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Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC

Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC

Vargish's View

Vargish's View: Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC Head to Border Country for a Texas-Sized Showdown

Border country beckons as the Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC head to Far West Texas on Saturday evening at 7:30pm MT to face off against El Paso Locomotive FC at Southwest University Park.  The game in El Paso will be broadcast live by the voice of the Switchbacks, Ryan Kaufman, on XTRA Sports 1300 AM and xtrasports1300.com.  

Last Saturday the Switchbacks tied 1-1 with San Antonio FC in a wild match that saw both teams go down to 10-men.  Switchbacks center back Michael Edwards will miss the trip to El Paso after being sent off against San Antonio.  Matt Mahoney partnered captain Jimmy Ockford in the heart of Head Coach Brendan Burke’s defense after Edwards’ dismissal.  “Matt [Mahoney] is comfortable anywhere along the back line so that could definitely be a solve,” said Burke on Tuesday morning.  “We could also look to the [Colorado] Rapids to bring someone down.”

Border country beckons as the Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC head to Far West Texas on Saturday evening at 7:30pm MT to face off against El Paso Locomotive FC at Southwest University Park.  The game in El Paso will be broadcast live by the voice of the Switchbacks, Ryan Kaufman, on XTRA Sports 1300 AM and xtrasports1300.com.  

Last Saturday the Switchbacks tied 1-1 with San Antonio FC in a wild match that saw both teams go down to 10-men.  Switchbacks center back Michael Edwards will miss the trip to El Paso after being sent off against San Antonio.  Matt Mahoney partnered captain Jimmy Ockford in the heart of Head Coach Brendan Burke’s defense after Edwards’ dismissal.  “Matt [Mahoney] is comfortable anywhere along the back line so that could definitely be a solve,” said Burke on Tuesday morning.  “We could also look to the [Colorado] Rapids to bring someone down.”

“We’re excited after last weekend – we absolutely smashed San Antonio at home and we were unlucky for a number of reasons to not get a result,” continued Burke.  “Obviously the game got out of control, but for our part; I thought we were phenomenal.  We created chance after chance after chance and 95% of the time you win that game.  El Paso play midweek so there’s probably going to be some rotation for them, but for the guys they don’t rotate; we want to push the pace.  We want to play our way and our style and continue to build our identity.”

The Locomotive host Indy Eleven on Wednesday night at Southwest University Park, giving the Switchbacks a rare early-season opportunity to scout El Paso before this weekend’s match.  “Anytime we have an upcoming opponent, we always try to watch and have the guys watch live games and not just rely on our video,” said Burke.  “We understand that we’re going to play a team where their expectation is winning all the time and the quality of their roster is tremendous.  We can’t make mistakes down there or we’ll get punished.  We’ve seen top teams in our conference right off the bat, so we know exactly what we are and what we aren’t.”

This June, for Pride Month, Switchbacks midfielder Zach Zandi is part of Playing for Pride, in support of Athlete Ally and the Black Women’s Player Collective.  “Supporting the LGBTQ community is huge and important, and using my platform in any way possible to spread awareness and to do what I can to help that community is important to me,” said the former Villanova University midfielder.  “I hope it helps to bring attention and awareness to the cause and hopefully people can help out and donate money to help.” 

“We’re excited after last weekend – we absolutely smashed San Antonio at home and we were unlucky for a number of reasons to not get a result,” continued Burke.  “Obviously the game got out of control, but for our part; I thought we were phenomenal.  We created chance after chance after chance and 95% of the time you win that game.  El Paso play midweek so there’s probably going to be some rotation for them, but for the guys they don’t rotate; we want to push the pace.  We want to play our way and our style and continue to build our identity.”

The Locomotive host Indy Eleven on Wednesday night at Southwest University Park, giving the Switchbacks a rare early-season opportunity to scout El Paso before this weekend’s match.  “Anytime we have an upcoming opponent, we always try to watch and have the guys watch live games and not just rely on our video,” said Burke.  “We understand that we’re going to play a team where their expectation is winning all the time and the quality of their roster is tremendous.  We can’t make mistakes down there or we’ll get punished.  We’ve seen top teams in our conference right off the bat, so we know exactly what we are and what we aren’t.”

This June, for Pride Month, Switchbacks midfielder Zach Zandi is part of Playing for Pride, in support of Athlete Ally and the Black Women’s Player Collective.  “Supporting the LGBTQ community is huge and important, and using my platform in any way possible to spread awareness and to do what I can to help that community is important to me,” said the former Villanova University midfielder.  “I hope it helps to bring attention and awareness to the cause and hopefully people can help out and donate money to help.” 

Zandi started and impressed in an attacking midfield role in the match against San Antonio FC last weekend at Weidner Field, earning him the Better Business Bureau Man of the Match on the radio broadcast.  “Zandi was excellent,” said Switchbacks Head Coach Brendan Burke.  “All that’s missing is a goal or an assist now, and those are going to come in bunches for him.  You can’t play as well as he’s played to this point – over the course of all four games – and not come away with anything – we know those will happen.  He has to keep doing what he’s doing.  I was really happy with him – I think he can be special here for us in the long term.” 

“It was great to be in the team and to get into places a little further forward,” said Zandi.  “Now it’s just converting those chances – I had a few and I’m disappointed in myself for not making more of them.  It’s a good sign that I’m in those spots.  It was good to get a good point; we wish it was a win, but the fans were great.  It’s a great atmosphere to play in.” 

El Paso Locomotive defender Macauley King was named to the USL Championship Team of the Week after providing the assist in El Paso’s 1-0 win over the Austin Bold last Thursday evening in Texas’ capital.  The Locomotive have alternated ties and wins this season, with all three of their goals in 2021 having been scored by different players.  

“Our coaches this week will set us up with a great game plan and it will be up to us to execute it,” said Zandi.  “El Paso are a really good team so hopefully we can bring a lot of energy – and they play a midweek game, so we’ll be looking to bring a lot of energy down there and play our game.”

Zandi started and impressed in an attacking midfield role in the match against San Antonio FC last weekend at Weidner Field, earning him the Better Business Bureau Man of the Match on the radio broadcast.  “Zandi was excellent,” said Switchbacks Head Coach Brendan Burke.  “All that’s missing is a goal or an assist now, and those are going to come in bunches for him.  You can’t play as well as he’s played to this point – over the course of all four games – and not come away with anything – we know those will happen.  He has to keep doing what he’s doing.  I was really happy with him – I think he can be special here for us in the long term.” 

“It was great to be in the team and to get into places a little further forward,” said Zandi.  “Now it’s just converting those chances – I had a few and I’m disappointed in myself for not making more of them.  It’s a good sign that I’m in those spots.  It was good to get a good point; we wish it was a win, but the fans were great.  It’s a great atmosphere to play in.” 

El Paso Locomotive defender Macauley King was named to the USL Championship Team of the Week after providing the assist in El Paso’s 1-0 win over the Austin Bold last Thursday evening in Texas’ capital.  The Locomotive have alternated ties and wins this season, with all three of their goals in 2021 having been scored by different players.  

“Our coaches this week will set us up with a great game plan and it will be up to us to execute it,” said Zandi.  “El Paso are a really good team so hopefully we can bring a lot of energy – and they play a midweek game, so we’ll be looking to bring a lot of energy down there and play our game.”

Canadian goalkeeper Sean Melvin started his first match of the season in the Switchbacks’ draw with San Antonio FC last Saturday night after injuries sidelined the former UNC Wilmington Seahawk during the opening matches of 2021.  “It’s been a long time coming – I didn’t get a preseason or anything – so it was really nice to get back healthy and play with these guys and we got a point; but we wanted three points in front of the home crowd,” said Melvin.  “We’re going to put in good work this week and be prepared for the travel and the heat in Texas.  We need to focus throughout the whole game – all 90 minutes – and make sure we finish strong.” 

“We’re hopeful that Sean can get on a run now – that was really his first preseason game, and he did really well considering,” said Head Coach Burke, before being asked about the availability of former USMNT midfielder José Torres.  “José is dealing with a deep bone bruise in his foot, so he’s day-to-day right now.”  

The Switchbacks will return to Weidner Field next Wednesday evening as they host Tacoma Defiance with gates opening at 6pm, with Capelli Sport sponsoring a mask giveaway for the first 500 fans.  Tickets available HERE.

