LIONSBRIDGE FC
Community-Driven Soccer & Family Fun on the Virginia Peninsula
LIONSBRIDGE FALLS TO CHRISTOS IN 94TH MINUTE
BALTIMORE, Md. – Lionsbridge FC fell 2-1 to Christos FC on Saturday night at Retriever Soccer Stadium in Baltimore.
Lionsbridge held the ball in its own offensive zone for the better part of the first 15 minutes, with both Christian Hatley and Cristian Ortiz getting shots off. Christos got on the board first, though, with a goal in the 17th minute to go ahead 1-0.
Christos was assessed a yellow card in the 22nd minute, but Lionsbridge could not capitalize on the ensuing free kick. Josh Baker laced in a corner kick to Timo Boomkens in the 25th minute, but the head from Boomkens was blocked. Baker had another shot saved in the 37th minute, and Lionsbridge could not manage to get a goal before the half was over.
In the 48th and 49th minutes, Lopez had two shots barely missed the net, but he was able to connect with Baker for a Lionsbridge goal in the 54th minute. Baker’s second goal of the season slipped past the goalkeeper into the back right corner and evened the score at 1-1.
Lionsbridge continued to create shots, with Baker, Magib-So, Ortis and Lopez all looking to score, but none could connect on a goal. The Lionsbridge defense supported Hampshaw in goal as Christos had two shots blocked by defenders in the 74th minute.
Christos and Lionsbridge traded wide shots in the 86th and 87th minute as the game looked to finish in a draw even with five minutes of stoppage time. In the 94th minute, Christos was able to send a shot into the back of the net for the winning goal.
Lionsbridge returns home on May 20 when it will face the Virginia Marauders at 7 p.m. at TowneBank Stadium.
BALTIMORE, Md. – Lionsbridge FC fell 2-1 to Christos FC on Saturday night at Retriever Soccer Stadium in Baltimore.
Lionsbridge held the ball in its own offensive zone for the better part of the first 15 minutes, with both Christian Hatley and Cristian Ortiz getting shots off. Christos got on the board first, though, with a goal in the 17th minute to go ahead 1-0.
Christos was assessed a yellow card in the 22nd minute, but Lionsbridge could not capitalize on the ensuing free kick. Josh Baker laced in a corner kick to Timo Boomkens in the 25th minute, but the head from Boomkens was blocked. Baker had another shot saved in the 37th minute, and Lionsbridge could not manage to get a goal before the half was over.
In the 48th and 49th minutes, Lopez had two shots barely missed the net, but he was able to connect with Baker for a Lionsbridge goal in the 54th minute. Baker’s second goal of the season slipped past the goalkeeper into the back right corner and evened the score at 1-1.
Lionsbridge continued to create shots, with Baker, Magib-So, Ortis and Lopez all looking to score, but none could connect on a goal. The Lionsbridge defense supported Hampshaw in goal as Christos had two shots blocked by defenders in the 74th minute.
Christos and Lionsbridge traded wide shots in the 86th and 87th minute as the game looked to finish in a draw even with five minutes of stoppage time. In the 94th minute, Christos was able to send a shot into the back of the net for the winning goal.
Lionsbridge returns home on May 20 when it will face the Virginia Marauders at 7 p.m. at TowneBank Stadium.
LIONSBRIDGE GETS FIRST WIN OF SEASON IN HOME OPENER
NEWPORT NEWS, Va. – Lionsbridge FC picked up its first win of the 2026 USL League Two season with a 4-0 shutout of Grove United on Wednesday night at TowneBank Stadium.
Lionsbridge totaled 16 shots, four saves, and seven corner kicks on the night. Grove finished with five shots, two saves, and two corner kicks in the match.
Lionsbridge found the net first when Alex Kryazhev laced in a ball from Leo Conneh on the right side in the 13th minute. Conneh added his own goal just minutes later when he headed a pass from Lilian Fichelle in the 19th minute.
After ending the first 45 minutes up 2-0, Lionsbridge wasted no time added on in the second half. Josh Baker slid a ball into the back corner after a throw-in from Maldonado in the 50th minute to go ahead 3-0.
Another header for Lionsbridge, this time from Hoyos Lopez, in the 74th minute sealed the final score for Lionsbridge as the defense held off Grove United for the remainder of the game.
Lionsbridge will hit the road to face Christos FC at Under Armour Stadium on Saturday, May 16 at 7 p.m.
NEWPORT NEWS, Va. – Lionsbridge FC picked up its first win of the 2026 USL League Two season with a 4-0 shutout of Grove United on Wednesday night at TowneBank Stadium.
Lionsbridge totaled 16 shots, four saves, and seven corner kicks on the night. Grove finished with five shots, two saves, and two corner kicks in the match.
