for home games through the 2016 season.[34] Anteater Stadium, with its capacity for several thousand spectators, served as a temporary base amid ongoing searches for a dedicated facility, though lease arrangements with the university limited long-term planning.[53] This period saw attendance gradually increase from modest figures in the early years, as the club worked to foster local support despite the nomadic setup. The 2017 rebranding to Orange County SC coincided with another transition to temporary fields at the Orange County Great Park in Irvine, where the club played its initial home matches while construction progressed on a permanent stadium.[54] These interim setups, consisting of portable infrastructure on existing park fields, accommodated the first seven home games of the season before the opening of Championship Soccer Stadium in August 2017. The relocations stemmed from broader issues in Southern California, including short-term leases at academic institutions, competition for multi-use spaces amid urban development, and the high cost of securing soccer-specific venues in a region dominated by major league teams. These factors contributed to attendance variability, with early instability hindering consistent fan growth, though the club actively pursued community outreach—such as youth clinics and local partnerships—to maintain engagement during transitions. Paving the way for a stable home in Irvine, these experiences underscored the importance of a dedicated facility for long-term viability.Club identity and culture
Name, colors, and crest
Orange County Soccer Club, commonly known as Orange County SC, traces its naming evolution to its origins in the United Soccer League (USL) system. Founded in 2010 as the Los Angeles Blues, the club relocated and rebranded to the Orange County Blues in 2014 to better reflect its base in Irvine, California. In 2017, under new ownership, it underwent a significant rebranding to Orange County SC, emphasizing a broader regional identity while retaining ties to its professional soccer roots.[55][56] The club's official colors since the 2017 rebranding are black (primary), orange (as an accent representing the county's namesake citrus heritage), and white. These hues are prominently featured in the team's kits, which are supplied by Danish apparel brand Hummel under a multi-year partnership that began in 2024 and continues into 2025. For the 2025 season, kits include a "Back to Blue" design incorporating navy accents as a nod to the club's pre-2017 history, alongside standard black-and-orange home and away variations.[6][57][58][59] The current crest, introduced with the 2017 rebranding in collaboration with design firm Art Machine, centers on a stylized orange slice integrated with a soccer ball and the outline of Orange County's map. This design symbolically ties the club to local identity: the orange slice evokes the region's agricultural legacy, the county outline highlights geographic pride, and subtle sprigs draw from the California state seal's spear motif for broader regional heritage. The crest's bold, minimalist aesthetic was developed with fan input to foster community connection.[60][56] Sponsorship integrations appear on the kits, with Hoag Hospital serving as the front-of-kit partner since 2017 under a long-term agreement that emphasizes local healthcare ties. This partnership, extended in 2024 for five years, features the Hoag logo on match jerseys, aligning the club's branding with community-focused initiatives in Orange County.[61][62]Mascot and traditions
Orange County SC's official mascot is Gnarly the Lion, introduced in 2022 to enhance fan interaction and embody the club's energetic spirit. Gnarly appears at home matches at Championship Soccer Stadium, engaging spectators with dances, races, and photo opportunities during pre-game and intermission periods. Beyond the pitch, Gnarly participates in community appearances, including school visits and public events, to promote soccer and positivity among local residents.