Match Review

Volunteers from the Colorado Springs Switchbacks Provide Mobility to Children with Disabilities Through the Go Baby Go Program

On Friday, June 18th, members of the Colorado Springs Switchbacks staff volunteered at the Go Baby Go Build Day hosted and run by The Resource Exchange. The event provides personalized miniatures jeeps to children with mobility issues that help increase development and mobility independence.

Once the cars were assembled, a pair of occupational therapists familiar with the two toddlers, Vicente and Sullivan, went through and built adaptations around the cars to make them both safe and user friendly for each child. Adaptations included chest harnesses for stability, hand driving modifications to the steering wheels, and safety bumpers around shoulders and heads. The cars help each child reach developmental milestones, move around easier than a wheelchair, and with time possibly even move independently.

To top off the build day, the team watched the toddlers take some celebratory laps through the building, and even sang happy birthday to the two boys, who both celebrated their birthdays within days of the big event.

Four Goals Earn Switchbacks FC First Win inDowntown Colorado Springs History

Colorado Springs, CO (June 16, 2021) – The Switchbacks recorded their first ever win in Downtown Colorado Springs history in a 4-2 win over the Tacoma Defiance, powered by Michee Ngalina's two goals and an assist, and Hadji Barry's goal and three assists.

Looking to build off of consecutive draws, the Switchbacks almost scored another early goal at Weidner Field when Michee Ngalina fired a shot from the left side of the penalty area that was saved. However, Tacoma ended up taking the early lead as Azriel Gonzalez dribbled along the goal line and played a pass to Marlon Vargas who finished it.

The Switchbacks would finally reap the rewards of dominating possession of the ball for the rest of the first half when Hadji Barry played a lofted pass over the top of the defense and Ngalina lifted his shot over the head of the goalkeeper for his first goal at Weidner Field.

The Switchbacks quickly turned the game around just four minutes later as Barry took a touch past his defender on the right side of the penalty area before unleashing a powerful ground cross that Deshane Beckford finished to give the hosts the 2-1 lead going into the half.

Ngalina almost struck again eight minutes into the second half as he held off a defender to claim a pass into the left side of the penalty area, only for the Tacoma goalkeeper, Spencer Richey to come up with another big save. Barry then tested Richey from a narrow angle on the left side of the penalty area on a shot that was blocked behind for a corner.

With just ten minutes remaining in the second half, Ngalina brought down a long ball over the defense before being fouled. With advantage being played, Barry hit a shot with his first touch from just inside the penalty area into the bottom left corner of the goal to extend the Switchbacks lead.

Tacoma got a goal back when Alec Diaz got on the end of a through ball and flicked the ball over Sean Melvin to finish the play. The Switchbacks would get a fourth goal to cap off the night as Barry touched the ball to Ngalina who used his speed to beat a sliding defender and finish at the near post from the left side of the penalty area for his second goal of the game.

The Switchbacks FC are on the road on Tuesday as the club takes on Austin Bold FC at 7:00pm MT on June 22. The Switchbacks are back at Weidner Field on Friday, June 25, against New Mexico United with gates opening at 6pm MT. The match is presented by Southwest Airlines with a Fireworks show directly following the match. Tickets are available HERE.

Colorado Springs, CO (June 16, 2021) – The Switchbacks recorded their first ever win in Downtown Colorado Springs history in a 4-2 win over the Tacoma Defiance, powered by Michee Ngalina’s two goals and an assist, and Hadji Barry’s goal and three assists.

Looking to build off of consecutive draws, the Switchbacks almost scored another early goal at Weidner Field when Michee Ngalina fired a shot from the left side of the penalty area that was saved. However, Tacoma ended up taking the early lead as Azriel Gonzalez dribbled along the goal line and played a pass to Marlon Vargas who finished it.

The Switchbacks would finally reap the rewards of dominating possession of the ball for the rest of the first half when Hadji Barry played a lofted pass over the top of the defense and Ngalina lifted his shot over the head of the goalkeeper for his first goal at Weidner Field.

The Switchbacks quickly turned the game around just four minutes later as Barry took a touch past his defender on the right side of the penalty area before unleashing a powerful ground cross that Deshane Beckford finished to give the hosts the 2-1 lead going into the half.

Ngalina almost struck again eight minutes into the second half as he held off a defender to claim a pass into the left side of the penalty area, only for the Tacoma goalkeeper, Spencer Richey to come up with another big save. Barry then tested Richey from a narrow angle on the left side of the penalty area on a shot that was blocked behind for a corner.

With just ten minutes remaining in the second half, Ngalina brought down a long ball over the defense before being fouled. With advantage being played, Barry hit a shot with his first touch from just inside the penalty area into the bottom left corner of the goal to extend the Switchbacks lead.

