FC Naples Comes Back to the Field

NAPLES, Fla. — The lights are coming on this weekend at Paradise Sports Complex, and with them, a new season for FC Naples.

Saturday marks the home opener for Southwest Florida’s very own professional soccer team, and the excitement is already building.

Last season was nothing short of historic. In their first year as a club, FC Naples finished at the top of their conference and made a deep run in the national playoffs.

They quickly became one of the most talked-about expansion teams in the league, drawing packed crowds and turning game nights into community events. What started as a brand-new team in 2025 became a championship contender almost overnight.

Before fans ever take their seats, one of the first people at the complex and one of the last to leave is Tony Halterman. He is both the goalkeeper coach and one of the goalies for FC Naples. Halterman has trained all over the world before landing in Naples, and he says even at this level, the game comes down to communication.

“Between the keeper and the players, there constantly has to be communication. We plan off the field, but it is up to the keeper to always be ready for that next play.”

The roster itself reflects just how global the sport is. Players come from more than ten different countries, bringing different styles and experience to the field. For CEO Roberto Moreno, the goal this season is to build on what they started last year.

“We have some new faces we cannot wait to introduce,” Moreno said. “These guys have been training for eight weeks, getting ready for this big game on Saturday. They are excited to get back out there and play for the community again.”

The leadership on the sidelines is just as impressive. Head coach Matt Poland is one of the youngest professional coaches in the league. He said his players could not wait to return to the field after the offseason, and what stood out to him most was the fan support.

“The most impressive thing was how the fans packed the stadium,” Poland said. “As a young coach, I am growing with this team. Good mentorship and reflection are key. I come in every day asking ‘why’ so I can keep learning.”

From a championship season to a growing fanbase, FC Naples is proving that professional soccer has a home in Southwest Florida.

The home opener is on Saturday at 7 p.m.