[63] Matchday traditions emphasize inclusivity and local flavor, evolving post-2017 rebranding to create a family-friendly environment that appeals to diverse audiences. Pre-match tailgates allow fans to gather in the parking areas with live music and food trucks starting 90 minutes before kickoff, building excitement in a relaxed setting. The "County Line" chant, set to the tune of Social Distortion's "Story of My Life," unites supporters with lyrics calling for passion and loyalty to the black-and-orange colors, often led from the dedicated fan section. Halftime shows incorporate elements of Orange County's multicultural heritage, featuring performances by local dance troupes and artists that celebrate regional diversity.[64][65][66][67] These elements, coordinated with the primary supporter group, the County Line Coalition, for enhanced energy, contribute to Gnarly's broader community impact through regular involvement in youth soccer clinics and charity initiatives, such as fundraisers for local nonprofits. By integrating Gnarly into these programs, the club strengthens ties with young fans and families, encouraging participation in sports and volunteering across Orange County.[68][69][70]Supporters and rivalries
Supporter groups
The County Line Coalition (CLC) is the primary independent supporter group for Orange County SC, founded in 2014 by local soccer enthusiast Blaine Jenks as a zero-fee organization dedicated to fostering grassroots passion for the club.[68][71] As of 2025, the CLC operates as an all-inclusive collective without formal membership dues, attracting hundreds of dedicated fans through its emphasis on community and accessibility, though exact numbers fluctuate with matchday participation and events.[72] The group's activities center on creating an electric matchday atmosphere at Championship Soccer Stadium, including organized chanting, drumming, flag-waving, and vocal support throughout games to energize players and spectators.[73] Members also organize away travel support, with groups of dozens traveling to key fixtures, such as the 2021 Western Conference Final, where around 50 diehards journeyed to rally the team.[74] Additionally, the CLC engages in community outreach by promoting professional soccer's growth in Orange County through inclusive events and collaborations that welcome families and newcomers to the sport.[75] Since the club's launch of its fan ownership model in 2023, the CLC has expanded alongside it, incorporating international elements like UK-based supporters who invested over $600,000 by December 2024 and became part-owners, contributing to a total of 1,463 shareholders as of January 2025 and enhancing the group's global reach and enthusiasm.[42][76][5] This growth has amplified the CLC's role in club culture, with their vibrant presence contributing to a 22% attendance increase from 2021 to 2023, averaging over 4,400 fans per match by 2025 and helping set club records for turnout.[77][78] Their influence extends to fan input on decisions, such as merchandise and engagement initiatives, strengthening the bond between supporters and the organization.[5]Key rivalries
Orange County SC's most prominent rivalry is the 405 Derby against Ventura County FC, formerly known as LA Galaxy II, named after the Interstate 405 highway that connects the two clubs' home regions in Southern California.[79] The competition originated in 2014 when LA Galaxy II joined the USL Championship, but it was officially dubbed the 405 Derby starting in 2017, reflecting the geographic proximity and regional tension between Orange County and the Greater Los Angeles area.[80] As of 2025, the all-time head-to-head record stands at 15 wins for Ventura County FC/LA Galaxy II, 10 wins for Orange County SC, and 5 draws across 30 matches.[81] Notable encounters in the derby include the inaugural 2017 matchup, which ended in a 1-1 draw, setting the tone for competitive fixtures.[79] A key moment came in 2021 when Orange County SC secured a 1-0 victory over Ventura County FC on October 30, clinching second place in the Pacific Division and boosting their playoff run to the USL Championship final.[82] The rivalry is characterized by intense media coverage as a cornerstone of Southern California soccer, with matches often drawing significant attention for their high stakes and passionate atmospheres.