New Waco club to join USL League Two in 2027

Ownership group with Central Texas roots looks to unite passionate soccer city

WACO, Texas & TAMPA, Fla. - The United Soccer League announced today that a new club based in Waco, Texas will compete in USL League Two beginning in 2027.

The club will tap into Waco’s soccer traditions that have developed across the area, from youth soccer to collegiate play and adult leagues. Waco Soccer Group, as the organization will be known until an official club brand is revealed, hopes to unite Waco and Central Texas through the sport by creating opportunities for players and being an active part of the community.

Beginning today, Waco Soccer Group is engaging fans with an online vote between four options to determine the club’s future name and logo. The voting will close on Sunday, November 29.

“Waco has a strong soccer community, and joining USL League Two gives us an opportunity to bring people together around a team of our own,” said Waco General Manager Paul Jobson. “We want young players to see what is possible, college players to keep pursuing their goals, and families to feel connected to the club. Our goal is to build something Waco can be proud of, on the field and in the community.”

With its inaugural season still coming into view, Waco Soccer Group has begun making connections in the community. The group established relationships with Central Texas youth soccer organizations and plans for soccer camps and clinics led by club staff, school visits, and appearances at local business and community events. Waco has also cultivated a relationship with Baylor University’s sports media and sports management programs to create future internship opportunities

“With how much passion for soccer we have seen across the country this year, communities like Waco who have oozed that enthusiasm and love for the game are perfect to build League Two clubs around,” said Joel Nash, USL SVP of Youth and Pre-Professional Properties. “With the expertise leading this club from the start, to the fans, players, and staff that will help it reach its potential, we’re excited to see what’s to come in Waco.”

An experienced front office group will lead the club, with figures who have been key to developing soccer in Waco and across Texas. Jobson currently serves as the Director of future USL Championship side Atletico Dallas’ youth program in Central Texas, after 14 seasons coaching the Baylor University women’s soccer program. Josh Terry, Co-Founder and Co-Owner of Waco Soccer Group, is a Baylor graduate who played on the university’s men’s club soccer team and then on adult leagues in Waco and brings investment experience in professional soccer. The group is rounded up by Michael Hitchcock, a veteran soccer executive who has worked with more than 100 teams, leagues, venues, and events worldwide, including multiple clubs in USL League Two.

“Waco soccer has always been a special part of my life,” said Terry, “from the adult leagues, the Baylor men’s club team, and pickup games that brought the local and Baylor soccer communities together. I’m excited to build on all of that with great partners like Paul and Hitch as we bring USL League Two to Waco.”

The Waco, Texas club will be a member of the Ranger Division in League Two’s Southern Conference.

To learn more about Waco Soccer Group, visit the club’s website, Instagram, X, and Facebook.