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Match Preview: Republic FC v El Paso Locomotive FC

The 2023 USL Championship campaign, as well as Republic FC’s 10^th season of play, officially begins this weekend as the Indomitable Club takes to El Paso, Texas. The same foe as last season’s opening night fixture awaits them – El Paso Locomotive FC – as the quest for 2023 silverware officially begins.

At a Glance: #ELPvSAC

Saturday, March 11
6:30 p.m. PT kickoff
Southwest University Park, El Paso, Texas
Watch: FOX40.com, Antenna TV 40.2, ESPN+
Watch Party: Brickyard Counter and Bar, 4364 Town Center Blvd #128, El Dorado Hills, CA

Republic FC – The Latest

Sacramento enters Saturday’s season opener eager to get the new campaign underway. At the start of training camp on January 28, eyes were already on this match after the club returned a bulk of last season’s squad. It’s been a competitive preseason for the club since, which should benefit them in a tough road environment to kick off the year.

The club enters the season right where they want to be, closing out preseason with a strong showing against regional rival Monterey Bay F.C. in a friendly at Heart Health Park that saw new acquisitions Russell Cicerone and Sebastian Herrera each find the back of the net.

Know Your Opponent

Locomotive FC shook some things up this offseason, retooling their backline with a few notable names – the biggest being former Watford defender Marc Navarro. However, in the midfield and on the attack, the club remains familiar from past seasons. U.S. U-20 midfielder Diego Luna is gone after his midseason transfer to Real Salt Lake in 2022, but Yuma, Luis Solignac, and Emmanuel Sonupe all remain, and pose capable threats in the attacking half.

New Manager Brian Clarhaut will likely bring a new system to the West Texas side. He joins the club after spending the past six seasons coaching in Sweden’s top division, most recently at GIF Sundsvall. 2023 marks his first post in the U.S. at the professional level.

Head-to-Head

Sacramento will look to repeat last year’s season opener success with another first-game win against the Texas side. In 2022, the Quails opened the season strong with a 3-1 win over El Paso in front of a lively crowd at Heart Health Park. Now on the road, the club will look to secure its first victory at Southwest University Park and start the season with three points. (All-time record vs. El Paso: 1-5-0).

10 Year Anniversary Legacy Kit Celebrates Republic FC’s History with Icons Reflecting Club’s Fans, Community

Club’s first kit with Danish sportswear brand and legacy football company hummel
Founding partners SMUD and UC Davis Health to be featured on kit honoring decade of Republic FC
Design includes icons connected to a decade of the Indomitable Club’s history, as well as elements marking the special celebratory season
Republic FC will launch a second hummel kit in the coming weeks

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — As part of its 10^th season celebration, Republic FC unveiled the first new 2023 kit with global sportswear leader hummel at a special event for the club’s longest-tenured Indomitable Members. The 10^th Anniversary Legacy Kit reflects on the Indomitable Club’s history with icons that connect back to the club’s founding and the seasons that followed. Throughout the season, the club will celebrate the milestones and achievements of Republic FC at matches, with new kits, and special events to thank fans, partners, and community members for a decade of support. The Legacy Kit is now available for presale at Shop.SacRepublicFC.com in youth, women’s and men’s adult sizes.

“This season will be a year-long celebration of how our club and community have grown,” said Republic FC Chairman and CEO Kevin Nagle. “The Legacy Kit salutes the proud heritage of our club, built by fans and friends, who have helped create a foundation for the next decade of Republic FC to thrive upon.”

The 10^th Anniversary Legacy kit reflects on the history of the club, from the influence fans and the region have had on the club, to the special marks that have decorated the kits from previous seasons. The black kit with panels was first introduced in 2018 as part of the club’s #5YearsofGlory Celebration. The metallic tone of the chevrons and paneling on the kit is symbolic of tin for 10-year anniversaries. The sash – a staple of Republic FC kits dating back to the club’s first match – is comprised of meaningful icons, tying together several elements of the club’s history as well as fan-favorite on-field looks.