[80] Beyond the 405 Derby, Orange County SC has developed other notable rivalries within the Western Conference. The historical matchup with San Diego Loyal SC, which competed in the USL Championship from 2019 until folding in 2023, was fueled by geographic proximity as neighboring Southern California clubs, leading to heated regional derbies. Against Sacramento Republic FC, Orange County SC shares an enduring and unpredictable rivalry, highlighted by frequent playoff clashes and competitive regular-season battles, such as the four meetings in 2025 including the Western Conference Quarterfinals on November 2, where Orange County advanced via a 5-4 penalty shootout after a 0-0 draw before their season ended in the semifinals.[83][16][40] Culturally, these rivalries feature trash talk amplified by supporter groups like the County Line Coalition, contributing to vibrant matchday experiences, though incidents of fan clashes have been minimal compared to European counterparts. Media outlets often portray the derbies as emblematic of California's growing soccer scene, emphasizing local pride and competitive intensity.Management and ownership
Ownership model
Orange County SC's ownership is led by primary owner James Keston, who acquired the club in 2017 through his investment firm LARO Properties and serves as its CEO, overseeing all major operations.[1][84] The club transitioned from sole ownership under Keston to a hybrid model in 2024, incorporating community-based fan investment to enhance financial stability and engagement following key USL Championship developments that year.[5][85] This fan ownership initiative, launched via the Republic crowdfunding platform, attracted 1,463 shareholders in the initial US campaign closed in February 2024, followed by an international expansion to the UK that raised £561,450 from 1,893 investors, funded on March 25, 2025.[5][86][87] The structure features tiered equity shares starting at $50 (or £50 for UK participants), offering perks such as exclusive merchandise, voting rights on select club decisions, and access to special events to foster deeper stakeholder involvement.[41][85] These investments have boosted fan loyalty by creating a sense of shared ownership, while providing funds to support youth development programs and long-term club sustainability amid competitive league growth.[5][41]Front office and technical staff
The front office of Orange County SC oversees the club's administrative, financial, marketing, and operational functions, reporting ultimately to owner and CEO James Keston. Peter Nugent serves as President of Soccer Operations and General Manager, a role he assumed in December 2023 after joining the club in June 2015 as an assistant in soccer operations. An English native with a degree from Salford University, Nugent has been instrumental in player acquisitions, youth development pathways, and strategic planning, contributing to the club's consistent playoff appearances in recent years.[88][89] Lisa Keston holds the positions of Chief Financial Officer and Vice President of Community Relations, managing fiscal responsibilities and leading the OCSC Community Foundation's initiatives in youth soccer access and local partnerships. Dan Rutstein acts as President of Business Operations, focusing on revenue streams, sponsorships, and day-to-day management since his appointment in late 2023. In marketing, Hayden Czwarno, as Vice President of Brand & Marketing, drives fan engagement campaigns and digital content strategies that boosted attendance by over 20% during the 2025 season.[90]| Role | Name | Key Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|
| CFO & VP Community Relations | Lisa Keston | Financial oversight, community outreach |
| President of Business Operations | Dan Rutstein | Business development, operations |
| VP of Brand & Marketing | Hayden Czwarno | Marketing strategy, fan engagement |
| Role | Name | Key Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Head Coach | Danny Stone | Tactics, youth integration |
| Assistant Coach | Didier Crettenand | Reserves, first-team support |
| Assistant Coach | Dekel Keinan | Defensive coaching |
| Goalkeeping Coach | Victor Nogueira | Goalkeeper development |
| Head Athletic Trainer | Tanner Hata | Injury prevention |
