A newly formed group plans to bring a United Soccer League championship team to Buffalo.
Western New York native Peter Marlette Jr. announced Thursday the formation of Buffalo Pro Soccer Group, with plans to establish a professional soccer club in Buffalo by 2026 through an exclusive partnership with USL.
As the organization's president, Marlette will work with club owners, elected officials, business partners, community leaders and others to make the club a reality in Western New York, according to the announcement.
“Given soccer's incredible growth trajectory in the United States, it's time for Buffalo, one of America's most passionate sports cities, to join the movement with its own professional club,” Marlette said. Ta. “This club will represent the hard work, resilience, innovation and pride that our community is known for. I am fully committed to building a club that wins USL Championships. , we look forward to working with everyone who believes in Buffalo. Together, we will write a new chapter in our city's vibrant civic and sporting history. ”
“These are exciting times for sports in Buffalo. I would like to commend Peter Marlette, president of Buffalo Pro Soccer, for his plans to bring United Soccer League professional soccer to our city. ” said Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown. “Buffalo is known around the world as a great sports city, and this will only further enhance our reputation. We wish Buffalo Pro Soccer the best of luck.”
Marlette is a Buffalo native and played five seasons with FC Buffalo. He served as the general manager of 2021 USL League 1 champion Union Omaha for the past three years. Marlette previously worked for FC Dallas in Major League Soccer.
The 2024 USL Championship will feature 24 men's professional teams competing in a 34-game regular season from March to October. It is the only league sanctioned by U.S. Soccer Division II. His USL Championship teams average close to 6,000 fans per game, and he regularly draws over 10,000 fans for some teams.
