A-League (1995–2004)
Encyclopedia
The A-League was a professional men's soccer league which featured teams from both the United States
and Canada
. The A-League emerged out of the restructured American Professional Soccer League
in 1995 and operated until 2004, after which it was re-branded the USL First Division
. During its first season, in 1995
, it was the de facto
top professional soccer league in both countries, before it was replaced at the top of the United States soccer pyramid by Major League Soccer
in 1996.
changed its name to the A-League during its final two seasons in 1995
and 1996
. Meanwhile, in 1995, the United States Interregional Soccer League (USISL), the de-facto second tier of American soccer at the time, and which had initially confined itself to organising regional leagues, began organising on a national level.
The USISL Pro League, which had been at the second tier of the pyramid in 1995, split into two leagues in 1996; the best teams joined the new USISL Select League
, while the remainder (plus expansion teams) remained in the USISL Pro League, which retained its Division III status. Both the A-League and the new USISL Select League
had Division II status in 1996.
In an attempt to counteract the fact that a number of top A-League players had left to join MLS in 1995 and 1996 six of the seven remaining A-League teams - Montreal Impact
, Colorado Foxes
, Seattle Sounders
, Rochester Raging Rhinos
, Vancouver 86ers and Atlanta Ruckus, plus two planned A-League expansion teams (Toronto Lynx
and Hershey Wildcats
) merged with the USISL Select League to form a consolidated Division II league before the 1997
season, and the resulting merged league retained the A-League name.
The USISL eventually became the United Soccer Leagues
(USL) in 1999, and the USL continued to use the A-League name until 2004
, when it became the USL First Division
.
It remained the top league of the Canadian soccer pyramid
throughout its existence, with Canadian teams vying for the Canadian Championship
(which awarded the Voyageurs Cup
), until 2004 which saw Toronto FC
debut in MLS
, subsequently splitting Division 1 status in Canada between the two leagues.
United States
The United States of America is a federal constitutional republic comprising fifty states and a federal district...
and Canada
Canada
Canada is a North American country consisting of ten provinces and three territories. Located in the northern part of the continent, it extends from the Atlantic Ocean in the east to the Pacific Ocean in the west, and northward into the Arctic Ocean...
. The A-League emerged out of the restructured American Professional Soccer League
American Professional Soccer League
The American Professional Soccer League is a former professional men's soccer league which featured teams from both the United States and Canada. It was the first outdoor soccer league to feature teams from throughout the United States since the demise of the original North American Soccer League...
in 1995 and operated until 2004, after which it was re-branded the USL First Division
USL First Division
The United Soccer Leagues First Division was a professional men's soccer league in the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico....
. During its first season, in 1995
1995 A-League
-Overview:In 1995, the American Professional Soccer League, which was the de facto U.S. second division, changed its name to the A-League. The league had ended its 1994 season seven teams and intended to expand to ten for the 1995 season. These plans were stymied when the Fort Lauderdale...
, it was the de facto
De facto
De facto is a Latin expression that means "concerning fact." In law, it often means "in practice but not necessarily ordained by law" or "in practice or actuality, but not officially established." It is commonly used in contrast to de jure when referring to matters of law, governance, or...
top professional soccer league in both countries, before it was replaced at the top of the United States soccer pyramid by Major League Soccer
Major League Soccer
Major League Soccer is a professional soccer league based in the United States and sanctioned by the United States Soccer Federation . The league is composed of 19 teams — 16 in the U.S. and 3 in Canada...
in 1996.
History
The origins of the league are complex. The old American Professional Soccer LeagueAmerican Professional Soccer League
The American Professional Soccer League is a former professional men's soccer league which featured teams from both the United States and Canada. It was the first outdoor soccer league to feature teams from throughout the United States since the demise of the original North American Soccer League...
changed its name to the A-League during its final two seasons in 1995
1995 A-League
-Overview:In 1995, the American Professional Soccer League, which was the de facto U.S. second division, changed its name to the A-League. The league had ended its 1994 season seven teams and intended to expand to ten for the 1995 season. These plans were stymied when the Fort Lauderdale...
and 1996
1996 A-League
-Regular season:* Win = 3 points* Shootout win = 1 point* Loss = 0 points-Semifinal 1:-Semifinal 2:-Final:-Points leaders:-Honors:* MVP: Wolde Harris* Leading goal scorer: Doug Miller...
. Meanwhile, in 1995, the United States Interregional Soccer League (USISL), the de-facto second tier of American soccer at the time, and which had initially confined itself to organising regional leagues, began organising on a national level.
The USISL Pro League, which had been at the second tier of the pyramid in 1995, split into two leagues in 1996; the best teams joined the new USISL Select League
USISL Select League
The USISL Select League was a professional men's soccer league which featured teams from the United States, which existed for just one year in 1996...
, while the remainder (plus expansion teams) remained in the USISL Pro League, which retained its Division III status. Both the A-League and the new USISL Select League
1996 USISL Select League
-League standings: GP W L SW GF GA PTS EASTERN CONFERENCE North Atlantic Division Long Island Rough Riders 18 11 7 0 39 31 33 Richmond Kickers 18 10 8 0 34 24 28...
had Division II status in 1996.
In an attempt to counteract the fact that a number of top A-League players had left to join MLS in 1995 and 1996 six of the seven remaining A-League teams - Montreal Impact
Montreal Impact
Montreal Impact was a Canadian professional soccer club based in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Founded in 1992, the team played in the North American Soccer League , the second tier of the American Soccer Pyramid until the 2011 season. The owner Joey Saputo now operates the MLS team Montreal ImpactThe...