Lionsbridge found the net first when Alex Kryazhev laced in a ball from Leo Conneh on the right side in the 13th minute. Conneh added his own goal just minutes later when he headed a pass from Lilian Fichelle in the 19th minute.
After ending the first 45 minutes up 2-0, Lionsbridge wasted no time added on in the second half. Josh Baker slid a ball into the back corner after a throw-in from Maldonado in the 50th minute to go ahead 3-0.
Another header for Lionsbridge, this time from Hoyos Lopez, in the 74th minute sealed the final score for Lionsbridge as the defense held off Grove United for the remainder of the game.
Lionsbridge will hit the road to face Christos FC at Under Armour Stadium on Saturday, May 16 at 7 p.m.
LIONSBRIDGE OPEN SEASON WITH 1-1 DRAW AT VIRGINIA BEACH
VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. -- Lionsbridge FC opened the 2026 USL League Two season with a 1-1 draw against Virginia Beach United on Saturday night at the Virginia Beach SportsPlex, leaving the Coastal Virginia Challenge Cup to be decided in the return leg June 20 at TowneBank Stadium.
Lionsbridge struck first in the fifth minute, when Angel Lopez Martin finished off an assist from Christian Hatley to give the visitors an early 1-0 lead.
Virginia Beach answered in the 32nd minute through Moody, who scored from Wayland’s assist to level the match before halftime.
Lionsbridge pushed for a winner in the second half and produced its best chance in the 71st minute. Cristian Ortiz hit the post, collected the rebound and found substitute Leo Conneh, but Conneh’s shot went off target.
Ortiz continued to create danger late, including an 82nd-minute cross that found Alex Kryazhev in the box before Virginia Beach cleared the threat
Virginia Beach had a late opportunity from a free kick at the top of the box after Santiago Hoyos Lopez was booked in the 84th minute, but the attempt went wide.
Lionsbridge pressed through four minutes of stoppage time but could not find the breakthrough.
The draw gives both teams one point and sets up the second leg of the CoVa Cup on June 20 in Newport News.
Lionsbridge returns home Wednesday, May 13, for its 2026 home opener against Grove United at TowneBank Stadium on City of Newport News Night.
VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. -- Lionsbridge FC opened the 2026 USL League Two season with a 1-1 draw against Virginia Beach United on Saturday night at the Virginia Beach SportsPlex, leaving the Coastal Virginia Challenge Cup to be decided in the return leg June 20 at TowneBank Stadium.
Lionsbridge struck first in the fifth minute, when Angel Lopez Martin finished off an assist from Christian Hatley to give the visitors an early 1-0 lead.
Virginia Beach answered in the 32nd minute through Moody, who scored from Wayland’s assist to level the match before halftime.
Lionsbridge pushed for a winner in the second half and produced its best chance in the 71st minute. Cristian Ortiz hit the post, collected the rebound and found substitute Leo Conneh, but Conneh’s shot went off target.
Ortiz continued to create danger late, including an 82nd-minute cross that found Alex Kryazhev in the box before Virginia Beach cleared the threat
Virginia Beach had a late opportunity from a free kick at the top of the box after Santiago Hoyos Lopez was booked in the 84th minute, but the attempt went wide.
Lionsbridge pressed through four minutes of stoppage time but could not find the breakthrough.
The draw gives both teams one point and sets up the second leg of the CoVa Cup on June 20 in Newport News.
Lionsbridge returns home Wednesday, May 13, for its 2026 home opener against Grove United at TowneBank Stadium on City of Newport News Night.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
2026 Lionsbridge FC Season Preview
Over the last five seasons, Lionsbridge has been one of the most consistent winners in USL League Two, a league of more than 140 clubs.
Five straight playoff appearances. Three Chesapeake Division crowns. Three trips to the Eastern Conference Final. One appearance in the USL League Two National Championship Game.
It is a record of sustained success that few clubs have matched. Lionsbridge is one of only two teams in the league to reach the conference final round in each of the last three seasons.
But each of those seasons ended the same way: out against the eventual national champion.
Ballard in the 2023 final in Seattle on the final kick of the game. Seacoast United in 2024 in the Eastern Conference Final at TowneBank Stadium. Vermont Green in extra time in 2025.
That history gives 2026 its clearest theme: Lionsbridge is no longer trying to prove it belongs among the national elite. It already has. The task now is to finish the climb and put its name in the record book as national champions.
Revenge Season
Before Lionsbridge can do that, it must settle some scores closer to home.