Canadian goalkeeper Sean Melvin started his first match of the season in the Switchbacks’ draw with San Antonio FC last Saturday night after injuries sidelined the former UNC Wilmington Seahawk during the opening matches of 2021.  “It’s been a long time coming – I didn’t get a preseason or anything – so it was really nice to get back healthy and play with these guys and we got a point; but we wanted three points in front of the home crowd,” said Melvin.  “We’re going to put in good work this week and be prepared for the travel and the heat in Texas.  We need to focus throughout the whole game – all 90 minutes – and make sure we finish strong.” 

“We’re hopeful that Sean can get on a run now – that was really his first preseason game, and he did really well considering,” said Head Coach Burke, before being asked about the availability of former USMNT midfielder José Torres.  “José is dealing with a deep bone bruise in his foot, so he’s day-to-day right now.”  

The Switchbacks will return to Weidner Field next Wednesday evening as they host Tacoma Defiance with gates opening at 6pm, with Capelli Sport sponsoring a mask giveaway for the first 500 fans.  Tickets available HERE.

Vargish's View: Switchbacks FC Are Back in Downtown Colorado Springs for Rematch of Season Opener

This Saturday at 6pm, the Switchbacks headline Weidner Field in downtown Colorado Springs as they welcome San Antonio FC to the Rocky Mountains in a rematch of the opening game of the 2021 USL Championship season.  A limited number of tickets remain available for this Saturday’s match and can be found HERE.

The game against San Antonio FC will be broadcast live by the voice of the Switchbacks, Ryan Kaufman, on XTRA Sports 1300 AM and xtrasports1300.com.   

Colombian striker Santiago Patiño leads San Antonio FC in goals with 5.  The former Florida International University Panther bagged a hat trick against the Switchbacks in the season opener in the Lone Star State on May 1st.  San Antonio FC tied the Rio Grande Valley FC Toros 1-1 on Saturday night behind a 40th minute goal from Marcus Epps.  Argentine Emil Cuello assisted Epps’ goal, after having been brought on after only 12 minutes to replace club captain PC.  Cuello was subsequently sent off in the 80th minute and will be suspended for Saturday’s match in Colorado Springs.  Tunisian center back Jasser Khmiri was named on the bench of the USL Championship Team of the Week after his performance alongside Liam Doyle and Mathieu Deplagne.  

This Saturday at 6pm, the Switchbacks headline Weidner Field in downtown Colorado Springs as they welcome San Antonio FC to the Rocky Mountains in a rematch of the opening game of the 2021 USL Championship season.  A limited number of tickets remain available for this Saturday’s match and can be found HERE.

The game against San Antonio FC will be broadcast live by the voice of the Switchbacks, Ryan Kaufman, on XTRA Sports 1300 AM and xtrasports1300.com.   

Colombian striker Santiago Patiño leads San Antonio FC in goals with 5.  The former Florida International University Panther bagged a hat trick against the Switchbacks in the season opener in the Lone Star State on May 1st.  San Antonio FC tied the Rio Grande Valley FC Toros 1-1 on Saturday night behind a 40th minute goal from Marcus Epps.  Argentine Emil Cuello assisted Epps’ goal, after having been brought on after only 12 minutes to replace club captain PC.  Cuello was subsequently sent off in the 80th minute and will be suspended for Saturday’s match in Colorado Springs.  Tunisian center back Jasser Khmiri was named on the bench of the USL Championship Team of the Week after his performance alongside Liam Doyle and Mathieu Deplagne.  

“I think it was obvious last time we played San Antonio that we didn’t match them physically,” said Switchbacks defender Matt Mahoney.  “We need to match the energy we’ve showed in the last couple games.  San Antonio are a physical, intense team and if we match that, we can get a win with who we have going forward.”

San Antonio have amassed 14 cards this season, with two being red – including the aforementioned straight-red for Emil Cuello last Saturday against RGVFC.  “San Antonio are consistently at or near the top of the league in fouls,” said Switchbacks Head Coach Brendan Burke.  “The game is dictated by the referees – hopefully they are out ahead of it this time.  San Antonio are seeing a lot of red and yellow cards and their style of play doesn’t seem to be changing at all.”  

“We have to do everything we can to be proactive – I don’t think we have the luxury of shifting lineups too much yet because we still don’t have a couple of our top guys available to us,” added Head Coach Burke.  “The reality is that just meeting the physical intensity of the game is all you can do, so we agreed in the locker room before we even left San Antonio that it would never happen to us again.” 

Last week the Switchbacks said goodbye to a familiar face as the United States Air Force reassigned Austin Dewing, with the Air Force Academy graduate set to begin pilot training. 

“I think it was obvious last time we played San Antonio that we didn’t match them physically,” said Switchbacks defender Matt Mahoney.  “We need to match the energy we’ve showed in the last couple games.  San Antonio are a physical, intense team and if we match that, we can get a win with who we have going forward.”

San Antonio have amassed 14 cards this season, with two being red – including the aforementioned straight-red for Emil Cuello last Saturday against RGVFC.  “San Antonio are consistently at or near the top of the league in fouls,” said Switchbacks Head Coach Brendan Burke.  “The game is dictated by the referees – hopefully they are out ahead of it this time.  San Antonio are seeing a lot of red and yellow cards and their style of play doesn’t seem to be changing at all.”  

“We have to do everything we can to be proactive – I don’t think we have the luxury of shifting lineups too much yet because we still don’t have a couple of our top guys available to us,” added Head Coach Burke.  “The reality is that just meeting the physical intensity of the game is all you can do, so we agreed in the locker room before we even left San Antonio that it would never happen to us again.” 

Last week the Switchbacks said goodbye to a familiar face as the United States Air Force reassigned Austin Dewing, with the Air Force Academy graduate set to begin pilot training. 

The Switchbacks have not played since May 21st and have only played three games this season – for comparison, San Antonio FC have already played five matches in 2021.  “We’ve had two two-week breaks in the first part of the season, which I’ve never even heard of before in any league, so it’s really disappointing but we have to manage it as well as we can,” said Head Coach Burke.  “We came out of the last break in good form, but that’s hard to replicate.  What we really crave right now is a consistent schedule and maybe a break in the schedule in terms of the strength of opponent.” 

“Time has been good and given us time to work on the things that we’ve needed to work on, but to be honest with the long breaks at times it’s still felt a bit like preseason because we haven’t gotten into the flow of having a game each week,” said Matt Mahoney.  “I think this week we’re fresh and ready to go out and get a win.  We know what we can do, and it’s important we play our game and if we can do that I think, with our quality, we’ll be able to get a win.”

The Switchbacks have not played since May 21st and have only played three games this season – for comparison, San Antonio FC have already played five matches in 2021.  “We’ve had two two-week breaks in the first part of the season, which I’ve never even heard of before in any league, so it’s really disappointing but we have to manage it as well as we can,” said Head Coach Burke.  “We came out of the last break in good form, but that’s hard to replicate.  What we really crave right now is a consistent schedule and maybe a break in the schedule in terms of the strength of opponent.” 

“Time has been good and given us time to work on the things that we’ve needed to work on, but to be honest with the long breaks at times it’s still felt a bit like preseason because we haven’t gotten into the flow of having a game each week,” said Matt Mahoney.  “I think this week we’re fresh and ready to go out and get a win.  We know what we can do, and it’s important we play our game and if we can do that I think, with our quality, we’ll be able to get a win.”

“It’s huge for us to be able to get some video done and see the mistakes that we made in the first game against San Antonio, so that we can see what we need to improve on,” said defender Sebastian Anderson on Tuesday morning.  “I feel like this week we’ll mainly just focus on ourselves for the most part, but obviously we’re going to watch film and look into any new things that San Antonio have, but the main focus is on us and doing what we do best.  It’s a huge boost for us to be back home and to play in front of our fans – it’s a blessing.  The energy and the electricity they bring every single game is unmatched.” 

The Switchbacks return to the road next weekend as they travel to Far West Texas to face El Paso Locomotive on Saturday evening at Southwest University Park.

“It’s huge for us to be able to get some video done and see the mistakes that we made in the first game against San Antonio, so that we can see what we need to improve on,” said defender Sebastian Anderson on Tuesday morning.  “I feel like this week we’ll mainly just focus on ourselves for the most part, but obviously we’re going to watch film and look into any new things that San Antonio have, but the main focus is on us and doing what we do best.  It’s a huge boost for us to be back home and to play in front of our fans – it’s a blessing.  The energy and the electricity they bring every single game is unmatched.” 

The Switchbacks return to the road next weekend as they travel to Far West Texas to face El Paso Locomotive on Saturday evening at Southwest University Park.

Switchbacks Entertainment Hold First Concert Series in New Weidner Field in Downtown Colorado Springs

On Thursday, May 27th, Weidner Field hosted the Star Festival, the first concert to be held at the new state of the art facility. The Star Festival, a Latin concert whose line-up included half a dozen prominent artists in the Latin music community, was the first of Weidner Field’s multiple concerts to be produced this summer.

 

While weather hung above the stadium for most of the afternoon, the sun came out in time to create a beautiful backdrop to the lively music that lasted well into the evening. 4,000 fans came out to enjoy the music, atmosphere and food available at Weidner Field.

On Thursday, May 27th, Weidner Field hosted the Star Festival, the first concert to be held at the new state of the art facility. The Star Festival, a Latin concert whose line-up included half a dozen prominent artists in the Latin music community, was the first of Weidner Field’s multiple concerts to be produced this summer.

 

While weather hung above the stadium for most of the afternoon, the sun came out in time to create a beautiful backdrop to the lively music that lasted well into the evening. 4,000 fans came out to enjoy the music, atmosphere and food available at Weidner Field.

Friday, May 28th, saw the second concert to grace Weidner Field. Justin Moore, Chris Janson and Mackenzie Porter performed in the first of many country concerts to be hosted by Switchbacks Entertainment for Summer 2021.

 

Fans showed their dedication, coming out in droves despite the bad weather to cheer on the artists during the first leg of an almost fifty stop U.S tour. Nearly 6,000 fans showed up to celebrate the start of summer and enjoy the music, food and atmosphere provided at Weidner Field.

Friday, May 28th, saw the second concert to grace Weidner Field. Justin Moore, Chris Janson and Mackenzie Porter performed in the first of many country concerts to be hosted by Switchbacks Entertainment for Summer 2021.

 

Fans showed their dedication, coming out in droves despite the bad weather to cheer on the artists during the first leg of an almost fifty stop U.S tour. Nearly 6,000 fans showed up to celebrate the start of summer and enjoy the music, food and atmosphere provided at Weidner Field.

Switchbacks Entertainment Host Colorado College Graduation at Weidner Field

On Sunday, May 30th, Weidner Field hosted the graduation ceremony of the 2020 graduating class at Colorado College.

 

Over 5,000 students attended the graduation, along with thousands more family and friends. The graduating class of 2020 had their official graduation ceremony cancelled last year due to COVID, so while they had already received their diplomas and entered the workforce, the gesture from the college to have an in-person ceremony was appreciated by many.

 

It was a beautiful sunny day at Weidner Field, and many families, filled with joy at the graduation proceedings, commented on how beautiful the brand-new Weidner Field was.

 

Weidner Field, home of the Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC, hosted their inaugural home opener game last weekend on the 21st, to a nearly sold-out crowd of 8,000 fans. Their 2021 season will continue through October, and Weidner Field will host a variety of events, concerts and festivals throughout these summer months. Visit https://www.switchbacksfc.com/tickets to learn more about the team and the events happening here at Weidner Field.

On Sunday, May 30th, Weidner Field hosted the graduation ceremony of the 2020 graduating class at Colorado College.

 

Over 5,000 students attended the graduation, along with thousands more family and friends. The graduating class of 2020 had their official graduation ceremony cancelled last year due to COVID, so while they had already received their diplomas and entered the workforce, the gesture from the college to have an in-person ceremony was appreciated by many.

 

It was a beautiful sunny day at Weidner Field, and many families, filled with joy at the graduation proceedings, commented on how beautiful the brand-new Weidner Field was.

 

Weidner Field, home of the Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC, hosted their inaugural home opener game last weekend on the 21st, to a nearly sold-out crowd of 8,000 fans. Their 2021 season will continue through October, and Weidner Field will host a variety of events, concerts and festivals throughout these summer months. Visit https://www.switchbacksfc.com/tickets to learn more about the team and the events happening here at Weidner Field.

Vargish's View: Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC Raring to Play in Historic Grand Home Opener Friday Night

Regular season soccer makes its debut in downtown Colorado Springs on Friday evening at 7pm MT as the Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC celebrate the Grand Home Opener at Weidner Field by welcoming New Mexico United.  The match will be broadcast live by the voice of the Switchbacks, Ryan Kaufman, on XTRA Sports 1300 AM and xtrasports1300.com. 

The Switchbacks stormed to a 4-0 win against Sporting Kansas City II last Friday evening behind goals from Austin Dewing, Michee Ngalina, and a brace by Hadji Barry.  Ngalina and Barry were both named to the USL Championship Team of the Week after their performances in Kansas City.  “It’s pretty natural after a good performance like that to be pretty positive and encouraged and have a better understanding of the style of play and the expectations now that we’ve seen it in practice and in a real game,” said Switchbacks Head Coach Brendan Burke.  “We saw the way we can play a couple times in the preseason…but Friday was great.  A lot of momentum comes from a night like that.”

Regular season soccer makes its debut in downtown Colorado Springs on Friday evening at 7pm MT as the Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC celebrate the Grand Home Opener at Weidner Field by welcoming New Mexico United.  The match will be broadcast live by the voice of the Switchbacks, Ryan Kaufman, on XTRA Sports 1300 AM and xtrasports1300.com. 

The Switchbacks stormed to a 4-0 win against Sporting Kansas City II last Friday evening behind goals from Austin Dewing, Michee Ngalina, and a brace by Hadji Barry.  Ngalina and Barry were both named to the USL Championship Team of the Week after their performances in Kansas City.  “It’s pretty natural after a good performance like that to be pretty positive and encouraged and have a better understanding of the style of play and the expectations now that we’ve seen it in practice and in a real game,” said Switchbacks Head Coach Brendan Burke.  “We saw the way we can play a couple times in the preseason…but Friday was great.  A lot of momentum comes from a night like that.”

Austin Dewing’s early strike that opened the scoring last Friday was the first professional goal for the former United States Air Force Academy Falcon.  “It was great to see him score,” said Head Coach Burke.  “Austin is that industrious, work-your-socks-off kind of guy, and he’s been putting himself in good positions, so to see him break through was huge.  He got rewarded for all his hard work, and that’s what he’s all about.” 

“It felt really good to score – it’s always a team effort and that goal really was,” said Dewing.  “Michee [Ngalina] played a great ball and did some nice defensive work to get the ball back, so I was just happy that I could do my part.” 

Dewing was eventually forced out of the win in Kansas City in the 74th minute after suffering an apparent knock, but the Air Force Second Lieutenant played down any injury concerns on Monday morning.  “I’m fine – just some bad bruises and probably some messed-up nerves or something, but nothing serious, and I’ll be ready to go,” said Dewing, before being asked about the opening of Weidner Field.  “It’s been a long time coming for this team, but also for the city and the community, so we’re as excited as you can be and we’re just looking to prepare in the right way and be ready to go on Friday.” 

Austin Dewing’s early strike that opened the scoring last Friday was the first professional goal for the former United States Air Force Academy Falcon.  “It was great to see him score,” said Head Coach Burke.  “Austin is that industrious, work-your-socks-off kind of guy, and he’s been putting himself in good positions, so to see him break through was huge.  He got rewarded for all his hard work, and that’s what he’s all about.” 

“It felt really good to score – it’s always a team effort and that goal really was,” said Dewing.  “Michee [Ngalina] played a great ball and did some nice defensive work to get the ball back, so I was just happy that I could do my part.” 

Dewing was eventually forced out of the win in Kansas City in the 74th minute after suffering an apparent knock, but the Air Force Second Lieutenant played down any injury concerns on Monday morning.  “I’m fine – just some bad bruises and probably some messed-up nerves or something, but nothing serious, and I’ll be ready to go,” said Dewing, before being asked about the opening of Weidner Field.  “It’s been a long time coming for this team, but also for the city and the community, so we’re as excited as you can be and we’re just looking to prepare in the right way and be ready to go on Friday.” 

New Mexico United defeated Austin Bold FC 3-1 at Isotopes Park in Albuquerque on Saturday evening behind goals from Sergio Rivas, Brian Brown, and Amando Moreno.  “New Mexico are obviously a very heavily-resourced team, so they have a deep roster,” said Switchbacks Head Coach Brendan Burke.  “They’re bringing guys off their bench that have been all-stars in the league – you don’t see teams that are that deep every week, but we happen to have three of them in our division.  This is a huge test for us on Friday, and it’s good to have a game like this right on the back of a very positive performance, and now we’ll learn a lot more about ourselves this weekend.”