| Head Physical Therapist | Rick Hernandez | Rehabilitation |
Players
Current roster (2025)
The 2025 roster for Orange County SC in the USL Championship consists of 29 players, with an average age of 23.2 years and 10 international players comprising 34.5% of the squad.[96] The team features several academy products, including goalkeepers Fernando Aguirre and forwards Cheick Kone, highlighting the club's emphasis on youth development.[96] International representation includes players from Japan, Scotland, Senegal, [El Salvador](/page/El Salvador), Switzerland, Norway, Serbia, and Ecuador.[97] Key performers in the 2025 season include forward Ethan Zubak, who led the team with 11 goals in 27 appearances, and defender Nico Benalcázar with 4 goals and 3 assists in 29 matches. Midfielder Chris Hegardt contributed 3 goals and a team-high 8 assists across 29 games.| Position | Player | Age | Nationality | Appearances (2025) | Goals (2025) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Goalkeepers | Colin Shutler | 27 | United States | 28 | 0 | Contract expires Nov 30, 2025; injured in September 2025[98] |
| Tetsuya Kadono | 25 | Japan | 3 | 0 | International; contract expires Nov 30, 2025 | |
| Fernando Aguirre | 19 | United States | 0 | 0 | Academy product; contract expires Nov 30, 2025 | |
| Defenders | Ashton Miles | 21 | United States | 0 | 0 | Centre-back; contract expires Nov 30, 2025 |
| Tom Brewitt | 28 | England/United States | 18 | 0 | Centre-back; contract expires Nov 30, 2025; injured since October 2025[99] | |
| Nico Benalcázar | 24 | United States/Ecuador | 29 | 4 | Centre-back; contract expires Nov 30, 2025 | |
| Vuk Latinovich | 28 | Serbia/United States | 25 | 2 | Centre-back; contract expires Nov 30, 2025 | |
| Tyson Espy | 16 | United States | 0 | 0 | Centre-back; signed August 2025; contract to 2027[100] | |
| Pedro Guimaraes | 17 | United States/Brazil | 21 | 2 | Left-back; academy product; contract expires Nov 30, 2025 | |
| Ryan Doghman | 28 | Norway | 27 | 3 | Left-back; international; contract expires Nov 30, 2025 | |
| Grayson Doody | 23 | United States | 0 | 0 | Right-back; contract expires Nov 30, 2025 | |
| Midfielders | Malik Pinto | 23 | United States | 0 | 0 | Defensive midfield; signed September 2025; contract expires Nov 30, 2025[100] |
| Kevin Partida | 30 | United States | 21 | 0 | Defensive midfield; contract expires Nov 30, 2025 | |
| Efren Solis | 17 | United States | 0 | 0 | Midfielder; academy product; contract expires Nov 30, 2025 | |
| Oliver Kurnik | 18 | United States | 0 | 0 | Midfielder; academy product; contract expires Nov 30, 2025 | |
| Stephen Kelly | 25 | Scotland | 16 | 1 | Central midfield; international; joined July 2025; contract expires Nov 30, 2025[100] | |
| Chris Hegardt | 23 | United States | 29 | 3 | Central midfield; contract expires Nov 30, 2025 | |
| Gavin Karam | 18 | United States/Iran | 0 | 0 | Central midfield; academy product; contract expires Nov 30, 2025 | |
| Ousmane Sylla | 24 | Senegal | 22 | 2 | Attacking midfield; international; contract expires Nov 30, 2025 | |
| Roberto Molina | 24 | El Salvador | 0 | 0 | Attacking midfield; international; signed August 2025; contract expires Nov 30, 2025[101] | |
| Forwards | Lyam MacKinnon | 26 | Switzerland | 0 | 0 | Left winger; international; contract expires Nov 30, 2025 |
| Cameron Dunbar | 23 | United States | 21 | 1 | Left winger; contract expires Nov 30, 2025 | |
| Nicola Ciotta | 19 | United States/Italy | 0 | 0 | Left winger; academy product; contract expires Nov 30, 2025; injured since September 2025, out for season[102][103] | |
| Bryce Jamison | 19 | United States | 22 | 2 | Right winger; academy product; transferred to Colorado Rapids April 2025, loaned back for 2025 season[104] | |
| Ethan Zubak | 27 | United States | 27 | 11 | Centre-forward; contract expires Nov 30, 2025 | |
| Tristan Trager | 26 | United States/Vietnam | 19 | 2 | Centre-forward; contract expires Nov 30, 2025 | |
| Mouhamadou War | 25 | Japan/United States | 29 | 3 | Centre-forward; international; contract expires Nov 30, 2025 | |
| Apolo Marinch | 15 | United States/Slovenia | 0 | 0 | Centre-forward; contract expires Nov 30, 2025 | |
