Recently Re-Branded Club Aims to Begin Pro Play in 2022

CHICAGO (September 16, 2021) – The National Independent Soccer Association (NISA) has enthusiastically approved the Valley United FC application to begin play in spring of 2022. Valley United is a Phoenix-based club making the jump to the pro level. They currently play in United Premier Soccer League’s Southwest Conference, Arizona Division.

“Valley United FC is an organization that fully believes in the merit-based approach to club development that NISA does,” says NISA Commissioner John Prutch. “With the amount of talent and support found in Arizona, Valley United is a battle-tested addition to our presence in the American Southwest.”

Founded in 2020, the club has earned multiple UPSL Arizona Division championships in its short existence. It also participated in the 2021 NISA Independent Cup alongside NISA pro club California United Strikers FC and strong amateur club FC Arizona.

“We as an organization are Proud and excited to be participating in such a prestigious league as NISA,” says Technical Director and Head Coach Carlos Adrian Gaitan. “We look forward to ways and avenues for us to create opportunities for our players to connect with our community here in Phoenix. We will continue to work hard to grow our club fan base.”

As equity, diversity and inclusion being a priority in how the league operates, Valley United will represent NISA’s first LatinX-owned club. Along with Coach Gaitan, the front office includes CEO Troy Pearce, Vice President Marcelo Piana, Sporting Director Yuvall Raichman, General Manager Roman Rubio, and Director of Communications and Community Outreach Mary D. Rivera.

The club will play at Grand Canyon University Stadium, which has a capacity of 6,000.

About Valley United FC

Valley United FC is a professional soccer club located in suburban Phoenix that will start professional play in the National Independent Soccer Association 2022 season. Founded in 2020, the club has a heritage of success both in earning championships and in developing talent. For more information, visit ValleyUnitedFC.com, and follow Valley United on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and Linked at @ValleyUnitedAZ.