Bellevue Athletic FC explained

Clubname:Bellevue Athletic FC
Founded:2022
Stadium:Bellevue College
League:United Premier Soccer League
Owner:Excelerate LLC

Bellevue Athletic FC is a semi-professional soccer club based in Bellevue, Washington. Founded in 2022, the club competes in the UPSL.

History

Bellevue Athletic FC was established in 2022 with the goal of providing opportunities for athletes in the Seattle area. Since its founding, the club has played in the UPSL. In 2024, it became a player development partner for Central Valley Fuego FC.[1] BAFC has also entered U.S. Open Cup qualifying their first two years of operations.

Club Structure

Bellevue Athletic FC is owned by Excelerate LLC. It is operated by the Director of Operations Laura Rivera, and the Sporting Director Anastacio Rivera.[2] The club consists of 3 teams that play in varying semi-professional leagues.

Men's First Team

The Men's first team is coached by Head Coach Mike Mata, and Assistant Coaches Brian Burkholder, Ike Onyeador and Anastacio Rivera.[2] They have played in the Premier Division of United Premier Soccer League since Spring 2022, finishing in playoff spots 3 of the 5 seasons. In Spring 2024, the club won the PNW WA division playoffs and made a run to the UPSL National Round of 16.

Men's Second Team (B2)

B2, the men's second team program, is operated by Program Director Tao Shen.[2] They have played in the second division of the Cascadia Premier League since Summer of 2023. Previously, they played in Seattle RATS league, and continue to in Fall seasons.

Women's First Team

Formed in 2024, the BAFC Women were the first women's team in BAFC's history and play in the Cascadia Premier League. Women's Program Director Val Seid will be leading the charge along with help from the clubs back office.[2]

Stadium & Facilities

Bellevue Athletic FC plays its home matches at Bellevue College, located in Bellevue, Washington. The stadium has a seating capacity of 500 and has an artificial turf field and LED lighting.[3] The club also utilizes Robinswood Park and Wilburton Hill Park for training sessions and other activities.

Notes and References

  1. Web site: Bellevue Athletic FC Becomes a Fuego Affiliate Partner . 2024-03-07 . Central Valley Fuego FC . en-US.
  2. Web site: FC . Bellevue Athletic . 2023-09-27 . Technical Staff Bellevue Athletic FC . 2024-03-07 . en-US.
  3. Web site: Jeremy Eggers :: Athletics Department @ Bellevue College . 2024-03-07 . Bellevue College . en-US.