Somerville United FC Launches as Region’s First Nonprofit Semi-pro Soccer Team

A nonprofit, semi-professional soccer team will debut in Somerville later this year.

Somerville United FC will make history by playing its first game this spring as part of the American Premier Soccer League (APSL). The APSL, which supports more than 200 teams nationwide, comprises dozens of conferences.

Somerville FC was founded by Robert Sifa Onjiko and his wife, Alesandra Grace Onjiko. The couple created the club to offer more soccer opportunities and boost the visibility of professional soccer in the Boston area.

“We are a nonprofit organization dedicated to expanding access to soccer in Somerville through community partnerships, easy access for players, and a focus on player development,” the founders said in a statement shared with the Patch of Somerville. “Our mission is to build a club that reflects the diversity and spirit of our city, while providing high-quality, competitive soccer opportunities.”

Sifa-Onjiko is serving as the club's CEO, while Onjiko will hold the position of executive director for the club.

Tryouts for the team will take place on Sunday, Jan. 18, at Conway Park, with about 58 players confirmed to attend as of last week, the Onjikos said in a statement shared with Boston.com. Players complete an online application and pay a $15 tryout fee to cover field rental costs.

Practice will begin in February, and the APSL season will start in March.

The Onjikos said they also intend to create a women's league for the club before the end of the year. When created, it would be the first of its type in the region.

According to the Patch of Somerville, home matches will be held at George Dilboy Memorial Stadium, a regional sports complex managed by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation.