History

Philadelphia Soccer History

Like father, like son

At 94 years old, Ray Lynch may be the oldest surviving Lighthouse Boys Club player. But his story isn’t just that of a Scotch-Irish immigrant playing the game of his father, it’s also part of the story of the movement of soccer in the US from its urban origins to the suburbs.

Philadelphia Soccer History

The founding of the Eastern Pennsylvania Soccer Association

A look at the founding of the EPSA, originally known as the Foot Ball Association of Eastern Pennsylvania and District, in April, 1913, six days after the founding of the United States of America Football Association, known today as the US Soccer Federation.

US Soccer History

Looking back at the 1979 NASL players strike

MLS players have been vocal about their willingness to strike if a new CBA is not reached. What can be learned from the 1979 strike by NASL players?

Local / Philadelphia Soccer History

A champion’s medal comes home

Last Friday, a 103-year-old championship medal won by a Scottish goalkeeper in Philadelphia returned to the city to the Southeastern Pennsylvania Soccer Hall of Fame. Here’s the story of the goalkeeper who won that medal and how it came back from Scotland to Philly.

History

New Year’s Day soccer in Philly, 1915

There were many noteworthy games over the New Year’s Day holiday one hundred years ago in Philadelphia.

Philadelphia Soccer History

The origins of soccer in Philadelphia, part 10: It’s only just begun

Our series on the origins of soccer in Philadelphia concludes.

Philadelphia Soccer History

Christmas soccer in Philly, 1914

The long tradition of holiday games continued for Philadelphia soccer teams in 1914.

Philadelphia Soccer History

The origins of soccer in Philadelphia, part 9: Manz wins the 1897 American Cup

After the quick demise of the Philadelphia Phillies pro soccer team in 1894, Philadelphia’s other pro team would return to the amateur ranks before going on to win Philadelphia’s first national soccer championship in 1897.

Philadelphia Soccer History

The origins of soccer in Philadelphia, part 8: Philly’s first pro clubs appear during troubled times for city’s first league

The decline of Philadelphia’s first organized league is followed by the appearance of the first professional soccer teams in the city.

Philadelphia Soccer History

The origins of soccer in Philadelphia, part 7: Philly’s first league continues to grow

Philadelphia’s first organized soccer league continued to grow in its second and third seasons with more teams, rising attendance, and intercity games.