Two long-running streaks ended in 2025. After winning the Chesapeake Division in 2022, 2023 and 2024, Lionsbridge was dethroned by Northern Virginia FC, ending the Bridge’s run of division titles dating back to the division’s creation. Virginia Beach United also broke Lionsbridge’s six-year hold on the Coastal Virginia Challenge Cup, adding weight to the May 9 opener in Virginia Beach and the June 20 return date at TowneBank Stadium.
So the 2026 mission has subplots.
Win back the edge in Hampton Roads. Reclaim the Chesapeake Division. Return to the postseason. And, ultimately, chase the national title that remains the missing piece.
The Stewardship of Chris Whalley
Chris Whalley returns for his ninth season and is the only head coach that Lionsbridge has ever known.
Under Whalley, Lionsbridge has become one of the most consistent programs in USL League Two. His teams have posted a 92-25-23 overall record, a 74% winning percentage, and since 2021 have turned TowneBank Stadium into one of the toughest places to play in the country, going 48-5-11 at home and winning 9 of its 12 home playoff matches.
The coaching staff also brings significant continuity. Whalley is joined again by veteran assistant coaches Jamie Gunderson, Josh Spencer, Fernando Zuniga and Rich Dearle, with Dário Caetano also joining as co-goalkeeping coach.
Same Neighborhood, New Neighbors
The 2026 schedule has a different look, with three new teams joining the Chesapeake Division.
On May 27, Lionsbridge will travel to Bethesda SC, one of the top youth development clubs in one of the most talent-rich areas in the country. Bethesda is fielding a USL League Two team for the first time.
On June 7, Lionsbridge will return to familiar ground — Revolution SportsPlex in Leesburg — but this time to face a brand new opponent: Loudoun United 2, the top developmental team of USL Championship side Loudoun United.
Finally, on July 3, Hill City FC will visit TowneBank Stadium. Hill City is a newly formed independent club in Lynchburg, launched under the same ownership group as fellow Chesapeake Division opponent Annapolis Blues.
That trio, plus the returning eight clubs, gives the Chesapeake Division 11 teams, the largest division in USL League Two. With only two teams guaranteed a spot in the playoffs, every match, point and goal will matter.
With an unbalanced 14-game league schedule and little time for separation in the table, a strong start will be essential. But after five straight years in the playoffs, Lionsbridge knows better than anyone: the best team in May and June is not always the team still standing in July.
A Roster With International Range and Local Roots
The 2026 roster reflects what Lionsbridge has become: international, experienced, college-proven, locally connected and deep across every line.
The squad features players from Portugal, England, the Netherlands, France, Ecuador, Paraguay, Colombia, Spain, the U.S. Virgin Islands and across the United States, including Virginia products from Newport News, Williamsburg, Woodbridge, Dumfries, Virginia Beach and Falls Church.
In goal, Lionsbridge brings back Henry Hampshaw, the star of last year’s playoff match against Vermont, as well as local product Ethan Chenoweth. The Bridge also adds Paraguayan goalkeeper Diego Garciarena and Portuguese goalkeeper Dário Caetano. Garciarena joins after earning Northeast Conference Goalkeeper of the Year honors at Saint Francis before recently transferring to William & Mary. Caetano arrives after a standout career at Dayton, where he helped lead the Flyers to back-to-back Atlantic 10 championships and an NCAA Sweet 16 appearance.
The back line has size, experience and versatility. No one has worn the Lionsbridge shirt more times, and no one has scored more goals, than defender Sam Hall. He is back for his fifth season after scoring 10 goals in 2025. Timo Boomkens brings All-American credentials from Keiser. Lilian Fichelle arrives from Campbell after developing with RC Lens in France. David Guevara brings Ecuadorian youth national team experience, and Andrew Hollenbach adds a 6-foot-4 presence after earning First Team All-Horizon League honors.
Lionsbridge also adds defenders with national team experience in Raí Pinto (Portugal) and Jimson St. Louis (U.S. Virgin Islands). Finn van den Berg and Benjamin Velasquez arrive after highly decorated college careers, while former Chowan captain Harry Baker gives Whalley another familiar option across the back line.
The midfield has a mix of returning leadership, ball-winning, creativity and local energy. Josh Baker returns as one of the most iconic figures in club history, joined by Luc Achermann, Clay Obara, Michael Eberle, Abdou Magib So, Jan Maldonado, Alex Matthews, Jackson Miller and 17-year-old Newport News homegrown Grady Morello.
Achermann was productive for LBFC in 2025, with two goals and four assists in 11 appearances. Matthews brings All-American pedigree from Missouri State and now Indiana. Miller arrives after three seasons at Cal Poly and a move to Syracuse. Morello, from Hilton Village and Menchville High School, made his Lionsbridge debut at 16 last season and remains one of the clearest symbols of the club’s local pathway.
