As we head into the final stages of the inaugural season for Saint Louis City SC I realized the true impact this season has had on me and my city.
On March 4, 2023 history was made. This was a game unlike any other for it was the first game in our new stadium, City Park. City’s game that night against Charlotte FC also happened to be one of the most enjoyable sporting events I have ever attended. As a season ticket holder, the feeling of being in that stadium surrounded by people who are all united and cheering for the same team is something so indescribable. So, whenever someone new walks through the gates of that stadium there is an instead rush that will take over. It’s a rush of excitement and pride for a team that has captured our hearts and minds.
They were able to do this because of the outstanding character that these players presented but also the devotion to greatness they expressed.
St. Louis City SC created such greatness by setting a record that will be tough to beat for any future expansion teams. The team started its season off with a 5-0 record and finished the regular season with the Number 1 position in the Western Conference.
Now the wonderful atmosphere at City Park and unbeatable record couldn’t be possible without the wonderful people who made this team possible. This team shows how we are all united even with our differences, whether those be differences of background or language. The talented woman who owns this team is a major factor of our differences being embraced in our community. Carolyn Kindle is the founding president has the first female majority-owned team in the MLS.
And now for the on-field talent. Our very own Captain, Goalie Roman Bürki, joined us from Switzerland where he experienced his barriers after losing his spot on his old team (Dortmund). He has created something remarkable out of the new opportunity he was presented–he is now in the running for Goalie of the Year. And this is all because of his spectacular saves throughout the season and his ability to lead his team with authority and unwavering determination
But we couldn’t have such a successful team or captain without the brilliant coach Bradley Carnell.
Coach Carnell is a former South African footballer who started as the assistant coach of the New York Red Bulls before leaping into the unknown with our very own expansion team. Carnell took the job willingly even though City was expected to finish next to last in their division but through his resilience and commitment to the success of the team he was able to push himself and the players into making something better than great. He made it his own which resulted in the team’s ability to take the top spot and claim the West.
As the chapter to a regular season with great accomplishments comes to a close, we now head into the new world of the playoffs.
This Sunday at 9 p.m., we will face off against a team that has been a force to be reckoned with–also known as our rivals Sporting Kansas City. But the team has proven themselves to be just as much of a force and so they will not waver in the pressure that may come with the arrival of this match.
This club has shaped who we are by uniting us in our hearts and the spirits. SKC will be a true battle for anyone that comes their way but we will defeat them as long as we have the strength of our unity and the brilliance of Coach Carnell. Then and only then will the City see the trophy waiting for them.