In a state known for its mountains, maple, and strong community spirit, a soccer revolution is quietly gaining momentum. Welcome to matchday in Burlington, where Vermont Green Football Club (Vermont Green FC), Burlington’s men’s soccer club, is rewriting the playbook on what a modern soccer club can be.
Vermont Green FC, based in Burlington, Vermont, is a soccer team competing in USL League Two, redefining semi-professional soccer in the state with a bold mission rooted in community and sustainability. Since launching in 2022, founded by Patrick Infurna, Sam Glickman, and Matthew Wolf, Vermont Green FC has played with purpose and passion, becoming one of the most exciting, mission-driven teams in USL League Two. New for 2025, Chris Taylor has been named Head Coach after three strong seasons serving as Assistant Coach since the team’s inaugural season.
Building Vermont Green FC: Pro Soccer with a Purpose
The club began with a bold dream: to bring high-level soccer to Vermont while using the world’s most popular sport as a vehicle for environmental justice. From their home pitch at the University of Vermont’s Virtue Field, they’re merging sport with sustainability in an innovative and inspiring way.
“The 2025 season is shaping up to be our biggest yet, with 12 home matches at Virtue Field and a full roster of community initiatives,” says co-founder Patrick Infurna. “In our first three seasons, we’ve seen tremendous support from the community for our teams and environmental justice initiatives. Burlington has firmly planted a flag as one of the best cities in the country for soccer. The fans, the players, the mission - it’s all clicking. We’re ready to go full tilt this summer!”
That connection runs deep. In a town where sustainability and social responsibility are woven into daily life, Vermont Green FC feels like a natural extension of the community.
The Rise of Semi-Professional Soccer in Burlington, Vermont
Soccer’s growth across the U.S. has been impossible to ignore, with Vermont being no exception. The state is riding a soccer high, with the University of Vermont Men’s Soccer Team making headlines as national contenders and champions. That momentum has created fertile ground for the growth of semi-professional soccer in Burlington, Vermont, and the Vermont Green FC to flourish.
Burlington has responded in kind. In the 2024 season, the club sold out 10 of its 12 home games, regularly drawing over 2,500 fans to Virtue Field. From toddlers waving team flags to college students pounding on drums, the matchday experience is a family-friendly, engaging, and electric one. Matchdays in Burlington rival any in the league - and the squad feeds off that energy.
Vermont Green FC Player Spotlight
Shining a spotlight on some star players for the Vermont Green FC 2025 season are Zach Zengue and Niklas Herceg.
If you've attended previous games, you'll recognize Zengue - a familiar face and team co-captain entering his third year. The attacking player, who has notched eight goals in 27 appearances for the Green, was drafted in the 2024 MLS SuperDraft by Columbus Crew and has since continued his collegiate career at Georgetown University.
“Spending another summer in Vermont has made it feel like a second home to me. The community and team have been an incredible blessing, and I’m truly grateful to be part of it,” says Zenque. “I’ve been looking forward to this summer with a lot of anticipation, especially knowing how much we’ve built together over the past year. My goal this season is to give my best at all times, keeping in mind the community and staff who continue to support and inspire me. They deserve nothing less.”
Meanwhile, goalkeeper Herceg joins the roster after anchoring the national title run with the UVM Men’s Soccer Team. With reflexes like lightning and a championship mindset, he’s expected to be a game-changer between the posts.
From Development League to Pro Pipeline
A standout in USL League Two, Vermont Green FC is a key step in the pro-player pathway, helping elite college athletes sharpen their skills, showcase their talent, and move up the ranks. Players range in age from 18 to 24, and many are scouted nationally and internationally thanks to the club’s coaching connections.
And it’s working. Since 2022, 15 former players have signed professional contracts, a testament to the club’s talent pipeline and coaching quality. Vermont Green FC is more than just a summer stopover. It’s a launchpad.
“Playing here allows our athletes to sharpen their skills, get seen, and prepare for that next step in their careers,” Infurna shares.
The Future of Women’s Soccer at Vermont Green FC
The club is also laying the groundwork for something even bigger: launching a women’s team. While still in development, the initiative is gaining traction, with U.S. Women’s National Team legend Sam Mewis involved in the early planning stages. Mewis will lead two women’s exhibition matches this season.
“Having Sam lead this effort is an absolute dream,” says Infurna. “She brings championship pedigree and incredible leadership as we expand our women’s program this season.”
Matchday Magic at Burlington's Vermont Green Football Club
Virtue Field transforms on game days. Local food trucks line up, kids play mini-games, and juggle soccer balls on the sidelines. Local nonprofits offer hands-on environmental education. It’s a festival of football with a soul.
This year, things kick off with the Maple Cup home opener on Saturday, May 24, against FC Laval from Quebec. Fans can also look forward to exclusive club merch, including a new collab practice tee with Zero Gravity Brewery dropping the week before the kick.
It Starts in the Stands: The Spirit of Vermont Green FC
Vermont Green FC is more than a club with its most vocal and enthusiastic local support group, The Green Mountain Bhoys, who were established prior to the team's inaugural season. The Bhoys have been instrumental in creating an electrifying match-day atmosphere. Learn the team chants here.
"The matchday atmosphere is electric,” says Tyson Foster, a member of the Green Mountain Bhoys. “Whether you're standing in the chanting section or sitting with family, there’s something for everyone. Great food, great vibes, and a team that always gives 110%—rain or shine."
Join the Movement
Vermont Green FC is more than just a team. It’s a movement rooted in sport, sustainability, and community. Lifelong soccer fans and those brand new to the beautiful game are all invited to be part of the club’s 2025 campaign.
So lace up your boots, grab a beer and a scarf, and join the action. The players are ready. The crowd is loud. And this season, Vermont Green FC is playing for keeps.
Get your scarf, bring your voice, and we’ll see you on Virtue Field this May.
Tickets, schedule, and merch here.
