In a lively reflection on San Diego’s sporting history, Mikey Varas, coach of the first-year soccer club San Diego FC, humorously acknowledged the city’s struggles with major professional sports championships. “I know that the Clippers, uh, potentially won something a long, long time ago,” he noted, before admitting his lack of knowledge about any local titles. While Varas mistakenly referenced the Clippers, he correctly highlighted San Diego’s lean trophy cabinet: a solitary championship for the Chargers in 1964 and no titles for the Padres, despite promising seasons.
As San Diego FC gears up to face the Portland Timbers in the first match of their playoff series on Sunday, the stakes could not be higher. A deep run in Major League Soccer’s postseason, potentially culminating in a win at the MLS Cup final on December 6, could capture the hearts of both dedicated soccer fans and casual sports enthusiasts alike. In a city where sports excitement often feels elusive, a successful playoff journey would undoubtedly draw in a wave of new supporters, eager to rally around a promising local team.
Historically, while the San Diego Sockers enjoyed success with multiple indoor championships in the past, higher-profile leagues often overshadowed these achievements. The hope is that San Diego FC can resonate with the community in a different way. With a unique and aggressive style of play characterized by risk-taking and creativity, the team has already made an impression in their inaugural season. Under the direction of Varas, general manager Tyler Heaps, and president Tom Penn, San Diego FC has developed a cohesive and tenacious squad.
The team’s impressive stats speak volumes: they scored 64 goals during the regular season, ranking fifth among all MLS teams, and also led in assists and possession. Players like Luca de la Torre, who brings a local connection despite his years spent in soccer, emphasize the team’s commitment to an entertaining style, desiring to focus on creating offense rather than merely countering the opponent.
As San Diego FC aims to secure five more wins for a shot at the championship, their journey is one to watch—an opportunity to change the narrative of San Diego sports and potentially bring a much-needed trophy to the city’s empty case. With even local celebrities, such as Padres’ star Manny Machado, keeping a keen eye on the team’s progress, the excitement surrounding San Diego FC is palpable. The prospect of lifting the MLS Cup could not only transform the team’s legacy but also foster a renewed sports culture in San Diego, sparking pride within its community.