The solid star is a salute to the club’s unfathomable first season – from 20,000 fans at the first home match to the storybook ending with a championship. The bear, “Urbs Indomita,” and Republic FC word mark connect directly to the fan input that helped vault the team to the American soccer lexicon a decade ago. The Tower Bridge, one of Sacramento’s most iconic landmarks that was included in the 2019 City Kit also pays homage to the club’s supporters; A quail’s head and feathering from the 2021 Quail Kit are symbolic the impact that the fans have had on the club by establishing a beloved nickname; the coordinates for Sacramento’s City Hall represent the 2022 City of Trees kit.

Two founding partners, integral to the growth of soccer in Sacramento, will be featured on the club’s kit this season. Founding partner UC Davis Health – which has been on every Republic FC kit since 2014, remains prominently displayed across the chest. After a decade of partnering with Republic FC to power community investment, SMUD will be proudly featured on the club’s kit sleeve, including the club’s academy jerseys.

The number “10” makes an appearance in multiple ways to celebrate the club’s 10th season, along with the years 2014 and 2023 – signifying Republic FC’s inaugural USL campaign as well as this milestone season. Above the player’s name, the commemorative logo unveiled for the anniversary season showcases the club’s evolution and progression, from its Old Glory Red roots to this season the new color addition, Resilient Red.

The newest kit is crafted by hummel – a bold, inclusive, and inspiring Danish football brand that is celebrating its 100^th anniversary this year. The brand’s iconic bumblebee logo is displayed across from Republic FC’s crest, celebrating the partners’ shared commitment to changing the world through the beautiful game. New hummel x Republic FC apparel will be released throughout the season, as well as an alternate kit.

The Indomitable Club will debut the new kit for the 2023 USL Championship Season Opener on March 11, when the club travels to face El Paso Locomotive. The squad returns to Heart Health Park on March 18 for the home opener against Charleston Battery. Kickoff is set for 7:00 p.m. and tickets are on sale now at SacRepublicFC.com/tickets.

Visit SacRepublicFC.com for more information about the 2023 season.

Republic FC Launches Pledge Drive to Fight Colon Cancer in Memory of Fan

This March, Republic FC is inviting fans and community members to honor the life and legacy of Shaun “Crash” Kitka, a passionate fan and dedicated member of the Tower Bridge Battalion who sadly passed away after a battle with colon cancer. In recognition of Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month and Crash’s advocacy work, the club will be launching a pledge-based donation campaign beginning Saturday, March 4.

For every goal scored by the Indomitable Club during the month, Republic FC will pledge $100 to benefit the Colon Cancer Alliance and Fight Colorectal Cancer, two organizations that are dedicated to supporting colon cancer patients and survivors and raising awareness about the disease. Fans are also invited to pledge any amount in addition to the club’s pledge.

MAKE YOUR PLEDGE NOW

Tonight we pay tribute to Tower Bridge Battalion member and Season Ticket Member Shaun "Crash" Kitka, who passed away earlier this week after a battle with colon cancer.

Forever Indomitable. 🤍 pic.twitter.com/0gMwIAOg84
— Sacramento Republic FC (@SacRepublicFC) September 11, 2022

Crash was a shining example of the passion and dedication that fans have for this club, and his impact on the entire Sacramento Republic FC community will be forever remembered. He was recognized in 2021 with the Kevin Nagle Indomitable Spirit Award for his work to improve resources for patients and survivors of colon cancer, and his desire to bring colon cancer screenings to the forefront for younger audiences inspired many.

Republic FC’s March Matches

Saturday, March 4 vs. Monterey Bay F.C. (Preseason)
Saturday, March 11 at El Paso Locomotive
Saturday, March 18 vs. Charleston Battery
Saturday, March 25 vs. San Diego Loyal SC

Every Goal Counts – Make Your Pledge Today!

Preseason Match Preview: Republic FC at Central Valley Fuego FC

A mid-week fixture against Central Valley Fuego FC this week continues Republic FC’s busy exhibition slate. Wednesday, Sacramento travels south to face the Fresno club for their fifth preseason friendly ahead of the 2023 season, looking to continue building to opening night on March 11.