, Colorado Foxes
Colorado Foxes
The Colorado Foxes were a professional soccer team, based in Commerce City, Colorado, that played in the APSL between 1990 and 1997. The Foxes won two APSL titles, in 1992 and 1993. When Major League Soccer started and the Colorado Rapids became the region's premier team, the Foxes tried to stay...
, Seattle Sounders
Seattle Sounders (USL)
Seattle Sounders was an American professional soccer team founded in 1994 as a member of the American Professional Soccer League. In 1997, the team became a member of the USL First Division, the second tier of the United States soccer pyramid, until 2008, after which the majority of the team's...
, Rochester Raging Rhinos
Rochester Raging Rhinos
The Rochester Rhinos are an American professional soccer team based in Rochester, New York, United States. Founded in 1996, the team plays in the National Division of the new USL Professional Division, the third tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, having self-relegated from the USSF D2 Pro League...
, Vancouver 86ers and Atlanta Ruckus, plus two planned A-League expansion teams (Toronto Lynx
Toronto Lynx
Toronto Lynx is a Canadian soccer team based in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Founded in 1997, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Great Lakes Division of the Central Conference....
and Hershey Wildcats
Hershey Wildcats
Hershey Wildcats were a professional soccer team, based in Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA, that played in the USL A-League between 1997 and 2001. The team was owned by Hershey Entertainment and Resorts Company...
) merged with the USISL Select League to form a consolidated Division II league before the 1997
1997 A-League
The 1997 USISL A-League season.-Overview:At the end of the 1996 A-League season, the U.S. second division A-League collapsed. Five of the six teams in the A-League then joined the USISL which had three leagues in 1996, beginning with the third division USISL Select League. With the collapse of...
season, and the resulting merged league retained the A-League name.
The USISL eventually became the United Soccer Leagues
United Soccer Leagues
The United Soccer Leagues is the organizer of several soccer leagues with teams in the United States, Canada and the Caribbean. It includes men's and women's leagues, both professional and amateur. Leagues currently organized are the USL Pro, the USL Premier Development League, the W-League, and...
(USL) in 1999, and the USL continued to use the A-League name until 2004
2004 A-League
-Western Conference:-Eastern Conference:-Playoffs:...
, when it became the USL First Division
USL First Division
The United Soccer Leagues First Division was a professional men's soccer league in the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico....
.
It remained the top league of the Canadian soccer pyramid
Canadian soccer pyramid
The Canadian soccer pyramid is a term used in soccer to describe the structure of the league system in Canada. The governing body of soccer in the country is the Canadian Soccer Association , which oversees the system and domestic cups but does not operate any of its component leagues...
throughout its existence, with Canadian teams vying for the Canadian Championship
Canadian Championship
The Canadian Championship—known as the Nutrilite Canadian Championship for sponsorship reasons—is an annual soccer tournament contested by premier Canadian professional teams...
(which awarded the Voyageurs Cup
Voyageurs Cup
The Voyageurs Cup is the only trophy for top-level professional soccer in Canada. From 2002 to 2007, the cup was awarded annually to the Canadian team finishing with the best record in the USL First Division, from regular season matches against other Canadian teams in the league, and from 2008 the...
), until 2004 which saw Toronto FC
Toronto FC
Toronto FC is a Canadian professional soccer club based in Toronto, Ontario which competes in Major League Soccer , the top professional soccer league in the United States and Canada....
debut in MLS
Major League Soccer
Major League Soccer is a professional soccer league based in the United States and sanctioned by the United States Soccer Federation . The league is composed of 19 teams — 16 in the U.S. and 3 in Canada...
, subsequently splitting Division 1 status in Canada between the two leagues.
A-League teams
- Atlanta SilverbacksAtlanta SilverbacksAtlanta Silverbacks is an American professional soccer team based in Atlanta, Georgia, United States. Founded in 1995, the team plays in the North American Soccer League , the second tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, having previously sat out the 2009 and 2010 seasons while the ownership...
(1995–2004) (as Atlanta Ruckus 1995-1998) - Boston BulldogsBoston Bulldogs (soccer)The Boston Bulldogs were a soccer club originally founded in 1996 as the Worcester Wildfire. The team debuted in the USISL and would play in the A-League from 1997 to 2000...
(1997–2000) (as Worcester Wildfire 1997-1998) - Calgary Mustangs (2002–2004) (as Calgary Storm 2002-2003)
- California JaguarsCalifornia JaguarsCalifornia Jaguars were an American soccer team that played in Salinas, California at the Salinas Sports Complex.They joined the USISL in 1995 as the Monterey Bay Jaguars, but changed the name a year later...
(1995–1998) - Carolina DynamoCarolina DynamoCarolina Dynamo is an American soccer team based in Greensboro, North Carolina, United States. Founded in 1993, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the South Atlantic Division of the Eastern Conference.The team plays its home...
(1997) - Charleston BatteryCharleston BatteryCharleston Battery is an American professional soccer team based in Charleston, South Carolina, United States. Founded in 1993, the team plays in the American Division of the new USL Professional Division, the third tier of the American Soccer Pyramid....
(1997–2004) - Charlotte EaglesCharlotte EaglesCharlotte Eagles is an American professional soccer team based in Charlotte, North Carolina, United States. Founded in 1991, the team plays in the American Division of the new USL Professional Division, the third tier of the American Soccer Pyramid....
(2001–2003) - Cincinnati RiverhawksCincinnati RiverhawksThe Cincinnati Riverhawks were a professional soccer team that debuted in the USISL Premier Development League in 1997 and joined the A-League from 1998 to 2003...