“It helps that we’ve seen New Mexico already in preseason, so we have a little bit of an idea of what they’ll come out like,” added Burke.  “But it doesn’t change much – we want to focus on us and what we did well on Friday, and also learn from our mistakes from the first two games and really build on our win.  We need to play our game and dictate our style with how we want the game to flow, especially in our stadium.”

New Mexico United defeated Austin Bold FC 3-1 at Isotopes Park in Albuquerque on Saturday evening behind goals from Sergio Rivas, Brian Brown, and Amando Moreno.  “New Mexico are obviously a very heavily-resourced team, so they have a deep roster,” said Switchbacks Head Coach Brendan Burke.  “They’re bringing guys off their bench that have been all-stars in the league – you don’t see teams that are that deep every week, but we happen to have three of them in our division.  This is a huge test for us on Friday, and it’s good to have a game like this right on the back of a very positive performance, and now we’ll learn a lot more about ourselves this weekend.”

“It helps that we’ve seen New Mexico already in preseason, so we have a little bit of an idea of what they’ll come out like,” added Burke.  “But it doesn’t change much – we want to focus on us and what we did well on Friday, and also learn from our mistakes from the first two games and really build on our win.  We need to play our game and dictate our style with how we want the game to flow, especially in our stadium.”

Another bright spot for the Switchbacks in Friday’s win was a first career professional start, and shutout, for goalkeeper Andrew Pannenberg.  “It felt fantastic just to be out there with the guys and to get the first team win,” said the keeper who previously starred for the Demon Deacons of Wake Forest University.  “I think this week we’re going to focus on ourselves, but we know that New Mexico like to go forward really quickly and with a lot of numbers, so we’ll look at them and see how to handle that.  We played them in preseason so I think we know them pretty well, and I know we’re all looking forward to it.  We need to stick to some of the things that we’ve already been focusing on.  I think we learned a lot from the game in Kansas City –  we needed to come out a little stronger in the second half, even with the lead that we had.”

Tickets remain available for Friday’s historic clash with New Mexico United. 

“We’re all excited for Friday,” said Pannenberg.  “Just to see this stadium come together with being here in preseason, and walking up to training the first couple weeks and then finally being in here, it’s special.  Some of the events, the opening with The Epicenter [sculpture] out there, and the season ticket holder events…just to see the people and buzz, I know we’re all excited and expecting a good crowd and a great energy.”

“I think the crowd is important to the way we play and our energy level, so hopefully that’s going to be an advantage for us in the long-term at home, and hopefully that starts this weekend,” said Head Coach Burke.  “We obviously like to get after it, and New Mexico aren’t a team that likes to play with the ball on the ground too much, but hopefully we’re able to play the way we want to play this weekend.  I’m excited for us to be in front of the home crowd for the first time – it’s a big one for us.” 

Another bright spot for the Switchbacks in Friday’s win was a first career professional start, and shutout, for goalkeeper Andrew Pannenberg.  “It felt fantastic just to be out there with the guys and to get the first team win,” said the keeper who previously starred for the Demon Deacons of Wake Forest University.  “I think this week we’re going to focus on ourselves, but we know that New Mexico like to go forward really quickly and with a lot of numbers, so we’ll look at them and see how to handle that.  We played them in preseason so I think we know them pretty well, and I know we’re all looking forward to it.  We need to stick to some of the things that we’ve already been focusing on.  I think we learned a lot from the game in Kansas City –  we needed to come out a little stronger in the second half, even with the lead that we had.”

Tickets remain available for Friday’s historic clash with New Mexico United. 

“We’re all excited for Friday,” said Pannenberg.  “Just to see this stadium come together with being here in preseason, and walking up to training the first couple weeks and then finally being in here, it’s special.  Some of the events, the opening with The Epicenter [sculpture] out there, and the season ticket holder events…just to see the people and buzz, I know we’re all excited and expecting a good crowd and a great energy.”

“I think the crowd is important to the way we play and our energy level, so hopefully that’s going to be an advantage for us in the long-term at home, and hopefully that starts this weekend,” said Head Coach Burke.  “We obviously like to get after it, and New Mexico aren’t a team that likes to play with the ball on the ground too much, but hopefully we’re able to play the way we want to play this weekend.  I’m excited for us to be in front of the home crowd for the first time – it’s a big one for us.” 

Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC Hold 2021 Tryouts for Special Olympics Unified Team

On Saturday May 15th, the Switchbacks FC held the first open tryouts in partnership with Special Olympics Colorado to build the first ever Special Olympics Unified soccer team in the USL.

Tryouts started at 10 am and were open to all Special Olympics soccer players, club players, and community members both male and female over the age of 16. The team will be made up of a mix of Special Olympics athletes and unified peer partners: players to help assist in ensuring full inclusion during play.

Two exhibition games have already been scheduled for the fall, with one hosted at the Colorado Rapids' stadium and one right here at Weidner Field. The 2021 regular season will be exclusively vs. the Colorado Rapids' Unified Team. 

The Switchbacks FC's Unified Team is sure to provide family friendly events and matches full of fun and some great soccer skills. Be sure to keep an eye our website for more information about upcoming games. 

On Saturday May 15th, the Switchbacks FC held the first open tryouts in partnership with Special Olympics Colorado to build the first ever Special Olympics Unified soccer team in the USL.

Tryouts started at 10 am and were open to all Special Olympics soccer players, club players, and community members both male and female over the age of 16. The team will be made up of a mix of Special Olympics athletes and unified peer partners: players to help assist in ensuring full inclusion during play.

Two exhibition games have already been scheduled for the fall, with one hosted at the Colorado Rapids’ stadium and one right here at Weidner Field. The 2021 regular season will be exclusively vs. the Colorado Rapids’ Unified Team. 

The Switchbacks FC’s Unified Team is sure to provide family friendly events and matches full of fun and some great soccer skills. Be sure to keep an eye our website for more information about upcoming games. 

Vargish's View: Switchbacks FC Ready for First Eastern Conference Opponents of 2021

The Switchbacks will play their second road game of the season on Friday evening as they visit Sporting Kansas City II at Children’s Mercy Park at 6pm MT.  The match will be broadcast live by the voice of the Switchbacks, Ryan Kaufman, on XTRA Sports 1300 AM and xtrasports1300.com. 

Sporting Kansas City II dropped their first match of the season 2-0 against FC Tulsa on May 1st, before drawing 1-1 with the OKC Energy FC last Friday night.  The Switchbacks fell 3-0 against San Antonio FC on May 1st behind a hat-trick from USL Championship Player of the Week Santiago Patiño.  

The Switchbacks will play their second road game of the season on Friday evening as they visit Sporting Kansas City II at Children’s Mercy Park at 6pm MT.  The match will be broadcast live by the voice of the Switchbacks, Ryan Kaufman, on XTRA Sports 1300 AM and xtrasports1300.com. 

Sporting Kansas City II dropped their first match of the season 2-0 against FC Tulsa on May 1st, before drawing 1-1 with the OKC Energy FC last Friday night.  The Switchbacks fell 3-0 against San Antonio FC on May 1st behind a hat-trick from USL Championship Player of the Week Santiago Patiño.  

“It’s not easy to get into a rhythm when you have two separate two-week long breaks in the first month of the season,” said Switchbacks Head Coach Brendan Burke.  “We have another two-week break coming up in a couple weeks.  Really for us, this is about building our identity, and that was a really good lesson in San Antonio that you can’t get punched in the mouth like that and then start to shy away, so we’ll be looking for a big response this weekend.  We should have gone to San Antonio and met the intensity and the physicality of the game – we were actually better in large spells of the game in terms of building and creating opportunities.  San Antonio were far more direct, but they were also far more successful in being direct.  That lesson that we took away from that game has to come out on Friday.” 

Friday’s match could feature three players who hail from the largest city in Africa, Kinshasa, the sprawling capital of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.  Enoch Mushagalusa made an immediate impact off the bench for Sporting Kansas City II last Friday night in the aforementioned 1-1 draw with OKC, as the Congolese striker brilliantly assisted Tyler Freeman’s goal.  Michee Ngalina and Beverly Makangila both started for the Switchbacks against San Antonio FC, with Ngalina in a wide attacking position and Makangila holding in midfield.

Predicting Sporting Kansas City II’s lineup remains an exercise in futility, with Head Coach Paulo Nagamura’s team undergoing constant rotation as the direct affiliate of Major League Soccer’s Sporting Kansas City.  Twenty-one players have seen time for Friday’s hosts in their opening two matches.  Both Duke brothers, Christian and Cameron, have logged minutes in 2021, while center-back Matt Constant has channeled his surname by starting both games for Sporting Kansas City II.  