At a Glance: #SACvCVF

Wednesday, February 22
3:00 PM PT Kickoff
No broadcast available
Ratcliffe Stadium, Fresno, California

Last week, Sacramento rallied back from a two-score deficit against Monterey Bay F.C. to secure a draw, showing great intensity despite playing from behind. The Quails were dangerous up top for the entire match and strong on the defensive end, especially in the second half. Continued press late resulted in Jack Gurr netting two scores in the final ten minutes, sending the club home from the central coast with a result.

Looking ahead, emphasis remains on getting the entire squad into the action and keeping their intensity high. Wednesday’s contest is a big opportunity for the club to continue its progress forward, as well.

“We’ve got to continue to build our fitness, and continue to work on what we’ve been working on in practice,” said Mark Briggs after Saturday’s result at Monterey Bay. “We need to continue to make sure we’re prepared physically and mentally for our first game in El Paso.”

Fuego FC welcomes the Quails exactly one month before their first match of 2023. So far this preseason, they’ve played three contests, including one each against NorCal foe Oakland Roots and former USL club LA Galaxy II. In 2022, they proved to be one of the toughest teams to play against in all of League One, making the night difficult for opponents regularly. The club brings back a bulk of last season’s squad, including USL Championship veteran and former Republic FC attacker Villyan Bijev. They’ll be hungry to show well against a local rival.

Republic FC Teams Up with OTS and Caltrans to Promote Safe Driving on Matchdays and Beyond

Sacramento Republic FC, California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS), and California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) announced today a renewed partnership that drives an education campaign focused on safe and sober driving.

As a part of the “Go Safely” game plan program that was introduced in 2022, fans will continue to see messages at Heart Health Park raising awareness about the importance of having fun responsibly and not driving under the influence of alcohol. Fans can also sign up for the Designated Driver Program and score a free non-alcoholic drink voucher and reusable cup for being a designated sober driver. The OTS and Caltrans will also distribute yellow cards to select fans at each home match with information on the “Go Safely” game plan and Designated Driver Program, giving fans a fun way to interact during the match.

The partnership’s “Go Safely” game plan is as easy as 1, 2, 3:

Before you grab a drink, grab a designated sober driver.
If you plan to drink at the match or watch the match with friends, pass the keys to a sober driver or grab a safe ride home: take public transit, use a ride-hailing service, or call a sober friend or family member.
Stick to the “Go Safely” game plan and don’t let friends drive impaired.

Additional messaging and content will focus on safe and responsible driving beyond the dangers of drunk driving, including: “Get Off Your Apps” to promote California’s hands-free cell phone law and the risks of distracted driving, “Share the Road” to remind drivers to look out for bicyclists and pedestrians, and “Be Work Zone Alert” and move over a lane to provide a safer environment for maintenance workers and emergency responders working next to fast moving traffic.

Safe and sober driving messages will also appear in Republic FC matchday e-mails and broadcasts, as well as the club’s website, mobile app, and social media channels.

“As a part of our core value of Unified Community, we have a responsibility to protect each other, and that extends to keeping everyone safe on the road,” said Republic FC President and General Manager Todd Dunivant. “By extending our partnership with OTS and working with Caltrans to further promote the importance of safe driving, we are continuing our commitment to providing a safe and fun matchday experience for fans and making Sacramento a healthier place for all.”

“We are excited to grow our partnership with Sacramento Republic FC to further emphasize the importance of being responsible behind the wheel,” said OTS Director Barbara Rooney. “Let’s assist one another and save lives. It’s a win when we all play a part in making our roads safer for everyone.”

“Caltrans is firmly committed to reaching zero fatalities and serious injuries on our state’s roadways by the year 2050,” said Caltrans Director Tony Tavares. “This bold effort will need all hands on deck, and Caltrans is thrilled to team up with the Office of Traffic Safety and Sac Republic FC to encourage drivers to do their part by slowing down, avoiding distractions, and never driving under the influence.”

To learn more about efforts to save lives on California roads, visit gosafelyca.org, and follow Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @GoSafelyCA.

For information on alternate, safe transportation options to and from Heart Health Park, visit SacRepublicFC.com.

