Having observed the incredible inaugural season for FC Naples from a prime vantage point, it is safe to say that the fledgling USL League One team overachieved in every possible metric in 2025.
From the on-field success to the in-stands support, FC Naples was a dream come true from start to finish in its first year. From the sellout crowd for the season opener on March 8 against Chattanooga to the thrilling playoff shootout victory against Union Omaha on Nov. 1, FC Naples was quite simply one of the best stories in all of the United Soccer League.
Midfielder Kevin O’Connor — at left above, playing with midfielder Chris Heckenberg — and goaltender Lalo Delgado are among the more notable FC Naples second-year players retained by coach Matt Poland. Photo courtesy FC Naples