San Diego Loyal Soccer Club Folds after Playoff Loss, Impending Arrival of MLS Team

Club's closure leaves impact beyond field, known for powerful stances on social justice issues and fostering community bonds under co-founder Landon Donovan.

• San Diego Loyal, co-founded by soccer legend Landon Donovan, announced closure following a playoff loss, primarily due to the impending arrival of the MLS team San Diego FC in 2025.
• The Loyal club, known for taking powerful stances on social justice issues, gained recognition when it walked off the field sacrificing a playoff spot due to an alleged homophobic slur against one of their players.
• Despite the club's ceasing operations, Donovan expressed pride in the team's unique identity that drew and connected people, stating that such a phenomenon may never exist again in the game.
• The closure of the club was also attributed to failed attempts to secure locations for a stadium, training facility, and academy; financial losses ahead of MLS's arrival were a significant factor.
• Andrew Vassiliadis, the club owner, expressed hope for the future of soccer in San Diego and encouraged Loyal fans to support the upcoming MLS team.

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