BOONE, N.C. & TAMPA, Fla. - The United Soccer League announced today that Appalachian Football Club will join USL League Two for the 2026 season.  

The club was founded in 2021 with the ambition to bring high-level men’s soccer back to North Carolina’s High Country after Appalachian State University’s men’s soccer program was dissolved. App FC previously competed in the NPSL, finishing first in the Southeast Conference in 2022 and 2024, and won the Southeast Conference Playoffs in 2022, advancing to the Northeast Region Final. The team progressed to the Second Round of the 2023 U.S. Open Cup after defeating League Two side North Carolina FC U23 on penalty kicks. 

“We’re very excited to be joining USL League Two as we head into the 2026 season,” said App FC Head Coach Dale Parker, who will stay on for the 2026 campaign. “Making this move will allow us to keep raising the bar on and off the field as we continue to try and grow the game in High Country. We are so grateful for the support and buy-in from our community, and hopefully, with this move, we are able to give even more back to them.” 

App FC’s ambitions stretch well beyond the playing surface as it has focused on rooting itself in the community. The club holds food drives, honors first responders at its matches, and marches in multiple local parades. Through its operations, App FC offers local students opportunities to gain experience working in sports and allows local businesses to engage with the community. When Hurricane Helene hit Boone and the surrounding areas in 2024, members of the club participated as community volunteers to help with clean-up.  

“Appalachian FC stands out in all the best ways,” said Joel Nash, USL SVP of Youth and Pre-Professional Properties. “From its strong play in the last few years, to its hard work in the community, the club represents the grit, camaraderie and passion for all who call the High Country home.”

A major draw of App FC is its unique branding and distinct mascot, Squatchy the sasquatch, whose likeness is stamped on the club’s logo.

In its five seasons, App FC has fielded teams featuring some of the top collegiate and pre-professional talents in the country. Niall Reid-Stephen spent the 2024 season with the Sasquatches before signing with South Georgia Tormenta FC in USL League One. The 24-year-old striker scored 13 goals, finishing third in the Golden Boot race and earning a spot on the 2025 All-League First-Team.

App FC will play in League Two’s Eastern Conference.

To learn more about Appalachian FC, visit the club’s website, Instagram, X, and Facebook.