New York International FC recently earned promotion to Division 1 of the Cosmopolitan Soccer League (CSL), a regional semi-pro league in New York. The CSL features historic clubs such as New York Pancyprian-Freedoms and Hoboken FC 1912, providing a platform for local teams to compete and potentially move up the divisions. The promotion of New York International highlights the opportunities for growth and progress at lower levels of the game in the U.S., despite the closed-off nature of top professional leagues like Major League Soccer.
The success of New York International can be attributed to their attacking style of play, scoring 70 goals in 18 games to secure the Division 2 title. Manager Nick Platt emphasizes the team’s focus on high press and possession-based football, while striving to strike a balance between attacking and defensive play. The club now has the chance to further their progress by aiming for promotion to the Eastern Premier Soccer League (EPSL), which covers several states on the East Coast. This potential move showcases the existing pyramid structure in some regions of American soccer, hinting at the possibility of promotion and relegation systems in the future.
New York International’s season was marked by the slogan “Win For Davide,” honoring former player Davide Giri who tragically passed away in 2021. The club has organized the annual 5k For Davide event to remember Davide’s legacy and raise funds for the EV Loves NYC soup kitchen. Participants from around the world and different states will contribute to the event, with all proceeds going towards supporting the community through volunteering efforts. The club’s commitment to giving back and honoring Davide’s memory underscores the importance of community engagement and solidarity within the soccer club.
The 5k For Davide event will see a significant turnout from players and supporters of New York International, showcasing the club’s strong community ties and dedication to charitable initiatives. Club representatives regularly volunteer at EV Loves NYC, demonstrating their commitment to making a positive impact beyond the soccer field. The event serves as a celebration of New York International’s promotion and a tribute to Davide Giri, who played a pivotal role in building the club’s culture and legacy. The community aspect of the club has been instrumental in uniting players, coaches, and supporters in honoring Davide’s memory and supporting local causes.
As New York International looks ahead to the next phase of their journey in the CSL and potentially the EPSL, they remain focused on maintaining their commitment to community engagement and sustainable growth. The club’s success on the field is complemented by their impact off the field, with initiatives like the 5k For Davide serving as a testament to their values and ethos. Through their dedication to giving back and honoring Davide’s legacy, New York International exemplifies the power of soccer to bring people together and make a meaningful difference in their community. The upcoming 5k event will be a moment of reflection, celebration, and unity for the club and its supporters as they continue to strive for excellence both on and off the pitch.