Tacoma got a goal back when Alec Diaz got on the end of a through ball and flicked the ball over Sean Melvin to finish the play. The Switchbacks would get a fourth goal to cap off the night as Barry touched the ball to Ngalina who used his speed to beat a sliding defender and finish at the near post from the left side of the penalty area for his second goal of the game.

The Switchbacks FC are on the road on Tuesday as the club takes on Austin Bold FC at 7:00pm MT on June 22. The Switchbacks are back at Weidner Field on Friday, June 25, against New Mexico United with gates opening at 6pm MT. The match is presented by Southwest Airlines with a Fireworks show directly following the match. Tickets are available HERE.

Brendan Burke
On playing opportunities growing to create four goal games:
"Yeah, I thought there were six or seven goals in that game for us honestly. I'm glad we were able to put four away, I'm really happy for Michee and Hadji, they were fantastic tonight, as always really. I mean they were fantastic in El Paso too, and Becky (Beckford) got in on the party, it's only his third game so that’s good. We're still building toward hopefully being able to drop multiple goals in every game.

On keeping the momentum up moving forward:
"We see Austin first and they’ve been solid, they don’t give away much in terms of opportunities going the other way. I didn’t see how their match ended tonight but I know they were locked up in a tight one with RGV so we'll prepare for them, and then we have two and three days which means opportunities for some of the younger guys in the group. We're not sure which day that rotation will happen, but I would expect to see a few more new faces. So were still building towards being able to put out the same lineup game after game.

Deshane Beckford
On scoring his first goal in front of the home crowd:
"I mean, to score here in front of these awesome fans is amazing, they’ve been supporting for so long. Otherwise for the goal, I'm so happy for the victory. The goal is just a plus, I'm just happy for the first victory, they’ve (the fans) been cheering us on, so this victory is really for them.

On the energy tonight at Weidner Field:
"We started out the game slow, but gradually we built on the game, and we showed ownership here. It's our home, we showed that in the goals game. We missed a couple but we'll work on that for sure going forward.

Sebastian Anderson
On finally getting three points at home:
" *Sigh of relief* Yeah, it means everything. It was a hard fought battle, but in the end, it's beyond words man. It's great to get the first three points here, and you know the fans were behind us, everything was great so it was just right that we got it tonight.

On playing consistently in games:
"I mean obviously I'd just like to thank my teammates for being in great spots and playing me great balls, and obviously just need to do what I do and do what I need for the team, and I'm just glad I helped get the win.

Brendan Burke
On playing opportunities growing to create four goal games:
“Yeah, I thought there were six or seven goals in that game for us honestly. I’m glad we were able to put four away, I’m really happy for Michee and Hadji, they were fantastic tonight, as always really. I mean they were fantastic in El Paso too, and Becky (Beckford) got in on the party, it’s only his third game so that’s good. We’re still building toward hopefully being able to drop multiple goals in every game.

On keeping the momentum up moving forward:
“We see Austin first and they’ve been solid, they don’t give away much in terms of opportunities going the other way. I didn’t see how their match ended tonight but I know they were locked up in a tight one with RGV so we’ll prepare for them, and then we have two and three days which means opportunities for some of the younger guys in the group. We’re not sure which day that rotation will happen, but I would expect to see a few more new faces. So were still building towards being able to put out the same lineup game after game.

Deshane Beckford
On scoring his first goal in front of the home crowd:
“I mean, to score here in front of these awesome fans is amazing, they’ve been supporting for so long. Otherwise for the goal, I’m so happy for the victory. The goal is just a plus, I’m just happy for the first victory, they’ve (the fans) been cheering us on, so this victory is really for them.

On the energy tonight at Weidner Field:
“We started out the game slow, but gradually we built on the game, and we showed ownership here. It’s our home, we showed that in the goals game. We missed a couple but we’ll work on that for sure going forward.

Sebastian Anderson
On finally getting three points at home:
” *Sigh of relief* Yeah, it means everything. It was a hard fought battle, but in the end, it’s beyond words man. It’s great to get the first three points here, and you know the fans were behind us, everything was great so it was just right that we got it tonight.

On playing consistently in games:
“I mean obviously I’d just like to thank my teammates for being in great spots and playing me great balls, and obviously just need to do what I do and do what I need for the team, and I’m just glad I helped get the win.

Man of the Match// Michee Ngalina
Scoring Summary// COS: Ngalina (32'), Beckford (36'), Barry (80'), Ngalina (89') | TAC: Vargas (11'), Diaz (85')
Saves// COS: Melvin (2) | TAC: Richey (7)
Discipline// COS: YC: Anderson (82'), | TAC: YC: Brewitt (66')

Man of the Match// Michee Ngalina
Scoring Summary// COS: Ngalina (32′), Beckford (36′), Barry (80′), Ngalina (89′) | TAC: Vargas (11′), Diaz (85′)
Saves// COS: Melvin (2) | TAC: Richey (7)
Discipline// COS: YC: Anderson (82′), | TAC: YC: Brewitt (66′)

Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC Take Points Off Undefeated El Paso on the Road

Colorado Springs, CO (June 12, 2021) – The Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC earned a hard-fought 1-1 draw on the road to El Paso Locomotive FC on Saturday night.