(1998–2003) - Connecticut WolvesConnecticut WolvesThe Connecticut Wolves were a soccer club that competed in the United Soccer Leagues from 1993 to 2002. Based in New Britain, Connecticut, and playing in Veteran's Stadium, the club started in the D-3 Pro League before moving to the A-League in 1997.-History:...
(1995–2001) - Edmonton AviatorsEdmonton AviatorsThe Edmonton Aviators were a soccer club based in Edmonton, Alberta. The club was founded in 2003 as a member of the United Soccer League's North American A-League and folded after playing only one season, 2004. Midway through the season, with the club in financial trouble, the league took it over...
(2004) - El Paso PatriotsEl Paso PatriotsChivas El Paso Patriots is an American soccer team based in El Paso, Texas, United States. Founded in 1989, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Mid South Division of the Southern Conference.The team plays its home games at...
(1997–2003) - Hershey WildcatsHershey WildcatsHershey Wildcats were a professional soccer team, based in Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA, that played in the USL A-League between 1997 and 2001. The team was owned by Hershey Entertainment and Resorts Company...
(1997–2001) - Indiana BlastIndiana BlastIndiana Blast were an American soccer team, founded in 1997. The team was a member of the United Soccer Leagues, and played in the D-3 Pro League, the A-League and the USL Premier Development League, until folding at the end of the 2004 season....
(1999–2003) - Jacksonville CyclonesJacksonville CyclonesThe Jacksonville Cyclones are a now-defunct USL A-League soccer team, based in Jacksonville, Florida, that formed in 1995. The team folded in 1999 shortly after the death of their manager Dennis Viollet, the former Manchester United and England striker....
(1997–1999) - Lehigh Valley SteamLehigh Valley SteamLehigh Valley Steam was a soccer club that competed in the A-League in 1999. Based in Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania, the club has problems securing a home stadium and folded after a single season. The club featured future U.S. national team player Kerry Zavagnin and was coached by Daryl...
(1999) - Long Island Rough RidersLong Island Rough RidersLong Island Rough Riders is an American soccer team based in South Huntington, New York, United States. Founded in 1994, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Mid Atlantic Division of the Eastern Conference.The team plays its...
(1997–2001) - Maryland ManiaMaryland ManiaMaryland Mania was a soccer club based in Baltimore Maryland that competed in the A-League for one year, in 1999.-Year-by-year:-Coach:Justin Fashanu was hired to coach the Mania, but fled the United States during the pre-season when he was accused of sexually assaulting an underage boy. He was...
(1999) - Milwaukee RampageMilwaukee RampageThe Milwaukee Rampage is a defunct American soccer franchise, which played in Milwaukee, Wisconsin in the A-League. The Rampage folded in 2002 because of financial problems, despite winning the A-league championship that year, as well as in 1997. The Rampage was founded in 1994 as a member of the...
(1997–2002) - Milwaukee Wave UnitedMilwaukee Wave UnitedThe Milwaukee Wave United was an American professional soccer team, which last played in the A-League, the American second division.The Wave United was formed and joined the A-League after the Milwaukee Rampage folded in 2002...
(2003–2004) - Minnesota ThunderMinnesota ThunderMinnesota Thunder was an American professional soccer team based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States. Founded in 1990, the team played in the USL First Division , the second tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, until 2009. The team played its home games at the National Sports Center in nearby...
(1997–2004) - MLS Project 40 (1998–2000)
- Montreal ImpactMontreal ImpactMontreal Impact was a Canadian professional soccer club based in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Founded in 1992, the team played in the North American Soccer League , the second tier of the American Soccer Pyramid until the 2011 season. The owner Joey Saputo now operates the MLS team Montreal ImpactThe...
(1995–2004)
- Nashville MetrosNashville MetrosNashville Metros is an American soccer team based in Nashville, Tennessee, United States. Founded in 1989, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Southeast Division of the Southern Conference...
(1997–2001) (as Tennessee Rhythm 1999-2000) - New Orleans StormNew Orleans StormThe New Orleans Riverboat Gamblers was an American soccer club that competed in the USISL from 1993 to 1999. Based in New Orleans, Louisiana, the club was renamed the New Orleans Storm in 1998. The team folded after the 1999 season.-History:...
(1997–1999) (as New Orleans Riverboat Gamblers 1997) - New York CentaursNew York CentaursThe New York Centaurs were an A-League professional soccer club, based in New York City. The team played only one season in 1995. The New York Fever of the USISL Pro League, debuted in 1994, playing two seasons in the league before merging with the Centaurs organization in 1996...
(1995) - New York Fever (1996)
- Orange County WavesOrange County WavesOrange County Waves may refer to two football teams:* Orange County Blue Star , a team currently playing in the USL PDL that was known as "Orange County Waves" and "Orange County Zodiac" when they played in the USL A-League...
(2000) (as Orange County Zodiac (1997–1999)) - Orlando SundogsOrlando SundogsThe Orlando Sundogs were an American soccer club that played in the A-League in 1997. The team nearly folded before the end of the season, but were purchased by the Atlanta Ruckus. During the off season, the team tried to find a suitable venue for an A-League team outside the Florida Citrus Bowl,...
(1997) - Pittsburgh RiverhoundsPittsburgh RiverhoundsPittsburgh Riverhounds is an American professional soccer team based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States. Founded in 1999, the team plays in the National Division of the new USL Professional Division, the third tier of the American Soccer Pyramid....
(1999–2003) - Portland TimbersPortland Timbers (USL)Portland Timbers was an American professional soccer team based in Portland, Oregon, United States. Founded in 2001, the team played in various leagues at the second tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, including the USL First Division and the USSF Division 2 Professional League, until the end of...
