MOUNT VERNON, N.Y. & TAMPA, Fla. – The United Soccer League (USL) today announced that Westchester County, N.Y. has been granted the rights to a USL League One franchise. Westchester Soccer Club plans to kick off in 2025 and will host its home matches at the newly renovated Stadium at Memorial Field in Mount Vernon, N.Y. Uniting the passionate soccer community across Westchester County, Rockland County, Connecticut and northern New Jersey, Westchester SC aims to become the cornerstone of the community’s already thriving soccer ecosystem.

Solidifying the club's commitment to nurturing local talent, Westchester SC will integrate the New York Premier FC academy into its operations, which will later be rebranded to align with Westchester SC's permanent brand. Simon Baines, owner of New York Premier FC, who played and coached within professional and semi-professional clubs in England and South Africa, will lead the academy and serve as the sporting director for Westchester SC.

"We are excited to bring professional soccer to Westchester County and create a lasting legacy for the community. Our inclusion in USL League One is just the beginning,” said Mitch Baruchowitz, leader of the Westchester SC ownership group and majority shareholder in Profluence. “We are dedicated to developing top-tier talent right here in Westchester County, ensuring a bright future for soccer in our region and a direct pipeline for our young players to rise to the professional level."

Along with Baruchowitz and Baines, the club's leadership includes Danny Dekker, majority owner of the New York Dutch Lions semi-professional club team. Westchester SC is also backed by Profluence, an emerging sports, technology and media fund co-founded by Baruchowitz.

"Westchester County represents a significant addition to our league,” said USL League One President Lee O’Neill. “Westchester SC’s planned commitment to its community and player development is exciting, and we’re eager to see the impact the club will make both on and off the field."

Westchester SC will be dedicated to celebrating the region's profound love for soccer through exciting, family-friendly events that emphasize fun and community engagement. The club plans to host community events, soccer clinics and fan meet-ups, all aimed at stoking the local passion for soccer while showcasing the exceptional talent in the area.

Fans can anticipate the unveiling of the club’s branding and kit in June. This will coincide with a major kickoff event, where season tickets will officially go on sale, marking a milestone moment for the club and its supporters.

Westchester SC is committed to becoming a cornerstone of the local sports landscape. By fostering a vibrant soccer culture and providing a pathway for young athletes through its academy, Westchester SC aims to ascend to the highest levels of competition and community engagement.

For more information, visit Westchester SC's website and follow the club on social media on X (Twitter) and Instagram.