“Having been in that position for a long time, I think you just have to know their style of play and approach to the game – the personnel becomes less important,” said Switchbacks Head Coach Brendan Burke when asked about the revolving roster of teams that share a close connection with MLS.  “Kansas City are a very good soccer-playing team, they have a good structure up and down their organization, and you know that everyone in the world knows they play 4-3-3 and make it expansive.  But they can get back-to-front quickly too, so I think we’ll have opportunities to hit them on the counter.  There were a couple guys for us with minor knocks who came limping out of that game against San Antonio, but they’ll be ready for Kansas City.”

“It’s not easy to get into a rhythm when you have two separate two-week long breaks in the first month of the season,” said Switchbacks Head Coach Brendan Burke.  “We have another two-week break coming up in a couple weeks.  Really for us, this is about building our identity, and that was a really good lesson in San Antonio that you can’t get punched in the mouth like that and then start to shy away, so we’ll be looking for a big response this weekend.  We should have gone to San Antonio and met the intensity and the physicality of the game – we were actually better in large spells of the game in terms of building and creating opportunities.  San Antonio were far more direct, but they were also far more successful in being direct.  That lesson that we took away from that game has to come out on Friday.” 

Friday’s match could feature three players who hail from the largest city in Africa, Kinshasa, the sprawling capital of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.  Enoch Mushagalusa made an immediate impact off the bench for Sporting Kansas City II last Friday night in the aforementioned 1-1 draw with OKC, as the Congolese striker brilliantly assisted Tyler Freeman’s goal.  Michee Ngalina and Beverly Makangila both started for the Switchbacks against San Antonio FC, with Ngalina in a wide attacking position and Makangila holding in midfield.

Predicting Sporting Kansas City II’s lineup remains an exercise in futility, with Head Coach Paulo Nagamura’s team undergoing constant rotation as the direct affiliate of Major League Soccer’s Sporting Kansas City.  Twenty-one players have seen time for Friday’s hosts in their opening two matches.  Both Duke brothers, Christian and Cameron, have logged minutes in 2021, while center-back Matt Constant has channeled his surname by starting both games for Sporting Kansas City II.  

“Having been in that position for a long time, I think you just have to know their style of play and approach to the game – the personnel becomes less important,” said Switchbacks Head Coach Brendan Burke when asked about the revolving roster of teams that share a close connection with MLS.  “Kansas City are a very good soccer-playing team, they have a good structure up and down their organization, and you know that everyone in the world knows they play 4-3-3 and make it expansive.  But they can get back-to-front quickly too, so I think we’ll have opportunities to hit them on the counter.  There were a couple guys for us with minor knocks who came limping out of that game against San Antonio, but they’ll be ready for Kansas City.”

“It makes it a little different – it’s an unexpected lineup with who Kansas City decide to bring down, who they’re keeping, what academy players are going to be in the mix, so it’s definitely up-in-the-air going into the match,” said Switchbacks captain Jimmy Ockford.  “If we get our game right, I think the most important thing in these early games is building an identity for ourselves.  The focus every single day is on us, our game, and how we can get better.  It’s only one game in, so it’s far too early to determine how we are as a side.  We’re still getting the chemistry together with all the guys and it’s unfortunate that we couldn’t play back-to-back weeks, but it’s made trainings even harder and the preparation even better, so I’m looking forward to Friday.  The key is to go in with confidence and believe in ourselves that we can win this game.”

The Switchbacks last played at the 18,467-person capacity Children’s Mercy Park in 2018, when Sporting Kansas City II competed as the Swope Park Rangers.  “Playing in those stadiums is what we wanted to do as kids and playing there will give us a lot of life,” said Switchbacks midfielder Steven Echevarria.  “When we play at home, the fans are our 12th player.  And when we play away at a big stadium it’s like having another player on the field too – you get more life and more space in the lungs.”

“It makes it a little different – it’s an unexpected lineup with who Kansas City decide to bring down, who they’re keeping, what academy players are going to be in the mix, so it’s definitely up-in-the-air going into the match,” said Switchbacks captain Jimmy Ockford.  “If we get our game right, I think the most important thing in these early games is building an identity for ourselves.  The focus every single day is on us, our game, and how we can get better.  It’s only one game in, so it’s far too early to determine how we are as a side.  We’re still getting the chemistry together with all the guys and it’s unfortunate that we couldn’t play back-to-back weeks, but it’s made trainings even harder and the preparation even better, so I’m looking forward to Friday.  The key is to go in with confidence and believe in ourselves that we can win this game.”

The Switchbacks last played at the 18,467-person capacity Children’s Mercy Park in 2018, when Sporting Kansas City II competed as the Swope Park Rangers.  “Playing in those stadiums is what we wanted to do as kids and playing there will give us a lot of life,” said Switchbacks midfielder Steven Echevarria.  “When we play at home, the fans are our 12th player.  And when we play away at a big stadium it’s like having another player on the field too – you get more life and more space in the lungs.”

“Continuing to do what we do best is key for us,” added Echevarria.  “Committing to our press, trusting in each other, and having each other’s back when anyone gets beat – and when we do that, our quality can show.  Last week’s training was very difficult – we pushed hard and we lifted and we did all the things that successful teams do.  Coach was making sure that after the game in San Antonio that we have some life in our legs for Friday, and I think we’ll be able to bring a lot of energy.  We focus on ourselves 100%; that’s what the best teams do.  Of course Kansas City have quality, so we’ll be wary of them and Coach will give us things to look at, but focusing on ourselves is what we need to do.”

The Grand Home Opener at Weidner Field will take place in downtown Colorado Springs on May 21st at 7pm MT as New Mexico United head to Southern Colorado to rekindle the Four Corners rivalry.  Tickets for the contest against New Mexico United are available HERE.

“Continuing to do what we do best is key for us,” added Echevarria.  “Committing to our press, trusting in each other, and having each other’s back when anyone gets beat – and when we do that, our quality can show.  Last week’s training was very difficult – we pushed hard and we lifted and we did all the things that successful teams do.  Coach was making sure that after the game in San Antonio that we have some life in our legs for Friday, and I think we’ll be able to bring a lot of energy.  We focus on ourselves 100%; that’s what the best teams do.  Of course Kansas City have quality, so we’ll be wary of them and Coach will give us things to look at, but focusing on ourselves is what we need to do.”

The Grand Home Opener at Weidner Field will take place in downtown Colorado Springs on May 21st at 7pm MT as New Mexico United head to Southern Colorado to rekindle the Four Corners rivalry.  Tickets for the contest against New Mexico United are available HERE.

Vargish's View: Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC Ready For Tough Test In 2021 Season Opener

On Saturday evening at 6:30pm MT the Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC kick off the 2021 USL regular season in the Alamo City against San Antonio FC at Toyota Field.  The game against San Antonio FC will be broadcast live by the voice of the Switchbacks, Ryan Kaufman, on XTRA Sports 1300 AM and xtrasports1300.com. 

“It’s going to be a big one and we’ve got to start the season right,” said center back Michael Edwards.  “I think we can get a good result in San Antonio if we stay focused and keep going on what we’ve been working on.  Preseason has gone well – we’ve had a couple good results against top teams so I think it’s been a good preseason so far.”

On Saturday evening at 6:30pm MT the Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC kick off the 2021 USL regular season in the Alamo City against San Antonio FC at Toyota Field.  The game against San Antonio FC will be broadcast live by the voice of the Switchbacks, Ryan Kaufman, on XTRA Sports 1300 AM and xtrasports1300.com. 

“It’s going to be a big one and we’ve got to start the season right,” said center back Michael Edwards.  “I think we can get a good result in San Antonio if we stay focused and keep going on what we’ve been working on.  Preseason has gone well – we’ve had a couple good results against top teams so I think it’s been a good preseason so far.”

After a successful preseason the Switchbacks will look to extend the positive momentum they created by scoring five goals in their last two matches.  “We need to play this weekend the same way we did against OC and Phoenix,” said midfielder José Torres.  “We have to keep doing the same things we have been all preseason and just fix the little errors that we’ve had in these games, and if we can do that I think we’ll do great.  This team just wants to have a good game and we have to get out there and do what we know how to do and enjoy the game, try to get a win, try to start on the right foot, and from there just keep moving on and keep working hard.” 

Due to the truncated 2020 USL Championship season, the Switchbacks have not faced San Antonio FC since a wild 2-2 draw in the Switchbacks’ final match of 2019.  Both teams saw players sent off, with the Switchbacks fighting back from two goals down to secure a tie in the 82nd minute.