(2001–2004) - Puerto Rico IslandersPuerto Rico IslandersPuerto Rico Islanders is a Puerto Rican professional football team based in Bayamón, Puerto Rico. Founded in 2003, the team plays in the North American Soccer League , the second tier of the American Soccer Pyramid....
(2004) - Raleigh Capital Express (1997–2000) (as Raleigh Flyers 1997-1998; Raleigh ExpressRaleigh ExpressThe Raleigh Express was a soccer club that competed in the United Soccer Leagues from 1993 to 2000. Based in Raleigh, North Carolina, the club started as the Raleigh Flyers in the USISL before moving to the A-League in 1997. In 1999, the club was renamed the Express, and in 2000, became the Raleigh...
1999) - Richmond KickersRichmond KickersThe Richmond Kickers are an American professional soccer club based in Richmond, Virginia, United States. Founded in 1993, the team plays in the American Division of the USL Professional Division, the third tier of the American Soccer Pyramid...
(1997–2004) - Rochester Raging RhinosRochester Raging RhinosThe Rochester Rhinos are an American professional soccer team based in Rochester, New York, United States. Founded in 1996, the team plays in the National Division of the new USL Professional Division, the third tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, having self-relegated from the USSF D2 Pro League...
(1997–2004) - Sacramento GeckosSacramento GeckosThe Sacramento Geckos were an American soccer club that competed in the United Soccer Leagues from 1997 to 1999. The club was founded as the Albuquerque Geckos in Albuquerque, New Mexico in 1997, before being sold and moved to Sacramento, California for the 1999 season.The Geckos had great success...
(1998–1999) (as Albuquerque Geckos (1998)) - San Diego FlashSan Diego FlashSan Diego Flash is an American soccer team based in San Diego, California, United States. Founded in 1998, the team returned to competitive play in 2011 when it made its debut in the Southwest Flight of the West Division of the National Premier Soccer League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer...
(1995–2001) (as Colorado FoxesColorado FoxesThe Colorado Foxes were a professional soccer team, based in Commerce City, Colorado, that played in the APSL between 1990 and 1997. The Foxes won two APSL titles, in 1992 and 1993. When Major League Soccer started and the Colorado Rapids became the region's premier team, the Foxes tried to stay...
(1995–1997)) - San Francisco Bay SealsSan Francisco Bay SealsSan Francisco Seals was an American soccer team based in San Francisco, California, United States. Founded in 1992, the team played in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, until 2008, when the franchise left the league.The team played its home games...
(1998–2000) (as Bay Area Seals (2000)) - Seattle SoundersSeattle Sounders (USL)Seattle Sounders was an American professional soccer team founded in 1994 as a member of the American Professional Soccer League. In 1997, the team became a member of the USL First Division, the second tier of the United States soccer pyramid, until 2008, after which the majority of the team's...
(1995–2004) - Staten Island VipersStaten Island VipersThe Staten Island Vipers were a soccer club that competed in the USL A-League in 1998 and 1999. The club was based on Staten Island, New York City. The team played its games at Tottenville High School and Wagner College...
(1998–1999) - Syracuse Salty DogsSyracuse Salty DogsThe Syracuse Salty Dogs were a professional men's soccer team based in Syracuse, New York. The club were a member of the USL A-League, playing only two seasons from 2003-2004. The club was owned and operated by the Syracuse Pro Sports Group and played most home games at P&C Stadium...
(2003–2004) - Toronto LynxToronto LynxToronto Lynx is a Canadian soccer team based in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Founded in 1997, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Great Lakes Division of the Central Conference....
(1997–2004) - Vancouver Whitecaps (1995–2004) (as Vancouver 86ers (1995–2000))
- Virginia Beach MarinersVirginia Beach MarinersThe Virginia Beach Mariners were an American soccer club, who formerly played in the USL First Division of the United Soccer Leagues, the second division in the US Soccer hierarchy behind Major League Soccer...
