We are
Our
Philosophy
We aim to help develop outstanding players and people.
The focus is on the person, guiding players to dominate their learning through empowerment and accountability.
We are assertive in our convictions—innovative in our approach and reflective after the fact, seeking constant growth and improvement.
On the field, our game model and our teaching are guided by educational literature, pedagogical principles, and a desire to win.
The playing style connects our youngest future stars to our First Team, while our First Team promotes and showcases homegrown talent, connecting us to our community.
We are not a selection of teams that wear the same shirt.
We're one club for our community in northeast Pittsburgh.
adding a second
Pittsburgh ECNL club
Talent within the Pittsburgh player pool is now a proven commodity.
Pitt's recent performance on both the women's and men's side is a testament to this.
The idea that the city cannot support two high level programs is outdated. Our location makes us non-threatening to the already established ECNL club in the city.
Pittsburgh soccer is ready for a proper rivalry and the ECNL is the perfect platform.
Steel City + ECNL
It's about fit
We've been delivering high-level game experiences for four years, proving we know how to fund and run events.
Our Performance Phase, NPSL and WPSL/UWS match events are consistently well-attended. The north of Pittsburgh is one of the fastest growing populations in Pennsylvania.
With four distinct locations, we have organically created a pipeline of players that is delivered in a framework that supports the family dynamic. Young players don't need to travel—they need to train. Similarly, older players need to push themselves among the best competition they can find. We've created a development pathway that is good for the game while not sacrificing the player experience.
Sitting above out sites is our regional team program, which provides a unique carrot for our players to aim for. Being the top player on your team is no longer enough; there is now more incentive for that individual player to work hard and do more.
player development
with a purpose
Our player-first phase model is a unique structure that was was built from the ground up with a clear plan.
Age-specific specialists work with our players across their journey through the phases, creating a defined pathway for development.
Our model is current, aligned with maturation cycles, and takes the pressure off of the family, enabling their son or daughter to find their level.
We prioritize a win-at-all-cost mentality for our players while not sacrificing how we win the game.
Our model is perfect for the ECNL because our second teams are some of the best in our area and we strive to have the best second teams in the nation. This trickle-up approach forces the cream to rise to the top.
"...Steel City stands out for its exceptional ability to develop top-tier talent while operating as a club first..."
"...Steel City's involvement in the ECNL platform would greatly enhance the league and bring substantial value..."
Ohio
University
Aaron Rodgers
Women's Soccer Coach
"...Thoroughly impressed with how they adhere to their development process in a challenging yet holistic environment..."
"...Clearly and consistently identify needs of young players, motivate them, and use the game as their educational tool..."
Indiana University
of Pennsylvania
Noreen Herlihy
Women's Soccer Coach
"... I strongly endorse Steel City FC in their pursuit to earn ECNL status. They are a great ambassador for the beautiful game..."
"... The club have done a phenomenal job in developing intelligent, high-character, and technical soccer players..."
James Madison
University
Devin Zvosec
Women's Soccer Assistant
"...At its core, it is a club that prioritizes player development while maintaining a strong commitment to club values..."
"...their inclusion in the ECNL would be highly beneficial and contribute significantly to the league's success..."
West Virginia
University
Nikki Izzo Brown
Women's Soccer Coach
"...structure and willingness to implement programming around players first is vital for continued growth of the game..."
"...refining the art of player development, collaborative, and open which brings a renewed perspective to help grow the game..."
University of
Pittsburgh
Ben Waldrum
Associate Head Men's Soccer Coach
"...Nothing but great interaction with Steel City. I've known the staff a long time, they are soccer guys and easy to work with..."
"...Always quality players to recruit during my time at Pitt and George Mason. They would be a great addition to the league..."
George Mason
University
Rich Costanzo
Men's Soccer Coach