Up front, Lionsbridge has both returning production and new firepower. Christian Hatley returns for his fourth season with the Bridge after scoring nine goals in 2025. The attacking group also includes Leo Conneh, Alex Kryazhev, Santiago Hoyos López, Angel López Martín and Cristian Ortiz.
Conneh comes from Liberty after producing 10 goals and 13 assists across three seasons. Kryazhev brings 63 NCAA Division I appearances, 13 goals and 11 assists. Hoyos López arrives after a 12-goal season at Nova Southeastern and previous USL League Two success with Dothan United. López Martín developed with Sevilla FC and Real Betis before coming to the United States. Ortiz, the youngest player on the first team squad at just 19 years old, already has professional experience with Tampa Bay Rowdies and Columbus Crew 2.
Local products Max Cooper and Christian Robertson also bring prior Lionsbridge goals. Cooper, from Williamsburg, scored in his debut in 2024. Robertson, from Newport News, scored in his debut in 2025 and later scored on his collegiate debut for Radford.
Lessons From 2025
Lionsbridge finished 2025 with a 16-3-3 overall record, including a 12-3-3 USL League Two regular season and another trip to the Eastern Conference Final. The season included dominant wins, late comebacks and another strong home playoff run before ending in extra time at Vermont Green.
Lionsbridge scored in volume, often from multiple positions, and finished with one of the most dangerous attacks in the country, scoring a league-high 55 goals in just 14 games.
Eleven players turned pro from last year’s team, highlighted by Ricky Louis, the No. 2 overall pick in the MLS Draft, with others signing in the USL Championship, USL League One and abroad.
The numbers from 2025 show how much production and star power must be replaced, but also how much experience returns.
Baker, Hall, Hatley, Hampshaw and Achermann give the 2026 group important continuity. But as always in USL League Two, the challenge is not only attracting talent. It is how quickly the group embraces the culture, develops chemistry and holds together down the stretch with college seasons fast approaching.
The Key Stretch
The league schedule gives Lionsbridge several clear measuring points. The opener at Virginia Beach United is more than a road match. It is a rivalry game, a Coastal Virginia Challenge Cup marker, and an immediate test against the club that interrupted one of Lionsbridge’s longest local trophy streaks.
The June 13 home match against Northern Virginia FC also carries extra weight. Northern Virginia took the Chesapeake Division crown in 2025, ending Lionsbridge’s three-year run as division champion. The return match at Segra Field on July 8 figures to have major table implications again.
That closing week -- Northern Virginia away on July 8 and Charlottesville Blues at home on July 11 -- could determine whether Lionsbridge is chasing, protecting or reclaiming the top of the division heading into the postseason.
The USL League Two playoffs begin July 14, with the national final on Saturday, August 1.
What Success Looks Like
For Lionsbridge, making the playoffs is no longer the ceiling.
The club has hosted playoff matches every year since 2021. It has won division titles, lifted regional trophies, qualified for the Open Cup, reached the national final, and built one of the strongest home-field advantages in USL League Two.
Three straight seasons have ended against the eventual national champion: Ballard FC in 2023, Seacoast United in 2024, and Vermont Green in 2025. That is both a mark of how close Lionsbridge has been and a reminder of the final step still left to take.
The 2026 roster has enough talent, depth and returning players who understand what TowneBank Stadium feels like in the heat and pressure of July.
The division race matters. The Virginia Beach rivalry matters. The Coastal Virginia Challenge Cup matters. So does reclaiming the Chesapeake Division from Northern Virginia.
But the aim is clear: there is still space in the trophy cabinet for the big one.
The climb starts May 9 in Virginia Beach, and the home campaign begins May 13 in Newport News. If all goes according to plan, it will become a 22-game march to the national final on August 1, and a chance to lift the one trophy that has been barely out of reach.
2026 Lionsbridge FC Season Preview
Over the last five seasons, Lionsbridge has been one of the most consistent winners in USL League Two, a league of more than 140 clubs.
Five straight playoff appearances. Three Chesapeake Division crowns. Three trips to the Eastern Conference Final. One appearance in the USL League Two National Championship Game.
It is a record of sustained success that few clubs have matched. Lionsbridge is one of only two teams in the league to reach the conference final round in each of the last three seasons.
But each of those seasons ended the same way: out against the eventual national champion.
Ballard in the 2023 final in Seattle on the final kick of the game. Seacoast United in 2024 in the Eastern Conference Final at TowneBank Stadium. Vermont Green in extra time in 2025.
That history gives 2026 its clearest theme: Lionsbridge is no longer trying to prove it belongs among the national elite. It already has. The task now is to finish the climb and put its name in the record book as national champions.