(1997–2004) (as Hampton Roads Mariners (1997–2000; 2002))
Regular Season
| Season | Winner | Record (W-L-T) | Points | Playoff | Results (W-L-T) | Runners-Up | Record (W-L-T) | Points | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2004 2004 A-League -Western Conference:-Eastern Conference:-Playoffs:... |
Portland Timbers Portland Timbers (USL) Portland Timbers was an American professional soccer team based in Portland, Oregon, United States. Founded in 2001, the team played in various leagues at the second tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, including the USL First Division and the USSF Division 2 Professional League, until the end of... |
18-7-3 | 57 | Lost in conference semifinal series overtime | 1-1-0 | Montreal Impact Montreal Impact Montreal Impact was a Canadian professional soccer club based in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Founded in 1992, the team played in the North American Soccer League , the second tier of the American Soccer Pyramid until the 2011 season. The owner Joey Saputo now operates the MLS team Montreal ImpactThe... |
17-6-5 | 56 | |
| 2003 2003 A-League -Northeast Division:-Southeast Division:-Central Division:-Pacific Division:-Northeast Division:-----Southeast Division:-Central Division:-Pacific Division:-Eastern Conference final:-Western Conference final:-----Final:... |
Milwaukee Wave United Milwaukee Wave United The Milwaukee Wave United was an American professional soccer team, which last played in the A-League, the American second division.The Wave United was formed and joined the A-League after the Milwaukee Rampage folded in 2002... |
18-10-0 | 54 | Lost in division final series overtime | 1-1-0 | Montreal Impact Montreal Impact Montreal Impact was a Canadian professional soccer club based in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Founded in 1992, the team played in the North American Soccer League , the second tier of the American Soccer Pyramid until the 2011 season. The owner Joey Saputo now operates the MLS team Montreal ImpactThe... |
16-6-6 | 54 | |
| 2002 2002 A-League -Northeast Division:-Southeast Division:-Central Division:* Cincinnati lost three point for using an ineligible player-Pacific Division:-Playoff bracket:-Playoff first round:* Montreal defeated Charlotte 0-1, 1-0... |
Seattle Sounders Seattle Sounders (USL) Seattle Sounders was an American professional soccer team founded in 1994 as a member of the American Professional Soccer League. In 1997, the team became a member of the USL First Division, the second tier of the United States soccer pyramid, until 2008, after which the majority of the team's... |
23-4-1 | 107 | Lost in conference semifinal series | 0-2-0 | Charleston Battery Charleston Battery Charleston Battery is an American professional soccer team based in Charleston, South Carolina, United States. Founded in 1993, the team plays in the American Division of the new USL Professional Division, the third tier of the American Soccer Pyramid.... |
19-3-6 | 89 | |
| 2001 2001 A-League -History:The addition of the Portland Timbers this season saw the renewal of a Pacific Northwest rivalry between them, the Seattle Sounders and Vancouver Whitecaps which dated back to the North American Soccer League. Although Vancouver was not new to the league, this was the first season they... |
Richmond Kickers Richmond Kickers The Richmond Kickers are an American professional soccer club based in Richmond, Virginia, United States. Founded in 1993, the team plays in the American Division of the USL Professional Division, the third tier of the American Soccer Pyramid... |
16-7-3 | 76 | Lost in quarterfinal series | 0-2-0 | Hershey Wildcats Hershey Wildcats Hershey Wildcats were a professional soccer team, based in Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA, that played in the USL A-League between 1997 and 2001. The team was owned by Hershey Entertainment and Resorts Company... |
16-7-3 | 75 | |
| 2000 2000 A-League -Northeast Division:-Atlantic Division:-Central Division:-Pacific Division:-Eastern Conference:-Western Conference:-----Eastern semifinal 1:-Eastern semifinal 2:-Western semifinal 1:-Western semifinal 2:... |
Minnesota Thunder Minnesota Thunder Minnesota Thunder was an American professional soccer team based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States. Founded in 1990, the team played in the USL First Division , the second tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, until 2009. The team played its home games at the National Sports Center in nearby... |
20-4-4 | 99 | Lost in final | 4-2-0 | Milwaukee Rampage Milwaukee Rampage The Milwaukee Rampage is a defunct American soccer franchise, which played in Milwaukee, Wisconsin in the A-League. The Rampage folded in 2002 because of financial problems, despite winning the A-league championship that year, as well as in 1997. The Rampage was founded in 1994 as a member of the... |
18-9-1 | 89 | |
| 1999 1999 A-League -Northeast Division:-Atlantic Division:-Central Division:-Pacific Division:-Eastern Conference:-Western Conference:-Eastern Conference Semifinal 1:-Eastern Conference Semifinal 2:-Western Conference Semifinal 1:... |
Rochester Raging Rhinos Rochester Raging Rhinos The Rochester Rhinos are an American professional soccer team based in Rochester, New York, United States. Founded in 1996, the team plays in the National Division of the new USL Professional Division, the third tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, having self-relegated from the USSF D2 Pro League... |
22-6 | 92 | Lost in final | 5-3 | San Diego Flash San Diego Flash San Diego Flash is an American soccer team based in San Diego, California, United States. Founded in 1998, the team returned to competitive play in 2011 when it made its debut in the Southwest Flight of the West Division of the National Premier Soccer League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer... |
20-8 | 90 | |
| 1998 1998 A-League -Northeast Division:-Atlantic Division:-Central Division:-Pacific Division:-Eastern Conference:-Western Conference:-Eastern Conference semifinal 1:-Eastern Conference semifinal 2:-Western Conference semifinal 1:... |
Rochester Raging Rhinos Rochester Raging Rhinos The Rochester Rhinos are an American professional soccer team based in Rochester, New York, United States. Founded in 1996, the team plays in the National Division of the new USL Professional Division, the third tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, having self-relegated from the USSF D2 Pro League... |
24-4 | 70 | Won Championship | 6-0 | San Diego Flash San Diego Flash San Diego Flash is an American soccer team based in San Diego, California, United States. Founded in 1998, the team returned to competitive play in 2011 when it made its debut in the Southwest Flight of the West Division of the National Premier Soccer League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer... |
21-7 | 61 | |
| 1997 1997 A-League The 1997 USISL A-League season.-Overview:At the end of the 1996 A-League season, the U.S. second division A-League collapsed. Five of the six teams in the A-League then joined the USISL which had three leagues in 1996, beginning with the third division USISL Select League. With the collapse of... |
