Rockford About the Club
Rockford FC is a community-organized semi-pro soccer club operating under Umoja Sports Group, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. We bring fun and entertaining soccer to the Greater Rockford Area. Our area features strong talent and clubs at the youth level but has lacked an adult team to bridge the gap between youth soccer and the professional levels. We seek to provide that outlet to our young athletes and take their game to the next level.
Our Organization
Rockford FC operates as a club within Umoja Sports Group, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Umoja Sports Group serves as the governing body and nonprofit umbrella under which Rockford FC conducts its programs and operations.
RFC was established in 2019. Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, its first playing season was in 2021. In 2026, Winnebago Storm merged into Rockford FC and is now known as the Rockford FC Academy.
Rockford FC plays indoor in MASL3 (Major Arena Soccer League 3) and outdoor in the Greater Chicago Soccer League and the Heartland Conference of the Midwest Premier League, alongside semi-pro teams from Illinois, Wisconsin, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Iowa, Nebraska and Indiana.
Rockford FC is only capable to operate because of people like you. We encourage you to help continue to develop soccer in our region through volunteer work.
Our Mission
To provide competitive soccer opportunities that develop well-rounded athletes, foster a sense of community, and inspire a lifelong passion for the sport at every level of play, with programs that open the door for kids who might not otherwise get the chance.
Our Vision
To give young athletes the confidence, resources, and opportunities they need to develop into good human beings. It starts on the pitch — developing talent, building character, and creating a culture that families and our local community can be proud of.
Club Leadership
The people driving Rockford FC forward
Mike Creuzer
Chairman & President
Chairman and President of Rockford FC and board member of Umoja Sports Group, Mike brings years of leadership experience to the club.
Brett Suhayda
First Team Head Coach
Named the first head coach in Rockford FC history in February 2020, Brett spent 12 years coaching at Waubonsee Community College, winning five conference championships and four coach of the year awards and leading the Chiefs to their first NJCAA Division I National Tournament in 2017.
Christian Bitangalo
Technical Director
Christian leads the technical vision for Rockford FC, overseeing player development across all programs. He also serves as a board member of Umoja Sports Group.
Kimba Evariste
Senior Coach
Kimba brings passion and tactical expertise to the coaching staff at Rockford FC. He also serves as a board member of Umoja Sports Group.
Austin Curtis
Director of Senior Team Operations
Austin oversees the operations of the senior team at Rockford FC.
Achievements
View all accolades →GCSL U23 Champions
Won the Greater Chicago Soccer League U23 Division for the second time in three seasons.
GCSL U23 Champions
Won the Greater Chicago Soccer League championship in the inaugural U23 season.