Revenge Season
Before Lionsbridge can do that, it must settle some scores closer to home.
Two long-running streaks ended in 2025. After winning the Chesapeake Division in 2022, 2023 and 2024, Lionsbridge was dethroned by Northern Virginia FC, ending the Bridge’s run of division titles dating back to the division’s creation. Virginia Beach United also broke Lionsbridge’s six-year hold on the Coastal Virginia Challenge Cup, adding weight to the May 9 opener in Virginia Beach and the June 20 return date at TowneBank Stadium.
So the 2026 mission has subplots.
Win back the edge in Hampton Roads. Reclaim the Chesapeake Division. Return to the postseason. And, ultimately, chase the national title that remains the missing piece.
The Stewardship of Chris Whalley
Chris Whalley returns for his ninth season and is the only head coach that Lionsbridge has ever known.
Under Whalley, Lionsbridge has become one of the most consistent programs in USL League Two. His teams have posted a 92-25-23 overall record, a 74% winning percentage, and since 2021 have turned TowneBank Stadium into one of the toughest places to play in the country, going 48-5-11 at home and winning 9 of its 12 home playoff matches.
The coaching staff also brings significant continuity. Whalley is joined again by veteran assistant coaches Jamie Gunderson, Josh Spencer, Fernando Zuniga and Rich Dearle, with Dário Caetano also joining as co-goalkeeping coach.
Same Neighborhood, New Neighbors
The 2026 schedule has a different look, with three new teams joining the Chesapeake Division.
On May 27, Lionsbridge will travel to Bethesda SC, one of the top youth development clubs in one of the most talent-rich areas in the country. Bethesda is fielding a USL League Two team for the first time.
On June 7, Lionsbridge will return to familiar ground — Revolution SportsPlex in Leesburg — but this time to face a brand new opponent: Loudoun United 2, the top developmental team of USL Championship side Loudoun United.
Finally, on July 3, Hill City FC will visit TowneBank Stadium. Hill City is a newly formed independent club in Lynchburg, launched under the same ownership group as fellow Chesapeake Division opponent Annapolis Blues.
That trio, plus the returning eight clubs, gives the Chesapeake Division 11 teams, the largest division in USL League Two. With only two teams guaranteed a spot in the playoffs, every match, point and goal will matter.
With an unbalanced 14-game league schedule and little time for separation in the table, a strong start will be essential. But after five straight years in the playoffs, Lionsbridge knows better than anyone: the best team in May and June is not always the team still standing in July.
A Roster With International Range and Local Roots
The 2026 roster reflects what Lionsbridge has become: international, experienced, college-proven, locally connected and deep across every line.
The squad features players from Portugal, England, the Netherlands, France, Ecuador, Paraguay, Colombia, Spain, the U.S. Virgin Islands and across the United States, including Virginia products from Newport News, Williamsburg, Woodbridge, Dumfries, Virginia Beach and Falls Church.
In goal, Lionsbridge brings back Henry Hampshaw, the star of last year’s playoff match against Vermont, as well as local product Ethan Chenoweth. The Bridge also adds Paraguayan goalkeeper Diego Garciarena and Portuguese goalkeeper Dário Caetano. Garciarena joins after earning Northeast Conference Goalkeeper of the Year honors at Saint Francis before recently transferring to William & Mary. Caetano arrives after a standout career at Dayton, where he helped lead the Flyers to back-to-back Atlantic 10 championships and an NCAA Sweet 16 appearance.
The back line has size, experience and versatility. No one has worn the Lionsbridge shirt more times, and no one has scored more goals, than defender Sam Hall. He is back for his fifth season after scoring 10 goals in 2025. Timo Boomkens brings All-American credentials from Keiser. Lilian Fichelle arrives from Campbell after developing with RC Lens in France. David Guevara brings Ecuadorian youth national team experience, and Andrew Hollenbach adds a 6-foot-4 presence after earning First Team All-Horizon League honors.
Lionsbridge also adds defenders with national team experience in Raí Pinto (Portugal) and Jimson St. Louis (U.S. Virgin Islands). Finn van den Berg and Benjamin Velasquez arrive after highly decorated college careers, while former Chowan captain Harry Baker gives Whalley another familiar option across the back line.
The midfield has a mix of returning leadership, ball-winning, creativity and local energy. Josh Baker returns as one of the most iconic figures in club history, joined by Luc Achermann, Clay Obara, Michael Eberle, Abdou Magib So, Jan Maldonado, Alex Matthews, Jackson Miller and 17-year-old Newport News homegrown Grady Morello.
