We want to take this opportunity to thank each one of our members for trusting Cincinnati United SC with the responsibility to support your child’s development, on and off the field. We seek to honor that trust by continually striving to improve how we implement our mission, vision and values. To that end, we are pleased to launch the first edition of the Cincinnati United Newsletter which is intended to inform, engage and inspire you, our members and key stakeholders.
Each quarter, we will celebrate our members living the mission, vision or values through their actions, on and off the field. We will recognize the work of our coaches, volunteers and key partners, without whom, none of what we do would be possible. We will provide space for member submitted content in our “WeCU” section. We encourage each of you to get involved by sharing with us on our website page, “Tell Your Story”. Finally, we will recognize our Alumni further demonstrating that the values instilled during a player’s time at Cincinnati United are carried with them across their life.
Speaking of Alumni, we recently had the opportunity to celebrate our over 100 graduating seniors at our 1st Annual Cincinnati United Senior Banquet. It was an amazing night hosted at the Oasis Golf Course in Loveland with over 180 people in attendance. At the end of the event, there was a special moment involving a player taking a photo with a coach; the person taking that photo was the player’s father who had also played for that coach as young man. Such is our club's longevity and lasting impact each of us can have on one another.
With this in mind, we wish you a wonderful start to the spring season. May it be filled with challenges, triumphs, failures, successes, laughter, learning and, most of all, memories to last a lifetime.
Regards,
Blake Decker
Chief Executive Officer
Cincinnati United SC
Share your stories with us along the way by submitting on our “Tell Your Story” page.
We hope you enjoy reading our quarterly newsletter and we have worked hard to provide lots of information and updates. However if you want to pinpoint content that is relevant to you, use the links below to navigate the page:
Trying to keep up with the many successes of our members on and off the field? Look no further for a small sampling of the amazing things our members have been up to the last 3 months.
Congratulations to all of our players and coaches who received High School Honors in the last quarter.
Great to see so many Cincinnati United players recognized for their hard work and character.
While there were too many recipients to list all of them here, we do want to give a shoutout to our 5 All-Americans. Congratulations!
For a comprehensive list of all our HS Award winners, you can visit our HS Honors page.
Club staff attended a Soccer Learning University hosted by the Kentucky Youth Soccer Association in Lexington, Kentucky.
Coaches and directors from CU North, CU Southeast, CUP Boys (MLSNext), and CUP Girls (GA) participated in classroom and field sessions as well as a club-hosted working lunch with the inspiring US Soccer Coach Educator, Nathan Hunt.
A great way to foster camaraderie, share knowledge, and demonstrate a growth-mindset!
Thank you to everyone who contributed to the Presidents Day Winter Apparel Drive which was held in conjunction with CUP Girls Buckeye College Showcase at Wall2Wall in Mason.
This event enabled the club to give something back to those most in need. All donations were given to our partners at Hope House. A great example of players living the mission!
We would also like to acknowledge the key role played by Sarah Fitzstephens here. Not only did she coordinate the Apparel Drive, but she also repeatedly organizes community help opportunities for players, in addition to leading the Girls Academy Player Advisory Board at a national level.
Congratulations to CU Southeast coaches Cade Pantano and Brian Goff who both earned their USSF C License! The 16-week course involved weekly virtual meetings and assignments along with 2 “in-person” weekends consisting coaching and assessment.
Cade coaches CUSE 13G Barcelona...continued below...
...and Brian coaches CUSE 11G Arsenal, 12 G Arsenal and 13G Elite.
The club is very proud of these coaches dedicated to their own learning and development! They set the example for others to follow.
Congratulations to the CUP 07GA Team on winning their 3rd consecutive Girls Academy Champions Cup Title in Bradenton, Florida on March 12.
This marks the first time in league history any team has won in 3 consecutive years. The event is the culmination of an 18-month process whereby teams earn entry based upon their placement in the league table the previous season, must then advance from the group stage and, finally, navigate a 4-match single elimination path to lift the Cup.
Congratulations to the players and coaches!
Congratulations on clinching a wild card spot in the NL Pro League Playoff! Hard work, dedication and character have paid off, earning this group of players a ticket to the next round of their journey to USYS nationals. Watching these talented athletes grow & succeed is truly inspiring. Let's keep cheering them on as they continue to make waves in the NL Pro League!
Congratulations to former CUP Boy & CU North player Ben Damge who has been inducted into the 2024 Frank G. Ham Society of Character! He received this award during his time at the University of Kentucky on the Men's Soccer Team.
The club was proud to see CUP GA representing us as part of Black History Month in February!
CUP GA hosted Sockers FC of Chicago as a way to celebrate this significant event on the national calendar.
Thank you to everyone involved for Living The Mission.
The club would like to congratulate Hugh on officially becoming a licensed USSF Coach Educator. After completion of a 9 month process, Hugh is now able to organize and teach Grassroots Licensing courses which will be a huge benefit to both our coaches and players in the future. Not an easy task at all Hugh and we're proud to have you as our Technical Director. [You can read more about Hugh's ongoing education and his visit to Manchester City on behalf of the club here].
A shoutout to Sarah Chapman who served as our Photographer for the 1st Annual Cincinnati United Senior Banquet. She continues to exceed any expectations we have of our volunteers and this last quarter has been no different. Sarah always has a camera and is always sharing photos with parents and the club.
Congratulations to former CUP Boys player, Nico Montoya, on his selection to the upcoming U17 US Men’s National Team Camp in Florida, March 10-15. Nico played for the CUP MLS Next Program as a U14, after which, he transferred to the FC Dallas Academy where he currently plays. Well done Nico!
We appreciate every one of our members and families at Cincinnati United Soccer Club.
We try our best to include as many diverse stories of success, both on and off the field, but would like to ask for your help. If you would like to nominate an individual or a group for the next edition, please email content@cincinnatiunitedsc.com.
You can also visit the 'Tell Your Story' page to submit media.
Every season we will feature a Q and A with one of our fantastic staff members. In our inaugaral newsletter we will focus on Canniggia Johnson.
Name: Canniggia Johnson
Place of Birth: Spanish Town, Jamaica
Tell us about your life away from the field:
I have two boys, CJ and JJ. They both currently live in Jamaica. Family means the world to me. Nothing is more important! My mom is a huge part of my life. Aside from my mom, I have a very large family back home. I don't have any pets but I think I like dogs. My hobbies are playing soccer and playing FIFA (soccer game). During the daytime or before my team sessions I normally do private sessions. I run a small private business called neatfeet Soccer Academy. That’s where I work with kids closely. Working on fixing bad mechanics and repetitive technical work.
When did you start coaching?
I started coaching in 2016.
When did you join the club?
Also in 2016, my first coaching job was with the club!
Teams you coach this season?
CUSE 08G Elite, CUSE 10G Elite, CUSE 11B Elite & CUSE 13B Arsenal.
What inspired you to become a coach?
The game of soccer has always been one of the most important things to me. I wanted to take the love I have for the game to positively influence young athletes' lives and knew the best way to do so was through coaching.
What's your best memory on and off the field at the club?
My favorite memory in coaching by far is when my youngest son JJ came to America and I had the opportunity to coach him on my team where he won his first trophy. It’s a moment I’ll always cherish forever.
Each season we focus on a CUPGOAL, and this time around it is CHARACTER. How does that translate to the youth soccer world for you?
Character to me in youth soccer is how you show up every day for yourself and your teammates. Do you bring a good attitude and high effort, do you build your teammates up when their down, do you make good choices and lead by example? When these decisions are made day to day it builds and shows your character as both an athlete and person.
Funniest moment as a coach?
I had a player shoot a ball that wasn’t on the frame. As the ball went into the air it hit a bird flying over the field and went into the goal. We won that game 1-0. (Of course, the bird was just fine.)
Is there anyone on your coaching journey who you identify with as a mentor?
That would have to be my older brother Andre Sharpe. He was the one who got me into coaching. I watched him transition from a player to a coach and I knew immediately after a few seasons around him this is my calling. I love the way he interacted with the players and his sessions were always challenging and fun. Watching and being around him really influenced the direction in life I took.
What one piece of advice would you have to someone who is considering starting out on their coaching journey?
I would say be a sponge, always be ready to learn something new. The game keeps evolving and you can learn from everyone, both good and bad. Be yourself, and love what you do.
Who is your favorite soccer team apart from Cincinnati United 🙂?
Manchester United - the only right answer! And whichever team Ronaldo is playing for of course.
Apart from soccer, what other sports do you like to watch or play?
As a Jamaican the only two sports we ever chose between were football (soccer) and track and field. I felt everyone else was way faster than me so I chose soccer. My love is for this game and this game only...I really can't play anything else, but American football looks fun to watch.
Tell us a 'fun fact' about yourself that very few people know?
I really enjoy my alone time! Everyone knows me as a vibrant person but I really enjoy it when it’s just quiet....I think my own company is pretty dope lol!
We are grateful to all of our partners and in this edition we will focus on Standard Textile, a local company founded in 1940.
It is with immense gratitude and appreciation that we acknowledge the impact of this partnership and give our heartfelt thank you to the whole team at Standard Textile, especially, Bradley Fry (Chief Operating Officer &Chief Financial Officer) and Judy Sroufe (Vice President of Brand Marketing and Communications).
This partnership’s journey traces back to Brad’s connection as a CUP Boys parent and a meaningful collaboration in 2020 when we all needed all the hope we could get. In the thick of the Covid Pandemic, Standard Textile were kind enough to donate masks which allowed our players to get back as quickly and safely as possible.
Together in April 2023, we then embarked on a journey to create co-branded fan gear that not only resonated with our players, families, and employees but also contributed significantly to our club's mission. The collaboration resulted in the development of high-quality products, including a cozy blanket and a stylish pool towel, manufactured by Standard Textile and made exclusively available to our families. The proceeds of those sales went directly into a scholarship fund and has ensured that Cincinnati United families in need do not have to choose between everyday necessities and keeping their child in the sport and club they love.