Republic FC’s 10^th USL Championship campaign will kick off on the road on Saturday, March 11, when the squad travels to Texas to take on El Paso Locomotive. The Indomitable Club will return to Sacramento on March 18 for the 2023 home opener at Heart Health Park, hosting Eastern Conference opponent Charleston Battery for the first time since 2014. The only way to secure tickets today and receive the commemorative 10^th season scarf is to become a member. Learn more by calling (916) 307-6100 and visiting SacRepublicFC.com/Memberships.

Preseason Match Preview: Republic FC at Monterey Bay F.C.

Following ten days on the road in Tucson, Arizona and Austin, Texas, the remainder of the Indomitable Club’s preparations for the 2023 season will take place in Northern California. Saturday, the Quails head to Seaside to face off with league foe and regional rival Monterey Bay F.C. in the fourth exhibition contest of this season’s training camp.

At a Glance: #SACvMB

Saturday, February 18
3:00 PM PT Kickoff
No broadcast available – follow @SacRepublicFC on Twitter for updates
Q2 Stadium, Austin, Texas

Three contests against MLS clubs to open the preseason set a high standard for Republic FC. But the challenge should serve to benefit the club over the next three weeks as they’ll be better prepared having gone against high-level players and teams stronger, fitter, and closer to the start of their upcoming campaigns. Coming off their preseason trip, and now halfway through their preparations for opening night, the club will have a better understanding of how they want to play.

Each of the club’s three matches has shown signs of progress. Against Austin FC Wednesday, Sacramento followed up an improved performance against Real Salt Lake with a strong defensive effort, keeping the Texan side out of net until the 84^th minute after a full line change featuring the biggest names and faces for the Verde and Black.

Monterey Bay F.C. had an active offseason, bringing back a bulk of their 2022 squad while supplementing with a few free-agent acquisitions. The club’s staff and squad clearly have a goal to grow following a promising debut season, during which they were at times one of the league’s most dangerous. The match marks their second preseason test, with the first coming February 4 against the San Jose Earthquakes – a 1-2 defeat. They hung with the South Bay side for a majority of the contest and threatened frequently on the offensive end, but wound up falling on a late winner by their northern neighbors.

Training Camp Digest: Week 3

Three hard weeks of work – marking the midway point of training camp – are now behind Republic FC as it prepares for the 2023 season.

The on-field work continued this past week, with stiff competition against two more MLS sides. Republic FC’s time at the Desert Showcase ended with a Douglas Martinez goal to draw level with Real Salt Lake in a test against an in-rhythm club. And Wednesday’s matchup allowed Mark Briggs to get more minutes into the legs and lungs of the squad, with a strong showing that saw two units log valuable minutes. Martinez would strike again, this time rippling the back of the net with an early penalty. After Austin rolled in a line change featuring its biggest names, the Texas club would find a late equalizer, but not the upper hand.

.@Douglas_M19 scores the PK for the 1-0 lead and his second preseason goal. pic.twitter.com/uB6iSHqLk3
— Sacramento Republic FC (@SacRepublicFC) February 16, 2023

Out of both games, Republic FC learned valuable lessons for the season ahead, and continued to sharpen its skills (and more) as the season opener quickly gets closer.

“It’s been intense,” defender Damia Viader said of training camp on the latest episode of The Breakaway. “But this is the time to get better and that’s what we’re looking to do.”

Important work still lies ahead for the club as the season approaches. With three weeks down, the focus will continue to refine to be ready for Opening Night. The Indomitable Club will use the next three weeks at home to test, challenge, and improve before the games count.

On Saturday, Sacramento will see its first league opponent in a preseason matchup. Mark Briggs’ Men head to Seaside to face off with Monterey Bay F.C. at Cardinale Stadium in a matinee match. The contest is the first of two they’ll play against the Union this preseason, with the other set for March 4 at Heart Health Park.

With preparations underway, as well as the quick turn from an 11-day road trip, the goal will be to continue to build on the momentum gained in Tucson and Austin. New faces will continue to integrate, with more players being exposed to game situations and the task at hand.

Only 22 more days until three points are on the line and the chase for silverware is truly underway.

