The History of the New York Pancyprian Freedoms
The New York Pancyprian Freedoms in the 1984 CONCACAF Champions Cup.
The New York Pancyprian Freedoms are making a historic return to the National Amateur Cup Finals on July 25-27, 2024. Starting in 2018, the National Amateur Cup champion, the top tournament winner in the United States Adult Soccer Association (USASA), gains direct qualification for the following year’s Lamar Hunt US Open Cup. This is an honor that we have won in 2008, 2010 and 2011.
Founded in 1974 in response to Turkey's invasion and occupation of 36% of Cyprus, the New York Pancyprian Freedoms have become a cornerstone of the Hellenic community in New York, passionately promoting and preserving Hellenic heritage through the sport of soccer. Our club's foundation is rooted in resilience and pride, serving as a powerful symbol of cultural unity and strength.
Our mission has always been to promote the culture and heritage of the Greek Cypriot people and project their cause for justice and freedom. Our first founder and only President, Philip Christopher, has united the Greek American community into collective action to assist Cyprus. The Pancyprian Association of America, the largest Greek Cypriot organization, is a not-for-profit with Athletic, Cultural, and Youth Divisions celebrating 50 years of life and a triumphant history.
The Pancyprian Freedoms have established themselves as one of the most accomplished clubs in the history of the National Challenge Cup. Our unwavering commitment to excellence has seen our team consistently excel in the prestigious Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup each year since inception. Our dominance in the pre-Major League Soccer era is particularly noteworthy, having secured the Cup three times—in 1980, 1982, and 1983. Following our monumental triumph in 1983, the Pancyprian Freedoms achieved another significant milestone by reaching the semifinals of the CONCACAF Champions Cup, cementing our reputation as a formidable force in the world of soccer.
Our club's notable achievements include:
US Open Challenge Cup - Lamar Hunt Champions: 1980, 1982, 1983
USASA Open Cup Champions: 2008, 2010, 2011
Cosmopolitan League Champions: 9 times
ENYSA State Cup Champions: 8 times
Hellenic American Soccer League Champions: 6 times
CONCACAF Champions Cup Semifinals: 1984
Internationally, the New York Pancyprian Freedoms have showcased their prowess by securing impressive victories against top teams. We triumphed over Hapoel of Israel with a 2-1 victory and dominated Bologna of Italy with a commanding 3-0 win. Additionally, we held our own in a thrilling 3-3 draw against Istria from the former Yugoslavia, further solidifying our reputation as a formidable force on the international stage.
Our history is a testament to the strength and pride of American citizens honoring their Hellenic heritage while playing to project the struggle of the Greek Cypriot people for freedom and justice. Throughout our 50-year history, some of the biggest Greek soccer stars have worn our blue and white uniform, including Mimis Papaioannou, Mimis Domazos, Dr. Lakis Nicolaou, and Stelios Rotsides.
The New York Pancyprian Freedoms are proudly supported by an array of major sponsors who have significantly contributed to our success and growth. These include American Network Solutions, LLC, Philip Christopher, FOS Development Corp., George Halkidis, Pete Halkidis, Nikos Pafitis, Andreas Pafitis, Nikos Mouyiaris, and Dinos Iordanou. Their unwavering support and dedication to our mission have been instrumental in helping us promote Hellenic heritage and achieve excellence on and off the field.
Our current roster features players from MLS, USL, and top college soccer programs, continuing our legacy of excellence.
We also support one of the largest and most recognized youth soccer programs in New York City—the Eleftheria Pancyprian Soccer Club—ensuring that our commitment to promoting Hellenic culture and heritage continues for generations to come.