“I watched a lot of San Antonio last year and the Switchbacks were lucky to not have to play them last season,” said Switchbacks Head Coach Brendan Burke.  “San Antonio were one of the league’s top teams.  They really didn’t lose at home, they were sharp, aggressive, and I think they had more fouls than anyone in the league.  They’re very forward-first, so I think it will be a really entertaining game for a neutral, but for us it will be a really good gauge of where we are.  They’re a heavily-resourced team that play in a similar style to us.”

“We have to go down there with lots of confidence,” said goalkeeper Sean Melvin.  “The guys have had some good experience from the last couple games in preseason so we need to just go down there and play the way we can play and I think it can go well.  We worry about ourselves first; obviously last year we didn’t get to play San Antonio, but it we go down there and play our way we’ll be good.”

Alamo City native, facial hair practitioner, and longtime San Antonio FC goalkeeper Matt Cardone remains in net for Head Coach Alen Marcina’s team.  Fans of soccer in the Rocky Mountains will recognize towering Swedish center back Axel Sjöberg from his time with the Colorado Rapids.  In San Antonio FC’s final preseason game, a 2-2 draw with Rio Grande Valley FC on Saturday, Tunisian Jasser Khmiri anchored San Antonio’s backline.  Up top, Columbian striker Santiago Patiño forms a potent striking-duo alongside longtime USL hitman Justin Dhillon for San Antonio FC.  

After a successful preseason the Switchbacks will look to extend the positive momentum they created by scoring five goals in their last two matches.  “We need to play this weekend the same way we did against OC and Phoenix,” said midfielder José Torres.  “We have to keep doing the same things we have been all preseason and just fix the little errors that we’ve had in these games, and if we can do that I think we’ll do great.  This team just wants to have a good game and we have to get out there and do what we know how to do and enjoy the game, try to get a win, try to start on the right foot, and from there just keep moving on and keep working hard.” 

Due to the truncated 2020 USL Championship season, the Switchbacks have not faced San Antonio FC since a wild 2-2 draw in the Switchbacks’ final match of 2019.  Both teams saw players sent off, with the Switchbacks fighting back from two goals down to secure a tie in the 82nd minute.

“I watched a lot of San Antonio last year and the Switchbacks were lucky to not have to play them last season,” said Switchbacks Head Coach Brendan Burke.  “San Antonio were one of the league’s top teams.  They really didn’t lose at home, they were sharp, aggressive, and I think they had more fouls than anyone in the league.  They’re very forward-first, so I think it will be a really entertaining game for a neutral, but for us it will be a really good gauge of where we are.  They’re a heavily-resourced team that play in a similar style to us.”

“We have to go down there with lots of confidence,” said goalkeeper Sean Melvin.  “The guys have had some good experience from the last couple games in preseason so we need to just go down there and play the way we can play and I think it can go well.  We worry about ourselves first; obviously last year we didn’t get to play San Antonio, but it we go down there and play our way we’ll be good.”

Alamo City native, facial hair practitioner, and longtime San Antonio FC goalkeeper Matt Cardone remains in net for Head Coach Alen Marcina’s team.  Fans of soccer in the Rocky Mountains will recognize towering Swedish center back Axel Sjöberg from his time with the Colorado Rapids.  In San Antonio FC’s final preseason game, a 2-2 draw with Rio Grande Valley FC on Saturday, Tunisian Jasser Khmiri anchored San Antonio’s backline.  Up top, Columbian striker Santiago Patiño forms a potent striking-duo alongside longtime USL hitman Justin Dhillon for San Antonio FC.  

“I’m sure San Antonio are dealing with issues like everyone else – like injuries and things like that –  and this will be the first time we get to see an injury-report,” said Head Coach Burke when asked about San Antonio’s preparation for the 2021 campaign.  “They have good young talent, they have a strong academy and they’re trying to lead the way for the league in that regard which is great to see because the USL needs to catch up to MLS in that regard and I know we’ll be trying to do the same in a different fashion here as we get our feet under us.” 

Conditions on Saturday in south-central Texas are forecast to be in the mid-70’s with thunderstorms possible after a week of rain across the drought-stricken Lone Star State.  “The guys have trained at altitude so I expect them to be fit,” said Head Coach Burke.  “We’ve dealt with the snow, we’ve had to go indoors, outdoors, so we’ve been yo-yo’d around quite a bit and we haven’t had a facility up until the last week, so we’re prepared to deal with anything at this point.”

Following this weekend’s trip to the Alamo City, the Switchbacks will have a week free from game action before heading to Children’s Mercy Park to play Sporting Kansas City II on Friday, May 14th.  Click HERE to view the full Switchbacks 2021 schedule.  

The Grand Home Opener at Weidner Field will take place in downtown Colorado Springs on May 21st at 7pm MT as New Mexico United head to Southern Colorado to rekindle the Four Corners rivalry.  Season tickets are the only way to confirm your tickets today and they can be purchased HERE or call 719-368-8480 to ensure your spot as a new era begins in Colorado Springs history.

“I’m sure San Antonio are dealing with issues like everyone else – like injuries and things like that –  and this will be the first time we get to see an injury-report,” said Head Coach Burke when asked about San Antonio’s preparation for the 2021 campaign.  “They have good young talent, they have a strong academy and they’re trying to lead the way for the league in that regard which is great to see because the USL needs to catch up to MLS in that regard and I know we’ll be trying to do the same in a different fashion here as we get our feet under us.” 

Conditions on Saturday in south-central Texas are forecast to be in the mid-70’s with thunderstorms possible after a week of rain across the drought-stricken Lone Star State.  “The guys have trained at altitude so I expect them to be fit,” said Head Coach Burke.  “We’ve dealt with the snow, we’ve had to go indoors, outdoors, so we’ve been yo-yo’d around quite a bit and we haven’t had a facility up until the last week, so we’re prepared to deal with anything at this point.”

Following this weekend’s trip to the Alamo City, the Switchbacks will have a week free from game action before heading to Children’s Mercy Park to play Sporting Kansas City II on Friday, May 14th.  Click HERE to view the full Switchbacks 2021 schedule.  

The Grand Home Opener at Weidner Field will take place in downtown Colorado Springs on May 21st at 7pm MT as New Mexico United head to Southern Colorado to rekindle the Four Corners rivalry.  Season tickets are the only way to confirm your tickets today and they can be purchased HERE or call 719-368-8480 to ensure your spot as a new era begins in Colorado Springs history.

Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC 2021 Preseason Recap

On Saturday evening, the Switchbacks concluded a successful 2021 preseason as they welcomed fans to the opening of Weidner Field in downtown Colorado Springs.  Two goals from Guinean striker Hadji Berry set the Switchbacks on their way to a 2-2 draw with Orange County SC as Head Coach Brendan Burke’s team gear up to start the regular season this weekend on the road against San Antonio FC.  

With three victories during an elongated preseason, the Switchbacks look to carry a much-changed roster into a marathon 32-game regular season that starts on Saturday evening.  

On Saturday evening, the Switchbacks concluded a successful 2021 preseason as they welcomed fans to the opening of Weidner Field in downtown Colorado Springs.  Two goals from Guinean striker Hadji Berry set the Switchbacks on their way to a 2-2 draw with Orange County SC as Head Coach Brendan Burke’s team gear up to start the regular season this weekend on the road against San Antonio FC.  

With three victories during an elongated preseason, the Switchbacks look to carry a much-changed roster into a marathon 32-game regular season that starts on Saturday evening.  

“I think we had a great preseason,” said midfielder José Torres.  “We played top teams and I think we did a good job in those games.  It’s a brand-new team here: we have great players and we have a lot of experienced players and I think this season we’re going to do very well.  As soon as the guys came in they knew what [Head Coach] Brendan [Burke] wanted.  This is a great group of guys and they work their butts off every day and if you see them in training they work so hard, and that’s what I like and that gives me a motivation to come out and work with these guys.”   

“Changing the identity of a team and of a club is really hard to do, but I think we’ve made strides during preseason,” said Head Coach Brendan Burke on Tuesday morning.  “It doesn’t happen overnight – it doesn’t even happen in a few months – but I think the mentality has been really good and a lot of work has been put in to try and start to shift the expectations around here.” 

In addition to last weekend’s draw with Orange County SC, the 2021 preseason for the Switchbacks included a win in the Valley of the Sun over 2020 USL Championship Western Conference Champions Phoenix Rising FC.

“I think the preseason went really well and we gelled well as a team and were able to build chemistry,” said forward Matt Hundley.  “It’s a new group all around so it was good to see that we were able to click that fast and be on the same wavelength.  Having so many new players brings competition and that brings great things so I think we’re going to be able to accomplish really good things this year.”

“It’s a good group, there’s competition and as you can see from the last game everyone is trying to be on the first team and that’s what’s needed,” said Kenyan midfielder Philip Mayaka.  “This is a young team, so we need to keep going and it’s good in our first game to start with a win and this week’s training will determine if we win or not – we’re working hard.”  

“I think we had a great preseason,” said midfielder José Torres.  “We played top teams and I think we did a good job in those games.  It’s a brand-new team here: we have great players and we have a lot of experienced players and I think this season we’re going to do very well.  As soon as the guys came in they knew what [Head Coach] Brendan [Burke] wanted.  This is a great group of guys and they work their butts off every day and if you see them in training they work so hard, and that’s what I like and that gives me a motivation to come out and work with these guys.”   

“Changing the identity of a team and of a club is really hard to do, but I think we’ve made strides during preseason,” said Head Coach Brendan Burke on Tuesday morning.  “It doesn’t happen overnight – it doesn’t even happen in a few months – but I think the mentality has been really good and a lot of work has been put in to try and start to shift the expectations around here.” 

In addition to last weekend’s draw with Orange County SC, the 2021 preseason for the Switchbacks included a win in the Valley of the Sun over 2020 USL Championship Western Conference Champions Phoenix Rising FC.

“I think the preseason went really well and we gelled well as a team and were able to build chemistry,” said forward Matt Hundley.  “It’s a new group all around so it was good to see that we were able to click that fast and be on the same wavelength.  Having so many new players brings competition and that brings great things so I think we’re going to be able to accomplish really good things this year.”

“It’s a good group, there’s competition and as you can see from the last game everyone is trying to be on the first team and that’s what’s needed,” said Kenyan midfielder Philip Mayaka.  “This is a young team, so we need to keep going and it’s good in our first game to start with a win and this week’s training will determine if we win or not – we’re working hard.”  

Former Colorado Foxes keeper Trey Harrington returns to Colorado Springs in 2021 as one of the most recognizable faces in the organization, having coached the Switchbacks’ goalkeepers since the team’s inception.  “The boys are battling this year for time and starting positions,” said Harrington.  “Preseason has been great.  With the anticipation of the new stadium, and moving into the stadium, and all the new staff and everything like that; the energy has been high.  The guys are now chomping at the bit to get out there and play somebody else – it’s been a great preseason.” 

The Switchbacks return two goalies to Colorado Springs for 2021, with Canadian shot-stopper Sean Melvin set for his second season in Southern Colorado.  Abe Rodriguez, who is on-loan from the Colorado Rapids, has been with the Switchbacks since 2019 and started against Orange County last weekend.  

“We’ve had a nice long preseason so guys have had a lot of time to get integrated to new coaches and a new style of play and I think it’s gone really well and I think you can see that in our last game where we performed really well,” said goalkeeper Sean Melvin.

The Switchbacks will open their season on Saturday evening against San Antonio FC at Toyota Field.  The game will be broadcast live by the voice of the Switchbacks, Ryan Kaufman, on XTRA Sports 1300 AM and xtrasports1300.com.

Former Colorado Foxes keeper Trey Harrington returns to Colorado Springs in 2021 as one of the most recognizable faces in the organization, having coached the Switchbacks’ goalkeepers since the team’s inception.  “The boys are battling this year for time and starting positions,” said Harrington.  “Preseason has been great.  With the anticipation of the new stadium, and moving into the stadium, and all the new staff and everything like that; the energy has been high.  The guys are now chomping at the bit to get out there and play somebody else – it’s been a great preseason.” 

The Switchbacks return two goalies to Colorado Springs for 2021, with Canadian shot-stopper Sean Melvin set for his second season in Southern Colorado.  Abe Rodriguez, who is on-loan from the Colorado Rapids, has been with the Switchbacks since 2019 and started against Orange County last weekend.  

“We’ve had a nice long preseason so guys have had a lot of time to get integrated to new coaches and a new style of play and I think it’s gone really well and I think you can see that in our last game where we performed really well,” said goalkeeper Sean Melvin.

The Switchbacks will open their season on Saturday evening against San Antonio FC at Toyota Field.  The game will be broadcast live by the voice of the Switchbacks, Ryan Kaufman, on XTRA Sports 1300 AM and xtrasports1300.com.

“I think we have to understand in the bigger picture that this first game is kind of an outlier because it’s so far separated from the rest of the schedule,” said Head Coach Burke.  “We’re still ramping up in a big way and will be for the next couple weeks.  We still have players who haven’t even arrived for preseason because of visa issues so we’re still dealing with a very strange environment.  But for the guys that have been here, I’ve been really pleased with the progress we’ve made.  It’ll take weeks – if not a month or more – to get the new players up to speed.  Not having a preseason is a really big issue for some of what I would hope are going to be some of our top players, so we have to get those guys integrated quickly but also safely because of the way we play.  I view this weekend and the next couple weeks as an extension of preseason, so we’ll get a fantastic gauge of where we’re at right now but we’re also keeping it in perspective.”    

“As the season goes by this team is going to be where Brendan wants it,” said José Torres.  “Obviously, we still have guys coming in, but the mentality of these guys is great – they know what Brendan wants.”

Following this weekend’s trip to the Alamo City, the Switchbacks will have a week free from game action before heading to Children’s Mercy Park to play Sporting Kansas City II on Friday, May 14th.  Click HERE to view the full Switchbacks 2021 schedule.  

The Grand Home Opener at Weidner Field will take place in downtown Colorado Springs on May 21st at 7pm MT, as New Mexico United head to Southern Colorado to rekindle the Four Corners rivalry.  Season tickets are the only way to confirm your tickets today and they can be purchased HERE or call 719-368-8480 to ensure your spot as a new era begins in Colorado Springs history.

“I think we have to understand in the bigger picture that this first game is kind of an outlier because it’s so far separated from the rest of the schedule,” said Head Coach Burke.  “We’re still ramping up in a big way and will be for the next couple weeks.  We still have players who haven’t even arrived for preseason because of visa issues so we’re still dealing with a very strange environment.  But for the guys that have been here, I’ve been really pleased with the progress we’ve made.  It’ll take weeks – if not a month or more – to get the new players up to speed.  Not having a preseason is a really big issue for some of what I would hope are going to be some of our top players, so we have to get those guys integrated quickly but also safely because of the way we play.  I view this weekend and the next couple weeks as an extension of preseason, so we’ll get a fantastic gauge of where we’re at right now but we’re also keeping it in perspective.”    

“As the season goes by this team is going to be where Brendan wants it,” said José Torres.  “Obviously, we still have guys coming in, but the mentality of these guys is great – they know what Brendan wants.”

Following this weekend’s trip to the Alamo City, the Switchbacks will have a week free from game action before heading to Children’s Mercy Park to play Sporting Kansas City II on Friday, May 14th.  Click HERE to view the full Switchbacks 2021 schedule.  

The Grand Home Opener at Weidner Field will take place in downtown Colorado Springs on May 21st at 7pm MT, as New Mexico United head to Southern Colorado to rekindle the Four Corners rivalry.  Season tickets are the only way to confirm your tickets today and they can be purchased HERE or call 719-368-8480 to ensure your spot as a new era begins in Colorado Springs history.

Vargish's View: Colorado Springs Switchbacks Up For Season Finale in Tulsa

The Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC conclude the 2020 USL Championship season on Saturday evening against FC Tulsa at ONEOK Field in Oklahoma.  The match will be broadcast live on ESPN+.  Saturday will be the first trip for the Switchbacks to ONEOK Field in Tulsa since a late April contest in 2019. 

On Wednesday evening the Switchbacks bid adieu to Weidner Field with a hard fought 0-0 draw against Group C leaders El Paso Locomotive FC.  In a play that typified the Switchbacks’ never-say-die spirit, center back Evarardo Rubio brilliantly kept El Paso off the scoresheet with an 81st minute goal-line clearance.  

The Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC conclude the 2020 USL Championship season on Saturday evening against FC Tulsa at ONEOK Field in Oklahoma.  The match will be broadcast live on ESPN+.  Saturday will be the first trip for the Switchbacks to ONEOK Field in Tulsa since a late April contest in 2019. 