Republic FC to Enter 2023 U.S. Open Cup in Second Round, Opponent to be Determined

Today, U.S. Soccer announced the pairings and hosting scenarios for the Second Round of the 2023 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. As a result of the draw, Republic FC will host the winner of the First Round March 22 match between Crossfire Premier (NPSL) and Project 51O (USL League Two).

Additional details including match date and time, and single game tickets will be announced in the coming weeks – all full season Indomitable Members will also receive tickets to the match as a part of their season ticket package. For more information on memberships, visit SacRepublicFC.com/Memberships.

Republic FC has played the Open Cup every year since the club’s inception, posting an overall record of 19 wins and seven losses. In 2022, the club stepped into the national sports spotlight and made headlines around the soccer world when it became the first lower-division side to reach the tournament’s Final in 14 years. The historic run was highlighted by three consecutive victories of MLS sides, including a thrilling Semifinal penalty shootout against four-time Open Cup Champion Sporting Kansas City in front of a sold-out crowd at Heart Health Park.

This year’s tournament is the 108^th edition of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup – U.S. Soccer’s National Championship. The tournament has crowned a champion every year since 1914, except for 2020 and 2021 when play was suspended due to COVID-19. It is the oldest ongoing domestic soccer competition and is a single-game, knockout tournament that is open to all professional and amateur teams affiliated with U.S. Soccer. The winner of the 2023 U.S. Open Cup will receive $300,000 in prize money, a berth in the 2024 CONCACAF Champions League and have its name engraved on one of the oldest nationally-contested trophies in American sports. The full tournament schedule and more information are available at USSoccer.com/us-open-cup.

On March 4, Sacramento Republic FC will close out its 2023 preseason schedule at Heart Health Park against Monterey Bay F.C. Tickets to the match are on sale now at SacRepublicFC.com/tickets, and include access to Fan Fest after the final whistle. The post-match event will give all supporters the opportunity to meet and interact with players, hear from the club’s coaching and technical staff at a special Q&A session, and take part in fun on-field experiences with the team. All in attendance will receive a free club poster for autographs.

The 2023 USL Championship season will begin the following Saturday – March 11, when the squad travels to El Paso Locomotive FC, before returning to Sacramento on March 18 for the 2023 home opener at Heart Health Park. For the full 2023 schedule, visit SacRepublicFC.com/Schedule.

Defender Johnny Fenwick Joins Republic FC

Today, Sacramento Republic FC announced the club has signed defender Johnny Fenwick for the 2023 USL Championship season. He will be added to the club’s roster, pending league and federation approval. Per club policy, the terms of the contract were not disclosed.

“Johnny brings USL Championship experience and leadership to our backline,” said Republic FC President and General Manager Todd Dunivant. “His qualities in the locker room and as a teammate are what stand out most about him, and we think he will be a great fit for our group.”

Fenwick comes to Sacramento after a strong 2022 USL Championship campaign with Eastern Conference club FC Tulsa. In his second season with the Oklahoma club, he set new career highs in appearances (31) and minutes (1,982), while ranking second on his squad in clearances (95). He helped the Eastern Conference side to the USL Championship playoffs in 2021 after joining the club mid-way through the season, starting each of the club’s final six matches of the year. Prior to joining Tulsa, he made his professional debut in 2019 with San Antonio FC, and featured for Las Vegas Lights FC in the abbreviated 2020 season, where he appeared in every match and wore the captain’s armband three times.

A native of Newcastle, England, the defender played his youth career in the academy systems of Premier League side Newcastle United FC, and English Football League One side Sheffield Wednesday. He moved to the U.S. to join the Men’s soccer program at High Point University in 2015, where his 78 appearances upon graduation ranked fourth in Division I program history. With the Panthers, he helped his squad to four straight Big South tournament appearances, as well as the program’s first-ever NCAA tournament appearance his senior season as an At-Large selection. He was named an NCAA All-American in 2018, and earned First Team All-Big South in consecutive seasons from 2016-2017.

