CLEVELAND, Ohio – A USL 2 men’s soccer franchise will launch in Lorain County in 2026, playing at ForeFront Field, with a women’s team planned for 2027.

Backed by a consortium including local soccer figures and the Lake Erie Crushers’ ownership, the USL2 team’s identity is being shaped by a community-driven naming contest. The franchise aims to be an affordable entertainment option and operate on a financially viable model with manageable USL2 franchise fees, organizers said.

The team is leveraging the growing popularity of soccer in the United States. Ownership has a multi-faceted strategy for community integration, financial stability and on-field leadership.

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