Under the Lights: NTX Legends (UPSL)
When was your club founded and have you always been in the UPSL? What convinced you to join the UPSL?
North Texas Legends FC was founded in March 2019. The reason we decided to join the UPSL was because of the growth and exposure the league was receiving during that crucial time. The reasonable entry fee also played a big role in the final decision.
Some clubs at your level have their own youth program, and some have a connection but don't run their own. Do you have a youth club? Do you feel it could be beneficial for clubs to have a relationship with one?
We do not have our own youth program, YET! We held tryouts last summer and had many interested prospects. However, we decided that it was not the time for us to make the jump into the soccer youth world just yet. Once the Covid issue blows over, we will work diligently in establishing our youth club. Do I feel youth clubs are beneficial for a semiprofessional team? Of course! Youth clubs set the foundation. We have taken an unconventional approach to this question by establishing our Division 1 adult club, and most recently announcing our U23 club.
By Spring 2021, we will be announcing a U18 expansion club as well. The ultimate plan is, by the Spring 2025 we will have youth clubs across all age groups, girls and boys.
Lots of clubs love to show off their swag; new kits, scarves, and stuff like that. Do you sell merch? With COVID-19 mostly shutting down competitions, are you feeling any financial effects from that?
Most definitely! We just revealed our latest home and away kits! The men and I are super excited about them! One of the things that make these kits so special is the fact that the players and fans played a big part in the design process. We will be announcing our spirit store via Instagram (@ntxlegendsfc) in the very near future. Covid has affected us financially, but we have hung in there and we will continue to provide a soccer platform for players across North Texas.
What is the mission of the club and where do you see NTX Legends in five years?
Our mission has always been to be champions, on and off the field. We would love to be more involved in our community, as the majority of players are Denton born and bred. Recently, it has been difficult to accomplish that goal, due to Covid, but once that passes, which it will, we will make that our top priority. We have big and ambitious goals for where we see this club in the next few years. Our vision is to establish a North Texas soccer organization of a higher caliber for men, women, and youth. We will accomplish this by not only being the leader in player selection, development, and exposure but also in the development of life skills.
You're currently participating in UPSL competition... and unbeaten! What safety measures are you and the players taking to ensure nobody gets sick and as long as everyone stays healthy, will the club continue to pursue friendlies and other tourneys into the summer?
The City of Denton has done a great job ensuring the health of the players. Prior to being granted access to their facilities, we had to come up with a detailed plan on how we will execute the safety protocols ordered by our governor. In short, we are requiring everyone to practice social distancing and to wear facemasks when not participating in any physical activities. As long as the leagues