Standard Textile's commitment to excellence and social responsibility has not only enhanced our club's offerings but also inspired a sense of pride and belonging among our members. As we look back on this partnership, we extend our sincere thanks to Brad Fry, Judy Sroufe, and the entire Standard Textile team for their unwavering support, generosity, and dedication to making a positive difference in our community.
Put simply, our club could not survive without the work of so many that goes unnoticed. In this edition we will focus on Frank Patterson.
In the bustling world of soccer clubs, where matches, tournaments, and leagues weave a complex tapestry of events, there are individuals who quietly shape the backbone of the organization. Frank Patterson is one such unsung hero whose dedication and contributions have been the driving force behind the success of Cincinnati United for decades.
Rick Brizzolaro, the club's Referee Assignor, reflects on his 20-year journey alongside Frank, dating back to the days of The Sycamore Arsenal. "Frank Patterson is the greatest asset the Club has that nobody knows about," says Rick. "His organizational skills to keep the real ‘backbone’ of the Club running smoothly is amazing."
Lisa Hausser echoes this sentiment, highlighting Frank's versatility and tireless commitment. "Frank has worn so many different hats with the club including coach, parent, board member, field assignor, field maintenance, and upkeep," she notes. "Don't underestimate the importance that Frank has played in the success of this club."
Jaimee Wilcox, acknowledging Frank's extensive history with the club, expresses admiration for his selfless nature. "He does not do it for the glory & wants no recognition," Jaimee remarks. "Many only know his name through email & would never realize last weekend's ref, ‘the guy on the mower,’ or the ‘(grumpy) man at Posey workday’ is the same person they are communicating with for league game and field scheduling."
Missy Ciricillo recalls moments of hardship where Frank's dedication shone brightest. "When the fields flooded, he was out there with giant pumps and hoses getting all the water pumped back into the creek," she recounts. "His dedication is like no other."
Frank's impact extends far beyond the soccer matches and tournaments. His involvement in the formation of the CUSL (Cincinnati United Soccer League), now the Cardinal Premier League, underscores his visionary leadership and commitment to the club's growth and development.
As the Referee Director for the Cardinal Premier League, Frank ensures that the games run smoothly, coaches are supported, and players have a safe and enjoyable experience on the field. His meticulous attention to detail and unwavering dedication have earned him the respect and gratitude of everyone he works with.
Despite his immense contributions, Frank remains humble and focused on the club's success above all else. In the words of Rick Brizzolaro, "I don't know how I'd function without him… Cincinnati United should be thrilled to have him."
Frank Patterson's legacy at Cincinnati United is not just measured in years of service but in the lasting impact he has had on countless players, coaches, and volunteers who have had the privilege to work alongside him. His dedication, selflessness, and unwavering commitment to excellence have set a standard of excellence that will continue to inspire future generations.
As we honor Frank Patterson as this edition's 'unsung hero,' we extend our heartfelt gratitude for his tireless efforts, his passion for the game, and his invaluable contributions to Cincinnati United. Thank you, Frank, for everything you have done and continue to do for the club.
Thank you to everyone who has submitted content to us recently. Where appropriate, your content will be shared via our website, social media and other online channels. Every newsletter will contain a selection of some of the SoccerSnaps you have shared with the club, just like the ones below.
Our leadership is determined to improve the connection and engagement we foster between the club and its countless Alumni. For our first edition of “Where are they now?”, it seems fitting that we should honor our next class of Alumni, the class of 2024. Recently, this group of seniors were recognized and celebrated during the 1st Annual Cincinnati United Senior Banquet. Appropriately, Garrett Szabo, an alumni and current coach, was invited to give the Keynote Address.
The Senior Banquet is an evening to celebrate each graduating player and their family. With over 60 players in attendance, it may seem as though playing all the way through high school is the norm in the United States. The statistics, however, tell a much different story. The reality is that these young men and women are in a very small group who can continue playing sport through their graduation from high school. This underscores the accomplishment and provides even more cause for recognition.
As a part of the Class of 2024, we have 18 players who have been with the club for 10+ years. Quite literally, these young men and women have grown up at and with Cincinnati United. We are both honored and humbled by the trust placed in us to support the development of these young people for the past decade or more. One of our coaches, Tony Ripberger, was kind enough to put together a graphic of his son Cobi to show the 'then and now' which we have included below along with other photos from the night, courtesy of Sarah Chapman. Also, please review the comprehensive list of our Class of 2024 graduates.
We aim to be more than a soccer club and hope that our Alumni are #ForeverUnited by the memories made, lessons learned, and friendships found. We also hope that, like Garrett Szabo, as circumstances allow, our Alumni maintain a tie to the club and the game. Our current players are our future coaches, referees, volunteers, parents and supporters.
We look forward to sharing more in June! If you want to share content with us at any time you can visit our 'Tell Your Story' page. Visit our News page to learn more about the club or catch up on any newsletter you missed.
One last thing...don't forget it is the Cincinnati United Soccer Club night at FC Cincinnati on April 6th. Club members can purchase reserved tickets via the link that was emailed to them recently.
