LUDLOW, MA-The U.S. Soccer Federation’s Adult Council proudly announces the launch of the Brandi Chastain Cup, the country’s premier elite women’s amateur championship. This groundbreaking event, endorsed by legendary U.S. Women’s National Team star Brandi Chastain, aims to unite and elevate women’s soccer by bringing together the top amateur teams  from across the country under a single competition.

The top 2 pre-Professional women’s leagues in the United States will square off in a match sanctioned by US Soccer. The game will feature the New England Mutiny of United Women’s Soccer (UWS) and the Richmond Ivy of the USL W-league. The match is scheduled for Thursday June 5 at City Stadium in Richmond, VA. The winner of the match will face an opponent to be determined on a date and at a venue yet to be established.

The New England Mutiny are the defending Eastern Conference Champions and UWS National Finalist. The Mutiny will begin its 25th season in 2025, making them one of the oldest women’s teams in U.S. history. Signature moments for the club, include a narrow 4-3 defeat to the Chinese Women’s National Team in a pre-Olympic exhibition in 2004. In 2012, Mutiny defeated the Boston Breakers in league play 2-1, thereby making them the only amateur team to ever defeat a professional team in a competition.

“As we embark on our 25th season, I have seen women’s soccer come a long way to become part of the fabric of many communities. We are excited to represent United Women’s Soccer (UWS) in this groundbreaking event,” said Mutiny GM Joe Ferrara.

Brandi Chastain, a two-time FIFA Women’s World Cup Champion, two-time Olympic gold medalist and a co-founder of Bay FC in the NWSL is a passionate advocate for the game’s development at all levels. She expressed her enthusiasm for the competition.

“Women’s soccer in the United States has an incredible foundation built by generations of talented athletes. The Brandi Chastain Cup will provide an essential platform to showcase the country’s top amateur players while further uniting the women’s soccer landscape. I’m honored to support this initiative and can’t wait to see the talent on display”, stated Chastain.

Chastain’s deep connection to the women’s game extends beyond her legendary international career, as she has been an active mentor and advocate within the adult amateur soccer ecosystem. The competition will serve as a bridge between the amateur and professional levels, creating further opportunities for elite players to advance in their careers.

Chastain is no stranger to western Mass, the home of the New England Mutiny, as she  played in the National Championship match hosted by the Mutiny when playing for the California Storm.

“We are honored to have United Women’s Soccer represented in this first ever Inter-League Elite Competition. The New England Mutiny has a storied history in women’s soccer and along with all of our teams in UWS we are committed to advancing the women’s game in the United States.” stated UWS League Founder Roberto Aguas.

Lancaster, PA – United Women’s Soccer (UWS) is proud to announce the newest addition to its Eastern Conference, welcoming Lancaster FC to the league for the 2025 Summer of Soccer. The inclusion of Lancaster FC marks another step forward in UWS’s mission to provide top-tier playing opportunities for female athletes across the country.

Founded in 2022, Lancaster FC has quickly established itself as a club built on a foundation of professionalism, player development, and community engagement. With a clear pathway from recreational soccer through academy and professional play, the club has become a beacon of opportunity for aspiring athletes in Pennsylvania.

The recent acquisition by Copa Holdings LLC, a global soccer enterprise operating across North America, South America, and Europe, further elevates Lancaster FC’s commitment to providing elite coaching, international scouting opportunities, and access to top-tier competitions worldwide.

“We’re thrilled to bring UWS to Lancaster, offering top-tier soccer for the best female talent in Pennsylvania. We believe Lancaster can develop future national team players through high-level competition in the UWS," stated Lancaster President Oliver Templeton.

“Adding Lancaster FC to UWS is a testament to the growth of women’s soccer and the continued rise of elite clubs across the country. Lancaster FC’s dedication to player development and community impact aligns perfectly with our league’s mission. We’re excited to see them thrive in the Eastern Conference and provide opportunities for female athletes to compete at the highest levels," added League Commissioner Joe Ferrara.

With the addition of Lancaster FC, UWS strengthens its footprint in Pennsylvania, providing a platform for collegiate and post-collegiate players to compete against some of the best talent in the country. The club’s commitment to developing players on and off the field will undoubtedly make a positive impact in the community and the league.

“Lancaster FC’s entry into the UWS is a significant milestone in our mission to elevate the women’s game and provide top-tier opportunities for players to develop and compete at the highest levels,” said Roberto Aguas, CEO of Copa Holdings & Lancaster FC.

“At Copa Holdings, we are committed to building a pathway for talent to thrive, and this expansion reflects our dedication to growing the game both on and off the field for Lancaster FC. We look forward to bringing our vision and passion to the UWS and making an impact in the league," added Aguas.

For more information on Lancaster FC and the upcoming 2025 UWS season, visit lancasterfc.com or follow the club on social media at @LancasterFC.

About United Women’s Soccer

United Women’s Soccer (UWS) is a national pro-am league that provides high-level competition for college players, aspiring professionals, and international talent. UWS is dedicated to advancing women’s soccer by providing a platform for athletes to compete and thrive both on and off the field.

About Lancaster FC

Founded in 2022, Lancaster FC is a premier soccer club committed to developing top-tier talent and fostering a love of the game within the Lancaster community. Through its partnership with Copa Holdings LLC, Lancaster FC provides players with a comprehensive pathway to collegiate, professional, and international opportunities.