Montreal Impact Montreal Impact Montreal Impact was a Canadian professional soccer club based in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Founded in 1992, the team played in the North American Soccer League , the second tier of the American Soccer Pyramid until the 2011 season. The owner Joey Saputo now operates the MLS team Montreal ImpactThe... |
21-7 | 61 | Lost in conference final series | 3-2 | Hershey Wildcats Hershey Wildcats Hershey Wildcats were a professional soccer team, based in Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA, that played in the USL A-League between 1997 and 2001. The team was owned by Hershey Entertainment and Resorts Company... |
19-9 | 55 | |
| 1996 1996 A-League -Regular season:* Win = 3 points* Shootout win = 1 point* Loss = 0 points-Semifinal 1:-Semifinal 2:-Final:-Points leaders:-Honors:* MVP: Wolde Harris* Leading goal scorer: Doug Miller... |
Montreal Impact Montreal Impact Montreal Impact was a Canadian professional soccer club based in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Founded in 1992, the team played in the North American Soccer League , the second tier of the American Soccer Pyramid until the 2011 season. The owner Joey Saputo now operates the MLS team Montreal ImpactThe... |
21-6 | 55 | Lost in semifinal | 0-1 | Colorado Foxes Colorado Foxes The Colorado Foxes were a professional soccer team, based in Commerce City, Colorado, that played in the APSL between 1990 and 1997. The Foxes won two APSL titles, in 1992 and 1993. When Major League Soccer started and the Colorado Rapids became the region's premier team, the Foxes tried to stay... |
16-11 | 44 | |
| 1995 1995 A-League -Overview:In 1995, the American Professional Soccer League, which was the de facto U.S. second division, changed its name to the A-League. The league had ended its 1994 season seven teams and intended to expand to ten for the 1995 season. These plans were stymied when the Fort Lauderdale... |
Montreal Impact Montreal Impact Montreal Impact was a Canadian professional soccer club based in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Founded in 1992, the team played in the North American Soccer League , the second tier of the American Soccer Pyramid until the 2011 season. The owner Joey Saputo now operates the MLS team Montreal ImpactThe... |
17-7 | 51 | Lost in semifinal series | 1-2 | Seattle Sounders Seattle Sounders (USL) Seattle Sounders was an American professional soccer team founded in 1994 as a member of the American Professional Soccer League. In 1997, the team became a member of the USL First Division, the second tier of the United States soccer pyramid, until 2008, after which the majority of the team's... |
18-6 | 51 | |
Play Off Season
| Season | Winner | Score | Runner-up | Top Goalscorer | Team | Goals |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2004 2004 A-League -Western Conference:-Eastern Conference:-Playoffs:... |
Montreal Impact Montreal Impact Montreal Impact was a Canadian professional soccer club based in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Founded in 1992, the team played in the North American Soccer League , the second tier of the American Soccer Pyramid until the 2011 season. The owner Joey Saputo now operates the MLS team Montreal ImpactThe... |
2-0 | Seattle Sounders Seattle Sounders (USL) Seattle Sounders was an American professional soccer team founded in 1994 as a member of the American Professional Soccer League. In 1997, the team became a member of the USL First Division, the second tier of the United States soccer pyramid, until 2008, after which the majority of the team's... |
Alan Gordon Alan Gordon (soccer) Alan Gordon is an American soccer player who currently plays for San Jose Earthquakes in Major League Soccer.-College:... and Dante Washington Dante Washington Dante Deneen Washington is a retired American soccer striker and currently a TV soccer color analyst.Washington played college soccer at Radford University, and was named a first team All-American in 1991... |
Portland Timbers Portland Timbers (USL) Portland Timbers was an American professional soccer team based in Portland, Oregon, United States. Founded in 2001, the team played in various leagues at the second tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, including the USL First Division and the USSF Division 2 Professional League, until the end of... and Virginia Beach Mariners Virginia Beach Mariners The Virginia Beach Mariners were an American soccer club, who formerly played in the USL First Division of the United Soccer Leagues, the second division in the US Soccer hierarchy behind Major League Soccer... |
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| 2003 2003 A-League -Northeast Division:-Southeast Division:-Central Division:-Pacific Division:-Northeast Division:-----Southeast Division:-Central Division:-Pacific Division:-Eastern Conference final:-Western Conference final:-----Final:... |
Charleston Battery Charleston Battery Charleston Battery is an American professional soccer team based in Charleston, South Carolina, United States. Founded in 1993, the team plays in the American Division of the new USL Professional Division, the third tier of the American Soccer Pyramid.... |
3-0 | Minnesota Thunder Minnesota Thunder Minnesota Thunder was an American professional soccer team based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States. Founded in 1990, the team played in the USL First Division , the second tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, until 2009. The team played its home games at the National Sports Center in nearby... |
Thiago Martins Thiago Martins Thiago Martins is a retired Brazilian football striker.-Early Life and Amateur Career:Martins was born on the east side of São Paulo, Brazil, and came to the United States in 1996. He landed in Los Angeles, California, at 19 years old and with little money... |
Pittsburgh Riverhounds Pittsburgh Riverhounds Pittsburgh Riverhounds is an American professional soccer team based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States. Founded in 1999, the team plays in the National Division of the new USL Professional Division, the third tier of the American Soccer Pyramid.... |
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| 2002 2002 A-League -Northeast Division:-Southeast Division:-Central Division:* Cincinnati lost three point for using an ineligible player-Pacific Division:-Playoff bracket:-Playoff first round:* Montreal defeated Charlotte 0-1, 1-0... |
Milwaukee Rampage Milwaukee Rampage The Milwaukee Rampage is a defunct American soccer franchise, which played in Milwaukee, Wisconsin in the A-League. The Rampage folded in 2002 because of financial problems, despite winning the A-league championship that year, as well as in 1997. The Rampage was founded in 1994 as a member of the... |
