Professional Soccer Returns to Connecticut with CT United FC

According to a press release from CT United FC, Connecticut’s newest professional men’s soccer team is getting ready to step into the spotlight as they prepare for their official Media Day on February 25 in Stamford.

The event hasn’t happened yet — but it marks a major moment for a team that’s bringing professional soccer back to the state in a big way.

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CT United FC was founded in 2024 and will begin play in MLS NEXT Pro during the 2026 season. They’re one of just a handful of independent clubs in the league, which serves as the professional development tier directly below Major League Soccer. Translation: this is real pro soccer, and it’s happening right here in Connecticut.

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Head Coach Shavar Thomas — a former UConn standout who went on to play in MLS and internationally — is leading the charge. There’s something cool about a guy with deep Connecticut roots coming back to help build this from the ground up.

The team plans to play matches at venues across the state during its inaugural season, essentially taking the club on the road to fans statewide while building its long-term footprint here in Connecticut.

And here’s something that really stands out: CT United operates the only free youth soccer academy for boys in the state. That’s a big deal. No pay-to-play barrier. Just opportunity.

Yes, Media Day will include the reveal of the 2026 kit and more details about the inaugural season. But the bigger story is this — Connecticut is getting a legitimate professional soccer club, built with local leadership, local ties, and real ambition.

This isn’t just a press event. It’s the beginning of something.