Achermann was productive for LBFC in 2025, with two goals and four assists in 11 appearances. Matthews brings All-American pedigree from Missouri State and now Indiana. Miller arrives after three seasons at Cal Poly and a move to Syracuse. Morello, from Hilton Village and Menchville High School, made his Lionsbridge debut at 16 last season and remains one of the clearest symbols of the club’s local pathway.
Up front, Lionsbridge has both returning production and new firepower. Christian Hatley returns for his fourth season with the Bridge after scoring nine goals in 2025. The attacking group also includes Leo Conneh, Alex Kryazhev, Santiago Hoyos López, Angel López Martín and Cristian Ortiz.
Conneh comes from Liberty after producing 10 goals and 13 assists across three seasons. Kryazhev brings 63 NCAA Division I appearances, 13 goals and 11 assists. Hoyos López arrives after a 12-goal season at Nova Southeastern and previous USL League Two success with Dothan United. López Martín developed with Sevilla FC and Real Betis before coming to the United States. Ortiz, the youngest player on the first team squad at just 19 years old, already has professional experience with Tampa Bay Rowdies and Columbus Crew 2.
Local products Max Cooper and Christian Robertson also bring prior Lionsbridge goals. Cooper, from Williamsburg, scored in his debut in 2024. Robertson, from Newport News, scored in his debut in 2025 and later scored on his collegiate debut for Radford.
Lessons From 2025
Lionsbridge finished 2025 with a 16-3-3 overall record, including a 12-3-3 USL League Two regular season and another trip to the Eastern Conference Final. The season included dominant wins, late comebacks and another strong home playoff run before ending in extra time at Vermont Green.
Lionsbridge scored in volume, often from multiple positions, and finished with one of the most dangerous attacks in the country, scoring a league-high 55 goals in just 14 games.
Eleven players turned pro from last year’s team, highlighted by Ricky Louis, the No. 2 overall pick in the MLS Draft, with others signing in the USL Championship, USL League One and abroad.
The numbers from 2025 show how much production and star power must be replaced, but also how much experience returns.
Baker, Hall, Hatley, Hampshaw and Achermann give the 2026 group important continuity. But as always in USL League Two, the challenge is not only attracting talent. It is how quickly the group embraces the culture, develops chemistry and holds together down the stretch with college seasons fast approaching.
The Key Stretch
The league schedule gives Lionsbridge several clear measuring points. The opener at Virginia Beach United is more than a road match. It is a rivalry game, a Coastal Virginia Challenge Cup marker, and an immediate test against the club that interrupted one of Lionsbridge’s longest local trophy streaks.
The June 13 home match against Northern Virginia FC also carries extra weight. Northern Virginia took the Chesapeake Division crown in 2025, ending Lionsbridge’s three-year run as division champion. The return match at Segra Field on July 8 figures to have major table implications again.
That closing week -- Northern Virginia away on July 8 and Charlottesville Blues at home on July 11 -- could determine whether Lionsbridge is chasing, protecting or reclaiming the top of the division heading into the postseason.
The USL League Two playoffs begin July 14, with the national final on Saturday, August 1.
What Success Looks Like
For Lionsbridge, making the playoffs is no longer the ceiling.
The club has hosted playoff matches every year since 2021. It has won division titles, lifted regional trophies, qualified for the Open Cup, reached the national final, and built one of the strongest home-field advantages in USL League Two.
Three straight seasons have ended against the eventual national champion: Ballard FC in 2023, Seacoast United in 2024, and Vermont Green in 2025. That is both a mark of how close Lionsbridge has been and a reminder of the final step still left to take.
The 2026 roster has enough talent, depth and returning players who understand what TowneBank Stadium feels like in the heat and pressure of July.
The division race matters. The Virginia Beach rivalry matters. The Coastal Virginia Challenge Cup matters. So does reclaiming the Chesapeake Division from Northern Virginia.
But the aim is clear: there is still space in the trophy cabinet for the big one.
The climb starts May 9 in Virginia Beach, and the home campaign begins May 13 in Newport News. If all goes according to plan, it will become a 22-game march to the national final on August 1, and a chance to lift the one trophy that has been barely out of reach.
START MAKING YOUR 2026 SUMMER PLANS... The 2026 Schedule is Out!
Lionsbridge FC returns for its ninth USL League Two season in 2026 under head coach Chris Whalley with another demanding Chesapeake Division slate that reflects the league’s continued growth and competitive depth.
The club will play 18 regular season matches, including 11 home fixtures at TowneBank Stadium, where one of the most passionate and consistent supporter environments in League Two continues to shape the matchday experience. Familiar regional rivalries, new opponents, and a schedule filled with high-stakes divisional matchups will again define the road to the postseason.