2-1 (2OT) | Richmond Kickers Richmond Kickers The Richmond Kickers are an American professional soccer club based in Richmond, Virginia, United States. Founded in 1993, the team plays in the American Division of the USL Professional Division, the third tier of the American Soccer Pyramid... |
Fadi Afash Fadi Afash Fadi Afash is a former football player with the Portland Timbers of the USL First Division.On January 22, 2010 he was ranked 15th in the USL Second Division Top 15 of the Decade, which announced a list of the best and most influential players of the previous decade.-Playing career:Afash is... , Eduardo Sebrango Eduardo Sebrango Eduardo Sebrango is a Cuban-Canadian footballer who currently plays for Montreal Impact in the North American Soccer League.-Club:... , and McKinley Tennyson McKinley Tennyson McKinley Tennyson is an American soccer forward who played two seasons with the Portland Timbers and the 2002 playoffs with the Los Angeles Galaxy. He was the 2002 USL First Division points leader.-Youth:... |
Portland Timbers Portland Timbers (USL) Portland Timbers was an American professional soccer team based in Portland, Oregon, United States. Founded in 2001, the team played in various leagues at the second tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, including the USL First Division and the USSF Division 2 Professional League, until the end of... , Montreal Impact Montreal Impact Montreal Impact was a Canadian professional soccer club based in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Founded in 1992, the team played in the North American Soccer League , the second tier of the American Soccer Pyramid until the 2011 season. The owner Joey Saputo now operates the MLS team Montreal ImpactThe... , and Portland Timbers Portland Timbers (USL) Portland Timbers was an American professional soccer team based in Portland, Oregon, United States. Founded in 2001, the team played in various leagues at the second tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, including the USL First Division and the USSF Division 2 Professional League, until the end of... |
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| 2001 2001 A-League -History:The addition of the Portland Timbers this season saw the renewal of a Pacific Northwest rivalry between them, the Seattle Sounders and Vancouver Whitecaps which dated back to the North American Soccer League. Although Vancouver was not new to the league, this was the first season they... |
Rochester Raging Rhinos Rochester Raging Rhinos The Rochester Rhinos are an American professional soccer team based in Rochester, New York, United States. Founded in 1996, the team plays in the National Division of the new USL Professional Division, the third tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, having self-relegated from the USSF D2 Pro League... |
2-0 | Hershey Wildcats Hershey Wildcats Hershey Wildcats were a professional soccer team, based in Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA, that played in the USL A-League between 1997 and 2001. The team was owned by Hershey Entertainment and Resorts Company... |
Paul Conway Paul Conway (soccer) Paul Conway is a retired American soccer forward who spent five seasons in the English lower divisions before returning to the United States. He was the 2001 United Soccer Leagues leading goal scorer and MVP... |
Charleston Battery Charleston Battery Charleston Battery is an American professional soccer team based in Charleston, South Carolina, United States. Founded in 1993, the team plays in the American Division of the new USL Professional Division, the third tier of the American Soccer Pyramid.... |
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| 2000 2000 A-League -Northeast Division:-Atlantic Division:-Central Division:-Pacific Division:-Eastern Conference:-Western Conference:-----Eastern semifinal 1:-Eastern semifinal 2:-Western semifinal 1:-Western semifinal 2:... |
Rochester Raging Rhinos Rochester Raging Rhinos The Rochester Rhinos are an American professional soccer team based in Rochester, New York, United States. Founded in 1996, the team plays in the National Division of the new USL Professional Division, the third tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, having self-relegated from the USSF D2 Pro League... |
3-1 | Minnesota Thunder Minnesota Thunder Minnesota Thunder was an American professional soccer team based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States. Founded in 1990, the team played in the USL First Division , the second tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, until 2009. The team played its home games at the National Sports Center in nearby... |
Paul Conway Paul Conway (soccer) Paul Conway is a retired American soccer forward who spent five seasons in the English lower divisions before returning to the United States. He was the 2001 United Soccer Leagues leading goal scorer and MVP... , Greg Howes Greg Howes Greg Howes is an American soccer player, currently player-coach for Tacoma Tide in the USL Premier Development League.-Career:... , and Johnny Menyongar Johnny Menyongar Johnny Menyongar is a Liberian footballer currently playing for Shillong Lajong F.C. in India's I-League.-College:... |
Charleston Battery Charleston Battery Charleston Battery is an American professional soccer team based in Charleston, South Carolina, United States. Founded in 1993, the team plays in the American Division of the new USL Professional Division, the third tier of the American Soccer Pyramid.... , Seattle Sounders Seattle Sounders (USL) Seattle Sounders was an American professional soccer team founded in 1994 as a member of the American Professional Soccer League. In 1997, the team became a member of the USL First Division, the second tier of the United States soccer pyramid, until 2008, after which the majority of the team's... , and Minnesota Thunder Minnesota Thunder Minnesota Thunder was an American professional soccer team based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States. Founded in 1990, the team played in the USL First Division , the second tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, until 2009. The team played its home games at the National Sports Center in nearby... |
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| 1999 1999 A-League -Northeast Division:-Atlantic Division:-Central Division:-Pacific Division:-Eastern Conference:-Western Conference:-Eastern Conference Semifinal 1:-Eastern Conference Semifinal 2:-Western Conference Semifinal 1:... |
Minnesota Thunder Minnesota Thunder Minnesota Thunder was an American professional soccer team based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States. Founded in 1990, the team played in the USL First Division , the second tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, until 2009. The team played its home games at the National Sports Center in nearby... |
2-1 | Rochester Raging Rhinos Rochester Raging Rhinos The Rochester Rhinos are an American professional soccer team based in Rochester, New York, United States. Founded in 1996, the team plays in the National Division of the new USL Professional Division, the third tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, having self-relegated from the USSF D2 Pro League... |