Republic FC fans will get their first chance to see the 2023 squad in action on Saturday, March 4, when the club hosts local rival Monterey Bay F.C. for a preseason friendly at Heart Health Park. Tickets to the match are on sale now at SacRepublicFC.com/tickets, and include access to Fan Fest after the final whistle – allowing Indomitable members, fans, and supporters alike the opportunity to meet and interact with players face to face, hear from the club’s coaching and technical staff at a special Q&A session, and take part in fun, exclusive on-field experiences with the team. The club’s 10^th USL Championship campaign will kick off on the road the following Saturday, March 11, when the squad travels to Texas to take on El Paso Locomotive FC.

Republic FC and Mission Tiger Partner to Increase Access to Youth Sports and Promote Importance of Active Lifestyles

Today, Republic FC announced that the club has teamed up with Mission Tiger to encourage children to lead active, healthy lives by increasing access to sports and providing additional soccer programming to youth throughout the Sacramento region. The partnership will extend Republic FC’s commitment to making a healthier place for all by supporting and investing in community wellness initiatives.

“As a part of our core value of fostering a Unified Community, Republic FC is dedicated to uplifting our local youth, which includes encouraging children to live active, healthy lifestyles,” said Republic FC Chief Revenue Officer Dustin Vicari. “Participation in sports can have a tremendous impact on a child’s life, and we are thrilled to team up with Mission Tiger to support the next generation of athletes right here in Sacramento.”

“Youth sports have so many benefits – not only do they keep kids active and healthy, but they also create friendships and memories that often last for life,” said Ray Kwan, Account Executive. “This is an exciting opportunity for us to partner with Republic FC to bring youth soccer opportunities directly to the Sacramento region, giving students everywhere the chance to play like tigers.”

To kick off the partnership with Republic FC, Mission Tiger will work with the Republic FC Foundation and Raley’s to fund a new futsal court at a middle school in San Juan Unified School District —providing a new, safe space for the community to play in Citrus Heights.

“We are honored that one of our middle schools will be chosen as the site for this new project with Republic FC and Mission Tiger,” said Natalia Aguirre-Mazzi, Supervisor of Community Partnerships & Volunteers. “Our district values the tremendous role we play in helping to shape the future of our community, and creating a new space for our students to get involved in sports will provide us with another way to enable this community to thrive, in and out of the classroom.”

The Mission Tiger Court will mark the 11^th futsal project developed by Republic FC and its partners. Since 2019, the club has identified unused and dilapidated spaces to be transformed into thriving, vibrant facilities that inspire communities to focus on health through sports, create connections through teamwork, and provide safe, fun spaces to gather. Republic FC has continued to work closely with community partners to provide year-round programming at the courts, hosting free youth clinics, cultural festivals, and more.

Mission Tiger will also serve as the presenting partner of Republic FC’s Youth Training Programs, helping to provide a top-notch professional training experience for players of all ages and abilities. These programs provide a fun and exciting environment for youth players to work on their technical skills with guidance from the region’s top coaches. Through the partnership, several local players will receive a scholarship to participate in a Republic FC Youth Training Programs summer session free of charge, providing even more opportunities for young athletes to work on their soccer skills and foster a love for the game. Republic FC youth camps and clinics are scheduled throughout the year at various locations across the region. To learn more and apply for a Mission Tiger Summer Camp Scholarship, visit SacRepublicFC.com/Camps-Clinics.

At every home game during the 2023 season, the youngest Indomitable Fans can get their heart rate up in the Mission Tiger Kids Zone at Heart Health Park. With the club’s Youth Training Programs coaches on hand, the next generation of soccer players can work on their skills on the mini-pitch. Other fun activities—including soccer darts, performances, and arts & crafts—will be available throughout the season as well, along with kid-friendly food and beverage options.

Since 2019, Tony the Tiger and Kellogg’s Frosted Flakes have embarked on a mission to give more kids access to the benefits of youth sports through Mission Tiger. With unique and innovative partnerships—including a $1 donation for every box of Kellogg’s Frosted Flakes purchased and a dollar match for projects funded through DonorsChoose—Mission Tiger has helped more than 1 million youth across the country by repaving courts, refurbishing sports facilities, providing new training equipment, and more.