New York Pancyprian Freedoms Vie for Historic 100th USASA National Amateur Cup
The New York Pancyprian Freedoms are set to compete in the finals of the 100th anniversary of the USASA National Amateur Cup, a landmark event celebrating a century of amateur soccer in the United States. The tournament will take place from July 25-28, 2024, in DeKalb, Illinois, just outside Chicago. This momentous event brings together amateur soccer teams from across the nation to vie for the prestigious Fritz Marth Cup.
Representing USASA Region 1, the New York Pancyprian Freedoms will face Tobacco Road FC of North Carolina (Region 3) in a highly anticipated semi-final match on Thursday, July 25th. Since its inception, the National Amateur Cup has been a cornerstone of amateur soccer in the U.S., fostering a strong sense of community among players and fans. The tournament's rich history underscores the grassroots passion that fuels the sport.
Philip Christopher, President of the New York Pancyprian Freedoms, remarked, "On the 50th anniversary of the Illegal invasion and continued Turkish occupation of Cyprus and the founding of the New York Pancyprian Freedoms, it is appropriate that our team is participating in the 100th Anniversary of the National Amateur Cup to represent our history and culture."
The New York Pancyprian Freedoms have a storied history of success in amateur soccer, having won the National Amateur Open, later known as the Werner Fricker Cup, in 2008, 2010, and 2011. This cup served as a qualifier for the Lamar Hunt US Open Cup until it was discontinued in 2018. Since then, the USASA National Amateur Cup champion has gained direct qualification for the following year’s Lamar Hunt US Open Cup.
The New York Pancyprian Freedoms are determined to further entrench their national legacy as one of the top amateur soccer clubs in the nation. Despite their past successes, including raising the Lamar Hunt US Challenge Cup in 1980, 1982 and in 1983 and representing the US in a CONCACAF competition, they have yet to claim the USASA National Amateur Cup.
Head Coach Panos Onisiforou emphasized the importance of this finals appearance, stating, "The finals of the National Amateur Cup represent the pinnacle of achievement for our players. We are prepared to perform at the highest stage and showcase the dedication and skill that define our team."
As the New York Pancyprian Freedoms step onto the field in DeKalb, they carry with them a legacy of excellence and a commitment to representing their community and history. This historic tournament is a testament to the enduring passion for amateur soccer in the United States, and the Freedoms are poised to make their mark on this centennial celebration.