The 2026 campaign offers supporters multiple marquee nights throughout the summer, including rivalry fixtures, community celebrations, and signature Bowditch Ford Fireworks matches. Season jerseys and wristbands remain the club’s all-access pass, guaranteeing entry to every home match and providing the best overall value across the summer.
With playoff ambitions and another championship pursuit ahead, the 2026 schedule sets the stage for a summer built around competition, community, and the matchday atmosphere that defines Lionsbridge FC.
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WHALLEY RETURNS FOR NINTH YEAR AS HEAD COACH
Chris Whalley will lead Lionsbridge FC for a ninth season in 2026, continuing a tenure that has established the club as one of the premier programs in USL League Two. Since 2018, Whalley has guided Lionsbridge to five consecutive playoff appearances, three straight Chesapeake Division titles, two Eastern Conference Finals and a 2023 league final. His teams hold a 92-25-23 all-time record, including a 48-5-11 mark at TowneBank Stadium since 2021. During Whalley’s tenure, 31 Lionsbridge players have advanced to the professional ranks across MLS, USL and internationally, with alumni earning MLS first-round selections and U.S. Men’s National Team recognition. Whalley, a native of Nottinghamshire, England, brings 18 years of head coaching experience and also serves as head coach at Chowan University, where he is the program’s all-time wins leader. He will be assisted by assistant coaches Josh Spencer, Jamie Gunderson, Fernando Zuniga and co-goalkeeper coaches Rich Dearle and Dario Caetano. |
FANS CHOOSE 'PENINSULA NAVY' AS 2026 HOME & SEASON TICKET JERSEY
Lionsbridge supporters have spoken – loudly and clearly!
With more than 500 votes cast across Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, the Peninsula Navy kit stormed to victory in our 2026 jersey fan vote. The bold blue-and-navy design captured more than twice as many votes as the runner-up, making it the runaway favorite and the newest chapter in our club’s tradition of fan-powered style.
The Peninsula Navy shirt will be our 2026 home jersey and the exclusive Season Ticket Jersey.
Lionsbridge supporters have spoken – loudly and clearly!
With more than 500 votes cast across Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, the Peninsula Navy kit stormed to victory in our 2026 jersey fan vote. The bold blue-and-navy design captured more than twice as many votes as the runner-up, making it the runaway favorite and the newest chapter in our club’s tradition of fan-powered style.
The Peninsula Navy shirt will be our 2026 home jersey and the exclusive Season Ticket Jersey.
ELEVEN LIONSBRIDGE ALUMNI SIGN PROFESSIONAL CONTRACTS ACROSS U.S., EUROPE
Lionsbridge FC has produced 11 professional signings this offseason, continuing the club’s progression pipeline across MLS, MLS NEXT Pro, USL League One and Europe.
Headlining the group is Ricky Louis, who scored 11 goals in 17 matches in 2025, was selected second overall in the MLS SuperDraft by FC Dallas. Midfielder Felix Ewald signed with Real Monarchs SLC after recording seven goals in eight matches.
Defender Javi Sanchez moved to FK Jerv in Norway following eight appearances in 2025. Defender Damean Dominguez signed with San Juan FC after starting 20 matches and contributing one goal and one assist.
Forward Denis Krioutchenkov joined One Knoxville SC after totaling 16 goals and seven assists across two seasons. Forward Taig Healy signed with Fort Wayne FC following a six-match stretch that included three goals and three assists during the 2025 postseason run.
Defender Davide Materazzi completed a four-year Lionsbridge career with 56 appearances and signed with New York Cosmos.
Goalkeeper Mitch Budler started three games for Lionsbridge during the 2025 season, and LBFC went unbeaten in those contests.
Three members of the 2024 team have moved onto the next level. Defender Jasper Winslow signed with Tacoma Defiance after appearing in 17 matches. Forward Claudel N’Goubou joined Forward Madison FC following a four-goal season. Defender Donovan Williams also signed with One Knoxville after featuring in four matches.
The 11 signings bring Lionsbridge’s all-time total to 32 players advancing to the professional ranks since 2018.
Lionsbridge reached the USL League Two Eastern Conference Final in both 2024 and 2025.
Lionsbridge FC has produced 11 professional signings this offseason, continuing the club’s progression pipeline across MLS, MLS NEXT Pro, USL League One and Europe.
Headlining the group is Ricky Louis, who scored 11 goals in 17 matches in 2025, was selected second overall in the MLS SuperDraft by FC Dallas. Midfielder Felix Ewald signed with Real Monarchs SLC after recording seven goals in eight matches.
Defender Javi Sanchez moved to FK Jerv in Norway following eight appearances in 2025. Defender Damean Dominguez signed with San Juan FC after starting 20 matches and contributing one goal and one assist.