On Wednesday evening the Switchbacks bid adieu to Weidner Field with a hard fought 0-0 draw against Group C leaders El Paso Locomotive FC.  In a play that typified the Switchbacks’ never-say-die spirit, center back Evarardo Rubio brilliantly kept El Paso off the scoresheet with an 81st minute goal-line clearance.  

“It was an impressive play – anytime you clear the ball off the line it’s an important moment in the game,” said Switchbacks Head Coach Alan Koch.  “I think it was just showing a sense of togetherness and doing whatever it takes to preserve the clean sheet.  The Switchbacks can pride themselves on having had a blue-collar approach so far in the existence of the club and I think we need to stay true to that, but what we’ve really tried to do this year is to build on that by playing attractive football at the same time.  We don’t want to lose sight of what the club has built and where we’ve got to, but the flip side is that we’re obviously trying to play an attractive brand of soccer now as we move toward the new stadium next year.” 

“I’ve been feeling good and comfortable at center back and I’ve been very proud of the team,” said Culiacán-born Rubio on Thursday morning.  “Saturday is a very important game because it’s the last game of the season and we need to finish well at Tulsa – that would give us a good feeling as a team.  It will be a difficult game because we don’t have a lot of time to recover, so it’s very important that when we train we have good recovery so that we can be at 100% for the game.” 

“It was an impressive play – anytime you clear the ball off the line it’s an important moment in the game,” said Switchbacks Head Coach Alan Koch.  “I think it was just showing a sense of togetherness and doing whatever it takes to preserve the clean sheet.  The Switchbacks can pride themselves on having had a blue-collar approach so far in the existence of the club and I think we need to stay true to that, but what we’ve really tried to do this year is to build on that by playing attractive football at the same time.  We don’t want to lose sight of what the club has built and where we’ve got to, but the flip side is that we’re obviously trying to play an attractive brand of soccer now as we move toward the new stadium next year.” 

“I’ve been feeling good and comfortable at center back and I’ve been very proud of the team,” said Culiacán-born Rubio on Thursday morning.  “Saturday is a very important game because it’s the last game of the season and we need to finish well at Tulsa – that would give us a good feeling as a team.  It will be a difficult game because we don’t have a lot of time to recover, so it’s very important that when we train we have good recovery so that we can be at 100% for the game.” 

With just one day of preparation before making their way to the Sooner State, Switchbacks players were focused on recovery the day after the draw with El Paso.  “All the work has been done in preseason, and all the other times where we’ve had only a week to prepare we always planned ahead and Coach already knows what we’re capable of doing,” said South African George Lebese.  “So right now, it’s about taking care of our bodies and being ready to go for Saturday, but we’ll be good.  As a new group that only started playing together this season, I think we did ok at times.  Obviously we have quality players and we expect to do much better, but we did ok – especially towards the end.  We kept on fighting, we kept on improving, and we’ve been playing good teams that are making the playoffs and even they say that we’ve played some good football.  I think we’ve built a really solid foundation.  Overall we are not very happy, but we are happy with the progress.  We’ve learned a lot about each other and about the game as well.  I don’t think any of us has ever been in this kind of situation considering how crazy the year has been.  It’s definitely been a challenge for all of us.  Personally for me it’s been a challenge too; having to meet all these guys and learn to play with them and make friends and obviously spend time with them all season, and they’ve become like family.  I’ve enjoyed the challenge personally and it’s been great to be with this team.  Hopefully I’m going to help to make the results better next year.”

Cuban striker Darío Suárez leads FC Tulsa in goals with 8.  Former Switchbacks forward Tobenna Uzo notched a brace in FC Tulsa’s 3-2 victory against Sooner State rivals Oklahoma City Energy FC on Wednesday night, including an 88th minute winner.  Uzo, who was introduced into Wednesday’s match in the 77th minute, scored just two minutes after coming on before notching the aforementioned winner just before the end of regular time. 

With just one day of preparation before making their way to the Sooner State, Switchbacks players were focused on recovery the day after the draw with El Paso.  “All the work has been done in preseason, and all the other times where we’ve had only a week to prepare we always planned ahead and Coach already knows what we’re capable of doing,” said South African George Lebese.  “So right now, it’s about taking care of our bodies and being ready to go for Saturday, but we’ll be good.  As a new group that only started playing together this season, I think we did ok at times.  Obviously we have quality players and we expect to do much better, but we did ok – especially towards the end.  We kept on fighting, we kept on improving, and we’ve been playing good teams that are making the playoffs and even they say that we’ve played some good football.  I think we’ve built a really solid foundation.  Overall we are not very happy, but we are happy with the progress.  We’ve learned a lot about each other and about the game as well.  I don’t think any of us has ever been in this kind of situation considering how crazy the year has been.  It’s definitely been a challenge for all of us.  Personally for me it’s been a challenge too; having to meet all these guys and learn to play with them and make friends and obviously spend time with them all season, and they’ve become like family.  I’ve enjoyed the challenge personally and it’s been great to be with this team.  Hopefully I’m going to help to make the results better next year.”

Cuban striker Darío Suárez leads FC Tulsa in goals with 8.  Former Switchbacks forward Tobenna Uzo notched a brace in FC Tulsa’s 3-2 victory against Sooner State rivals Oklahoma City Energy FC on Wednesday night, including an 88th minute winner.  Uzo, who was introduced into Wednesday’s match in the 77th minute, scored just two minutes after coming on before notching the aforementioned winner just before the end of regular time. 

“Already today I’ve watched Tulsa – their games earlier this season, and their game last night against Oklahoma City,” said Head Coach Koch on Thursday evening.  “And I’ve re-watched our game from last night.  Tulsa are a team that’s flying.  You can see that they’re incredibly positive and they’re doing whatever it takes to win.  They scored two late goals last night to win the game and they’re on the cusp of making the playoffs.  As important as the game was last night against El Paso for El Paso to try to win the division, Saturday’s game is going to be equally important for Tulsa.  These are the games we want to play in.  We want to play in meaningful games and I thought our guys embraced a meaningful game last night and we expect our group to embrace another big challenge on Saturday.”  

Michigander Sean Lewis has started all of FC Tulsa’s matches in goal during the 2020 USL Championship season, with the former Oakland University shot-stopper having kept 3 clean sheets.  

San Antonio FC have long been confirmed as runaway winners of Group D of the USL Championship, with FC Tulsa and Austin Bold FC fighting over a berth in the 2020 Playoffs.  With Austin’s 2-0 loss on Wednesday night to the Rio Grande Valley FC Toros, FC Tulsa know that a draw against the Switchbacks on Saturday will be enough for Michael Nsien’s team to clinch a playoff berth.  

“Tulsa is a club that’s obviously invested a lot – they have new ownership that really came in with additional resources and they’ve invested very wisely,” added Koch.  “I like the makeup of their team.  They’ve signed some talented players – there’s a few that we actually tried to get last year that chose to go to Tulsa, so I’m looking forward to seeing them and playing against them.  I have a lot of respect for what Tulsa have done as a club and we’re trying to do the exact same thing.” 

“Already today I’ve watched Tulsa – their games earlier this season, and their game last night against Oklahoma City,” said Head Coach Koch on Thursday evening.  “And I’ve re-watched our game from last night.  Tulsa are a team that’s flying.  You can see that they’re incredibly positive and they’re doing whatever it takes to win.  They scored two late goals last night to win the game and they’re on the cusp of making the playoffs.  As important as the game was last night against El Paso for El Paso to try to win the division, Saturday’s game is going to be equally important for Tulsa.  These are the games we want to play in.  We want to play in meaningful games and I thought our guys embraced a meaningful game last night and we expect our group to embrace another big challenge on Saturday.”  

Michigander Sean Lewis has started all of FC Tulsa’s matches in goal during the 2020 USL Championship season, with the former Oakland University shot-stopper having kept 3 clean sheets.  

San Antonio FC have long been confirmed as runaway winners of Group D of the USL Championship, with FC Tulsa and Austin Bold FC fighting over a berth in the 2020 Playoffs.  With Austin’s 2-0 loss on Wednesday night to the Rio Grande Valley FC Toros, FC Tulsa know that a draw against the Switchbacks on Saturday will be enough for Michael Nsien’s team to clinch a playoff berth.  

“Tulsa is a club that’s obviously invested a lot – they have new ownership that really came in with additional resources and they’ve invested very wisely,” added Koch.  “I like the makeup of their team.  They’ve signed some talented players – there’s a few that we actually tried to get last year that chose to go to Tulsa, so I’m looking forward to seeing them and playing against them.  I have a lot of respect for what Tulsa have done as a club and we’re trying to do the exact same thing.” 

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