December 29, 2024 – Annapolis, Maryland –
Annapolis Blues FC has captured the attention of the soccer world in record time. Founded in 2022, the club has quickly risen to prominence, setting attendance records and becoming a focal point of soccer enthusiasm in Maryland. Now, they are preparing to take an even bigger stage as they join USL League Two for the 2025 season, a move that underscores their ambition and solidifies their growing legacy.
The Blues’ journey began with an idea: to create a soccer club that not only excelled on the field but also united the Annapolis community. That vision became a reality in 2023 when the club’s inaugural season shattered expectations. Over 8,300 fans packed Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium for their first regular-season home game, setting a National Premier Soccer League (NPSL) attendance record. It wasn’t a one-time event—week after week, the stands were filled with passionate supporters, transforming each match into a celebration of the city’s love for soccer. With such an impressive start, the decision to move to USL League Two was a natural progression. Known as one of North America’s premier pre-professional leagues, USL League Two provides a pathway for players aspiring to reach the professional level. It is a league where top talent competes, scouts watch closely, and clubs make their mark. For Annapolis Blues FC, the move represents not just a step up in competition but a validation of their vision and efforts.
Michael Hitchcock, the club’s Owner and Managing Partner, sees the transition as a pivotal moment for the team. “This is about more than just competing,” Hitchcock said. “It’s about raising the profile of soccer in Annapolis and providing pathways for our players to achieve their dreams. And for our fans, it’s about giving them the excitement they deserve.” One of the most anticipated elements of this move is the Maryland Derby, a new rivalry with Christos FC. Scheduled to take place at the iconic Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium, the Derby promises to be a thrilling contest that will captivate soccer fans across the region. With its 34,000-seat capacity, the stadium has already become a fortress for the Blues, and the Derby is expected to elevate the game-day atmosphere to unprecedented levels. The Blues are also expanding their footprint in another significant way: by launching a women’s team in the USL W League for the 2025 season. This addition reflects the club’s commitment to inclusivity and its desire to provide opportunities for athletes of all backgrounds. By competing in both USL League Two and the USL W League, Annapolis Blues FC is establishing itself as a comprehensive soccer organization poised for long-term success.
“This is a milestone for us,” said Fred Matthes, the team’s General Manager. “We’ve worked to build something special here, and moving to USL League Two is the next step in that journey. Our fans and our community have been with us every step of the way, and we can’t wait to show them what’s next.” The enthusiasm for the Blues’ move is shared by league officials. Joel Nash, Senior Vice President of Youth and Pre-Professional Properties at USL, praised the club’s ability to energize its community and attract fans in record numbers. “Annapolis Blues are synonymous with soccer in the Chesapeake region,” Nash said. “We’re incredibly excited to have them on board, and we know fans will pack the stands to see them challenge other clubs on this stage.”
At the heart of this move is the unwavering support of the Annapolis community. The fans have been instrumental in the club’s journey, turning out in droves to cheer on their team and creating a game-day experience that rivals professional soccer. From the chants in the stands to the vibrant sea of scarves and banners, the Blues’ supporters are the lifeblood of the club. For Annapolis, this move isn’t just about climbing the ladder of pre-professional soccer—it’s about making a statement. It’s a declaration that the city is ready to take its place on the soccer map and that the Blues are determined to lead the charge.
As the 2025 season approaches, anticipation is building. Season tickets are already on sale, and fans are gearing up for what promises to be a historic year. Annapolis Blues FC has shown that they are more than just a soccer team—they are a movement, a source of pride for their city, and a beacon for the future of the sport. “This isn’t just a new chapter for the Blues,” Hitchcock said. “It’s a new era for soccer in Annapolis. And we’re just getting started.”