Forward Denis Krioutchenkov joined One Knoxville SC after totaling 16 goals and seven assists across two seasons. Forward Taig Healy signed with Fort Wayne FC following a six-match stretch that included three goals and three assists during the 2025 postseason run.
Defender Davide Materazzi completed a four-year Lionsbridge career with 56 appearances and signed with New York Cosmos.
Goalkeeper Mitch Budler started three games for Lionsbridge during the 2025 season, and LBFC went unbeaten in those contests.
Three members of the 2024 team have moved onto the next level. Defender Jasper Winslow signed with Tacoma Defiance after appearing in 17 matches. Forward Claudel N’Goubou joined Forward Madison FC following a four-goal season. Defender Donovan Williams also signed with One Knoxville after featuring in four matches.
The 11 signings bring Lionsbridge’s all-time total to 32 players advancing to the professional ranks since 2018.
Lionsbridge reached the USL League Two Eastern Conference Final in both 2024 and 2025.
FROM ALL OF US AT LIONSBRIDGE FC...
Before we close the book on the summer of 2025, we’re taking a moment to say two words: Thank you.
This season was one for the books: 5th straight playoff berth and 3rd consecutive Eastern Conference Final. It is a rare set of achievements born from the dedication and support of our community, powering the exceptional talent and passion our players and coaches bring while representing not just this club, but this community as a whole.
If you've ever worn a Lionsbridge shirt as a player or a fan, volunteered at a game, hosted a player, sponsored the club, mowed the grass, put a Lionsbridge magnet on your car or come back at 1am for a game that's still in the first half, or helped in countless other ways big or small... you have helped create something more than a soccer club. You’ve built a place where success on the scoreboard is only part of the story.
Every part of this community makes the ’Bridge stronger. And it is our hope that we make our community stronger in return.
Lionsbridge Football Club. Made with Love.
Before we close the book on the summer of 2025, we’re taking a moment to say two words: Thank you.
This season was one for the books: 5th straight playoff berth and 3rd consecutive Eastern Conference Final. It is a rare set of achievements born from the dedication and support of our community, powering the exceptional talent and passion our players and coaches bring while representing not just this club, but this community as a whole.
If you've ever worn a Lionsbridge shirt as a player or a fan, volunteered at a game, hosted a player, sponsored the club, mowed the grass, put a Lionsbridge magnet on your car or come back at 1am for a game that's still in the first half, or helped in countless other ways big or small... you have helped create something more than a soccer club. You’ve built a place where success on the scoreboard is only part of the story.
Every part of this community makes the ’Bridge stronger. And it is our hope that we make our community stronger in return.
Lionsbridge Football Club. Made with Love.
This Is Lionsbridge FC
⭐ USL League Two National Finalist (2023)
🏆 USL League Two Eastern Conference Champion (2023)
⭐ USL League Two Eastern Conference Runner-Up (2024, 2025)
🏆 Chesapeake Division Champion (2022, 2023, 2024)
⭐ USL League Two Playoff Host (2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025)
⭐ Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup Qualifier (2023, 2024, 2025)
🏆 Coastal Virginia Challenge Cup winner (2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024)
🏆 Commonwealth Cup Champion (2018)
🏆 USL League Two Eastern Conference Champion (2023)
⭐ USL League Two Eastern Conference Runner-Up (2024, 2025)
🏆 Chesapeake Division Champion (2022, 2023, 2024)
⭐ USL League Two Playoff Host (2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025)
⭐ Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup Qualifier (2023, 2024, 2025)
🏆 Coastal Virginia Challenge Cup winner (2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024)
🏆 Commonwealth Cup Champion (2018)
LIONSBRIDGE FC NAMED USL LEAGUE TWO FRANCHISE OF THE YEAR
Lionsbridge FC was named the Franchise of the Year by USL League Two at the league's Winter Summit. (FULL ARTICLE)
Lionsbridge FC was named the Franchise of the Year by USL League Two at the league's Winter Summit. (FULL ARTICLE)
USL LEAGUE TWO RECOGNIZES LIONSBRIDGE FC FOR ITS COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS
(USLLeagueTwo.com) – The Hampton Roads area of Virginia has a well-documented passion for soccer. Though the interest in global soccer has been present for some time, the area hadn't recently had a club to call its own until two years ago. That changed when Lionsbridge FC was founded. (FULL ARTICLE)
(USLLeagueTwo.com) – The Hampton Roads area of Virginia has a well-documented passion for soccer. Though the interest in global soccer has been present for some time, the area hadn't recently had a club to call its own until two years ago. That changed when Lionsbridge FC was founded. (FULL ARTICLE)