| Cheick Kone | 19 | Cote d'Ivoire/United States | 0 | 0 | Centre-forward; academy product; contract expires Nov 30, 2025 |
Notable former players
Orange County SC has been instrumental in developing players who have advanced to Major League Soccer and European leagues, leveraging its affiliation with LAFC to facilitate pathways for talented alumni.[106] Several former players achieved significant milestones during their tenures, including all-time records for goals and appearances, while earning international recognition or record transfer fees.[107] Forward Milan Iloski emerged as a standout, becoming the club's all-time leading goalscorer with 38 goals and 11 assists across 62 appearances from 2020 to 2023.[107] In 2022, he set a single-season club record with 22 goals, securing the USL Championship Golden Boot as the first OCSC player to win the award, and contributed to the team's Supporters' Shield victory.[108] Iloski transferred to FC Nordsjælland in Denmark's Superliga in 2023 before joining the Philadelphia Union in MLS on a permanent deal in August 2025.[109] Defender Michael Orozco, a former U.S. men's national team member with 10 caps, established himself as the all-time appearances leader with over 100 matches for OCSC from 2019 to 2022.[110] As team captain, he anchored the defense during the 2021 USL Championship title win and amassed the most starts and minutes in club history by 2022, retiring at the end of the 2022 season. Another key figure, defender Kobi Henry, joined OCSC at age 16 via a USL Academy contract in 2020 and quickly became a regular, making 45 appearances.[106] His development led to a landmark transfer to Ligue 1's Stade de Reims in 2022, setting a then-USL Championship record fee and highlighting the club's youth-to-pro pathway.[111] Henry, who earned U.S. U-17 international call-ups, later moved to MLS with Real Salt Lake.[112] Forward Michael Seaton ranks second all-time in goals with 28 across 60 appearances from 2018 to 2019, earning multiple call-ups to Guyana's senior national team during his stint.[113] These alumni exemplify OCSC's role in fostering talent, with several progressing through academy signings to professional success in MLS or abroad.Records and honors
Season-by-season record
Orange County SC has competed in the USL Championship (formerly USL Pro) since its inaugural season in 2011, compiling a varied record across 15 campaigns through 2025. The club experienced early struggles but achieved notable success in the late 2010s, including a Western Conference regular-season title in 2018 and the league championship in 2021. By November 2025, Orange County had secured eight playoff berths, demonstrating improved consistency in recent years.[114][115]| Year | League | Regular Season (W-D-L) | Position (Western Conference unless noted) | Playoffs | Top Scorer (Goals) | Average Attendance |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2011 | USL Pro | 8-9-7 | 8th (overall) | Did not qualify | Cesar Rivera (7) | N/A |
| 2012 | USL Pro | 9-3-12 | 8th (overall) | Did not qualify | Bright Dike (6) | N/A |
| 2013 | USL Pro | 11-7-8 | 6th | Conference Quarterfinals | Matthew Fondy / Chris Cortez (10) | N/A |
| 2014 | USL Pro | 9-1-18 | 11th | Did not qualify | Allan Russell (8) | N/A |
| 2015 | USL | 14-5-9 | 3rd | Conference Finals | Christopher Ramírez (8) | N/A |
| 2016 | USL | 12-4-14 | 8th | Did not qualify | Trevin Caesar (10) | N/A |
| 2017 | USL | 11-10-11 | 10th | Did not qualify | Jerry van Ewijk (8) | 2,527 |
| 2018 | USL | 20-6-8 | 1st | Conference Semifinals | Thomas Enevoldsen (20) | 3,259 |
| 2019 | USL Championship | 15-9-10 | 5th | Conference Quarterfinals | Michael Seaton / Darwin Jones (12) | 3,192 |
| 2020 | USL Championship | 7-3-6 | 9th (overall, shortened season) | Did not qualify | Sean Okoli (7) | 399 |
| 2021 | USL Championship | 15-7-10 | 4th | Champions | Ronaldo Damus (14) | 3,646 |
| 2022 | USL Championship | 7-13-14 | 11th | Did not qualify | Milan Iloski (22) | 4,051 |
| 2023 | USL Championship | 17-6-11 | 3rd | Conference Quarterfinals | Milan Iloski (16) | 4,583 |
| 2024 | USL Championship | 13-7-14 | 7th | Conference Quarterfinals | Ethan Zubak (10) | 4,107 |
| 2025 | USL Championship | 10-11-9 | 7th | Conference Semifinals | Ethan Zubak (11) | 4,470 |