Club History
Although not appreciated at the time, the idea for the Omaha Football Club (“Omaha FC”) first
originated in October 2008 at a Scooter’s coffee shop in Omaha, Nebraska. It was the first meeting
between John Keating, Director of Coaching for Gladiator Soccer Club, and Alex Mason, Director of
Coaching for Millard Star Soccer Club (“Arsenal”), to discuss the possibility of a merger of their two
soccer clubs.
Although Alex and John had known each other for some time and respected each other’s
accomplishments and expertise, it was always as coaches for opposing clubs. Arsenal and Gladiator, the
two most successful soccer clubs in the state, had been battling at every level for over a decade (think of the
Hatfields and the McCoys and you get the picture). This rivalry was constant, deeply-felt, and,
oftentimes, rather bitter.
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The idea of a merger was even more surprising considering the background
of these two individuals and the history of their respective clubs. Alex, a
native of London, England, and a life-long fan of the English Premier League
club, Arsenal F.C., had launched the Arsenal select program himself in 1996.
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The program had even adopted the distinctive cannon logo and red uniforms of its namesake. The
Arsenal teams soon became fixtures at local and regional competition throughout Nebraska and have
enjoyed great success. |
Although the Gladiator club had been in existence for over 20 years, John was hired
as the first Director of Coaching for the club in 2004. Born in South Africa and a
recent transfer from Iowa, John was largely responsible for the dramatic rise in the
success of the Gladiator program in recent years. Players sporting the easily
recognized Gladiator crest could often be seen taking home the “hardware” at local
and regional tournaments. |
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The initial meeting between John and Alex was just the beginning of countless hours spent in discussions
involving board members, administrators, staff, coaches, and parents from both clubs. Initially wary and
unsure, these individuals were able to set aside their allegiances and recognize that the creation of
Omaha FC marks a considerable leap forward in soccer in Omaha and the surrounding area including:
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The creation of meaningful opportunities for players of all levels (both competitive and
recreational);
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Revamping of the coaching model for select and elite players;
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Developing unique and innovative programs like Kickstart (U4), the Youth Development Program (U5-U8), the Academy and Academy Lite (U9/U10); and,
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The continuation of existing programs such as TOP Soccer and the adult leagues.
Although new in name, Omaha FC is simply the progression of a legacy that began with two great soccer
clubs and, now represents the future of Omaha soccer.
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