NYC Football Club II Debuts New Pitch & Inaugural Game at Icahn Stadium

September 6, 2024 – The NYC Football Club II team made an exciting debut on Randall’s Island Park Alliance’s Kentucky bluegrass soccer pitch at Icahn Stadium on Friday, September 6, in a match against Atlanta United FC II. The game was a nail-biter, with both teams playing an intense 90 minutes, only for Atlanta United FC II to clinch the victory in a shootout.

A New Era for Icahn Stadium
Before the action unfolded on the field, a ribbon-cutting ceremony marked the grand unveiling of the newly constructed pitch, with community members, local leaders, and NYCFC representatives in attendance. The state-of-the-art field is a major enhancement to the stadium, reinforcing Icahn Stadium’s reputation as one of New York City’s premier sports venues.

“It’s truly a transformative moment for RIPA, the park, and the local community who will benefit from this incredible resource,” said Nancy Neff, Randall’s Island Park Alliance’s Co-Chair. “The matches played here will excite and inspire New Yorkers, and we look forward to working together to nurture the next generation of soccer (football) champions from our local neighborhoods. On behalf of RIPA, New York City, and our community, thank you to NYCFC for this amazing opportunity!”

The event was a celebration of not only soccer but also the community’s ongoing commitment to promoting youth sports and accessible recreational spaces. The Alliance is proud to welcome professional soccer to the park with NYCFC II’s debut at Icahn Stadium. This partnership with NYCFC II represents a new era for the park, and we look forward to hosting many more thrilling matches and events in the future.