Forward Madison FC Overview
Forward Madison FC is a professional soccer team based in Madison, Wisconsin. Founded on May 17, 2018, the club competes in USL League One, the third division of the United States soccer league system. The team plays its home matches at Breese Stevens Field, a historic stadium in Madison with a capacity of 5,000. Known for its distinctive sky blue, white, and pink colors inspired by the Madison city flag, Forward Madison FC has cultivated a passionate local and international fanbase. The club is owned by Big Top Events and maintains affiliations with Major League Soccer teams Minnesota United FC and Chicago Fire FC.
Founding and Organizational Origins
Forward Madison FC was established by Big Top Events, a company that also owns the Madison Mallards and has operated Breese Stevens Field since 2015. The initiative to bring professional soccer to Madison began in early 2018, with plans to invest $2 million in renovating Breese Stevens Field to accommodate the new team. The Madison City Council approved a ten-year contract with Big Top Events in May 2018, which included $1.3 million in city funding for stadium improvements and an expansion of seating capacity to 5,000. The club was officially announced as a founding member of USL League One on May 17, 2018, becoming the first Midwestern team in the league and the only outdoor professional soccer team in Wisconsin. Peter Wilt, known for founding several soccer clubs, was appointed managing director to lead the team’s launch.
Growth Into USL League One Competition
Forward Madison FC began competitive play in the inaugural USL League One season in 2019. The club engaged fans early with a naming contest, ultimately selecting Forward Madison FC, a name reflecting Wisconsin’s state motto. The team appointed Daryl Shore as its first head coach and technical director in September 2018. The club quickly established affiliations with MLS teams, signing a one-year partnership with Minnesota United FC in 2018 and later with Chicago Fire FC in 2020. These alliances helped strengthen the club’s competitive and developmental programs. The team’s early roster signings and leadership hires laid the foundation for its competitive presence in the league.
Forward Madison FC Competitive Journey
Since its inception, Forward Madison FC has steadily developed its competitive profile in USL League One. The club has focused on building a strong team culture, engaging supporters, and enhancing its on-field performance through strategic coaching and player development.
Early Seasons and Development (2019–2020)
Forward Madison FC’s inaugural 2019 season was marked by strong fan support, with an average home attendance of 4,292, the highest in USL League One that year. The team’s distinctive branding and community engagement contributed to its early popularity. The club’s first head coach, Daryl Shore, helped establish the team’s playing style and competitive approach. The 2020 season was disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic, leading the club to temporarily relocate home games to Hart Park in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin. Despite challenges, the team continued to build its roster and maintain competitive efforts.
Breakthrough in USL League One (2021–2023)
In December 2020, Carl Craig was named head coach and technical director, bringing experience from his previous role with Minnesota United. However, after a ninth-place finish in 2021, Craig was dismissed. Matt Glaeser was hired ahead of the 2022 season and confirmed to continue as head coach into 2023. Under Glaeser’s leadership, the club has focused on refining its tactical approach and strengthening its squad. The team has continued to develop its identity within the league, balancing competitive ambitions with community engagement and fan involvement.
Modern Program and Current Direction (2024–Present)
Forward Madison FC remains owned by Big Top Events and continues to play at the renovated Breese Stevens Field. The club benefits from a strong digital presence and unique branding, including its flamingo mascot and vibrant team colors. The current head coach, Matt Glaeser, leads the team with an emphasis on competitive growth and player development. The club’s infrastructure and fanbase have expanded, with a focus on long-term sustainability and success in USL League One.
Philosophy and Competitive Strengths
Forward Madison FC is known for its community-oriented approach and distinctive branding that resonates with fans locally and globally. The team emphasizes tactical discipline, player development, and fan engagement, creating a strong home-field atmosphere at Breese Stevens Field. Its competitive strengths include a committed coaching staff and a supportive fanbase that drives the team’s performance.
Key Milestones and Major Moments
Key moments in Forward Madison FC’s history include its founding as the first Midwestern team in USL League One, the successful renovation and expansion of Breese Stevens Field, and the establishment of affiliations with MLS clubs Minnesota United FC and Chicago Fire FC. The club’s innovative jersey designs and strong merchandise sales have also been notable, contributing significantly to its revenue and brand identity.
Forward Madison FC Achievements and Results
While Forward Madison FC has yet to secure league championships or cup titles, the club has achieved significant milestones in attendance, fan engagement, and brand development. The team’s inaugural season attendance led USL League One, and its unique marketing efforts have garnered national attention.
USL League One Achievements
Forward Madison FC has competed consistently in USL League One since 2019. The club’s first season set attendance records within the league, reflecting strong community support. While the team has not yet won league titles, it has established itself as a competitive presence with ambitions for future success.
Conference Achievements
As USL League One does not operate with conferences, this section is not applicable.
Divisional Achievements
USL League One does not have divisional play, so this section is not applicable.
Series Achievements
Forward Madison FC’s participation in USL League One since its inception marks its primary competitive achievement. The club continues to build its program with the goal of achieving playoff success and eventual championships in the series.