Mark Baena Mark Baena Mark Baena is a retired American soccer player. Baena is the highest goalscorer in the history of USL First Division, where he amassed eighty-six goals... and Niall Thompson Niall Thompson Niall Joseph Thompson is an English-born Canadian footballer, who works currently as Assistant coach of Surrey United Firefighters.-Club career :... |
Seattle Sounders Seattle Sounders (USL) Seattle Sounders was an American professional soccer team founded in 1994 as a member of the American Professional Soccer League. In 1997, the team became a member of the USL First Division, the second tier of the United States soccer pyramid, until 2008, after which the majority of the team's... and Vancouver 86ers |
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| 1998 1998 A-League -Northeast Division:-Atlantic Division:-Central Division:-Pacific Division:-Eastern Conference:-Western Conference:-Eastern Conference semifinal 1:-Eastern Conference semifinal 2:-Western Conference semifinal 1:... |
Rochester Raging Rhinos Rochester Raging Rhinos The Rochester Rhinos are an American professional soccer team based in Rochester, New York, United States. Founded in 1996, the team plays in the National Division of the new USL Professional Division, the third tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, having self-relegated from the USSF D2 Pro League... |
3-1 | Minnesota Thunder Minnesota Thunder Minnesota Thunder was an American professional soccer team based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States. Founded in 1990, the team played in the USL First Division , the second tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, until 2009. The team played its home games at the National Sports Center in nearby... |
Mark Baena Mark Baena Mark Baena is a retired American soccer player. Baena is the highest goalscorer in the history of USL First Division, where he amassed eighty-six goals... |
Seattle Sounders Seattle Sounders (USL) Seattle Sounders was an American professional soccer team founded in 1994 as a member of the American Professional Soccer League. In 1997, the team became a member of the USL First Division, the second tier of the United States soccer pyramid, until 2008, after which the majority of the team's... |
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| 1997 1997 A-League The 1997 USISL A-League season.-Overview:At the end of the 1996 A-League season, the U.S. second division A-League collapsed. Five of the six teams in the A-League then joined the USISL which had three leagues in 1996, beginning with the third division USISL Select League. With the collapse of... |
Milwaukee Rampage Milwaukee Rampage The Milwaukee Rampage is a defunct American soccer franchise, which played in Milwaukee, Wisconsin in the A-League. The Rampage folded in 2002 because of financial problems, despite winning the A-league championship that year, as well as in 1997. The Rampage was founded in 1994 as a member of the... |
1-1 (SO) | Carolina Dynamo Carolina Dynamo Carolina Dynamo is an American soccer team based in Greensboro, North Carolina, United States. Founded in 1993, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the South Atlantic Division of the Eastern Conference.The team plays its home... |
Doug Miller Doug Miller Doug Miller is a U.S. soccer forward and a youth soccer coach. He spent one season in Major Indoor Soccer League and nine in the National Professional Soccer League, winning two championships and leading the league in scoring in 1998-1999. Miller also played ten seasons of outdoor soccer in the... |
Rochester Raging Rhinos Rochester Raging Rhinos The Rochester Rhinos are an American professional soccer team based in Rochester, New York, United States. Founded in 1996, the team plays in the National Division of the new USL Professional Division, the third tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, having self-relegated from the USSF D2 Pro League... |
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| 1996 1996 A-League -Regular season:* Win = 3 points* Shootout win = 1 point* Loss = 0 points-Semifinal 1:-Semifinal 2:-Final:-Points leaders:-Honors:* MVP: Wolde Harris* Leading goal scorer: Doug Miller... |
Seattle Sounders Seattle Sounders (USL) Seattle Sounders was an American professional soccer team founded in 1994 as a member of the American Professional Soccer League. In 1997, the team became a member of the USL First Division, the second tier of the United States soccer pyramid, until 2008, after which the majority of the team's... |
2-0 | Rochester Raging Rhinos Rochester Raging Rhinos The Rochester Rhinos are an American professional soccer team based in Rochester, New York, United States. Founded in 1996, the team plays in the National Division of the new USL Professional Division, the third tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, having self-relegated from the USSF D2 Pro League... |
Doug Miller Doug Miller Doug Miller is a U.S. soccer forward and a youth soccer coach. He spent one season in Major Indoor Soccer League and nine in the National Professional Soccer League, winning two championships and leading the league in scoring in 1998-1999. Miller also played ten seasons of outdoor soccer in the... |
Rochester Raging Rhinos Rochester Raging Rhinos The Rochester Rhinos are an American professional soccer team based in Rochester, New York, United States. Founded in 1996, the team plays in the National Division of the new USL Professional Division, the third tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, having self-relegated from the USSF D2 Pro League... |
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| 1995 1995 A-League -Overview:In 1995, the American Professional Soccer League, which was the de facto U.S. second division, changed its name to the A-League. The league had ended its 1994 season seven teams and intended to expand to ten for the 1995 season. These plans were stymied when the Fort Lauderdale... |
Seattle Sounders Seattle Sounders (USL) Seattle Sounders was an American professional soccer team founded in 1994 as a member of the American Professional Soccer League. In 1997, the team became a member of the USL First Division, the second tier of the United States soccer pyramid, until 2008, after which the majority of the team's... |
2-1 (SO) | Atlanta Ruckus | Peter Hattrup Peter Hattrup Peter Hattrup is a retired U.S. soccer player and current youth soccer coach.-Youth and college:Hattrup was a four-year starter as a star player for the Seattle Preparatory School boys' soccer team. He graduated in 1982 and entered Seattle Pacific University.Hattrup was a scoring sensation for... |
Seattle Sounders Seattle Sounders (USL) Seattle Sounders was an American professional soccer team founded in 1994 as a member of the American Professional Soccer League. In 1997, the team became a member of the USL First Division, the second tier of the United States soccer pyramid, until 2008, after which the majority of the team's... |
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