Locomotive FC got on the board from a corner kick in the 12th minute when the cross found the foot of Macauley King who volleyed the opener from six yards out. The Switchbacks dominated possession for the rest of the first half to slow the game down in the Texas heat. The first chance came from Michee Ngalina playing a ground cross to find Deshane Beckford from close range. However, Beckford couldn't get enough contact on the ball to direct it on target.

Late in the first half, El Paso had a few chances in quick succession but Jimmy Ockford blocked the initial shot before Jordan Burt cleared the second effort off the goal line before Sean Melvin could gather the ball. Almost immediately after, a short corner worked by the Switchbacks to find the head of Jimmy Ockford before Logan Ketterer made the save.

Aaron Gomez had an opportunity 12 minutes into the second half as he dribbled into the penalty area when Sean Melvin came out and made himself big to make the 1v1 save. With less than 20 minutes remaining, Ngalina had a driving run into the penalty area before he was knocked down by a defender. Hadji Barry stepped up and blasted the penalty kick into the top-right corner of the net for his fifth goal of the season.

Each team had an opportunity to win the game in the final seven minutes. El Paso's Aidan Apodaca hit a shot from the left side of the goal that Melvin was able to get fingertips to the ball to turn the shot onto the crossbar and out for a corner kick. Barry was looking for his second goal of the game in stoppage time as he turned his defender on the right side of the penalty area before Ketterer parried his shot wide of the near post.

In triple digit heat, the Switchbacks earned a point on the road to the last unbeaten team in the Western Conference while also ending their four game shutout streak in the process.

The Switchbacks are back at Weidner Field on Wednesday, June 16, against Tacoma Defiance with gates opening at 6pm MT. The first 500 fans in attendance will receive a free Switchbacks mask, courtesy of Capelli Sport. Tickets are available HERE.

Colorado Springs, CO (June 12, 2021) – The Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC earned a hard-fought 1-1 draw on the road to El Paso Locomotive FC on Saturday night.

Locomotive FC got on the board from a corner kick in the 12th minute when the cross found the foot of Macauley King who volleyed the opener from six yards out. The Switchbacks dominated possession for the rest of the first half to slow the game down in the Texas heat. The first chance came from Michee Ngalina playing a ground cross to find Deshane Beckford from close range. However, Beckford couldn’t get enough contact on the ball to direct it on target.

Late in the first half, El Paso had a few chances in quick succession but Jimmy Ockford blocked the initial shot before Jordan Burt cleared the second effort off the goal line before Sean Melvin could gather the ball. Almost immediately after, a short corner worked by the Switchbacks to find the head of Jimmy Ockford before Logan Ketterer made the save.

Aaron Gomez had an opportunity 12 minutes into the second half as he dribbled into the penalty area when Sean Melvin came out and made himself big to make the 1v1 save. With less than 20 minutes remaining, Ngalina had a driving run into the penalty area before he was knocked down by a defender. Hadji Barry stepped up and blasted the penalty kick into the top-right corner of the net for his fifth goal of the season.

Each team had an opportunity to win the game in the final seven minutes. El Paso’s Aidan Apodaca hit a shot from the left side of the goal that Melvin was able to get fingertips to the ball to turn the shot onto the crossbar and out for a corner kick. Barry was looking for his second goal of the game in stoppage time as he turned his defender on the right side of the penalty area before Ketterer parried his shot wide of the near post.

In triple digit heat, the Switchbacks earned a point on the road to the last unbeaten team in the Western Conference while also ending their four game shutout streak in the process.

The Switchbacks are back at Weidner Field on Wednesday, June 16, against Tacoma Defiance with gates opening at 6pm MT. The first 500 fans in attendance will receive a free Switchbacks mask, courtesy of Capelli Sport. Tickets are available HERE.

Colorado Springs Switchbacks Celebrate The Citys 150th Anniversary at the Beards, Bonnets, and Brews Fest

On Saturday, June 12th, several volunteers from the Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC, including our mascot Ziggy, attended “Beards, Bonnets, and Brews”, a celebratory event highlighting the founding of Colorado Springs 150 years ago.

A family friendly event, the festival consisted of beverage tastings from over 30 local breweries and distilleries, over a dozen food trucks, live music from popular local bands, and even a competition of best beards! In an effort to pique curiosity about the history of our founding, the event had a ‘living history’ element: actors roamed around in character as founders and other historical figures from Colorado Springs, and 1800s era games and activities were there to encourage play from people of all ages.

The event was held at the Rock Ledge Historic Site, a popular destination for historical buffs that includes period accurate storefronts and even a working blacksmith shop. It provided the perfect atmosphere for this “Party like it’s 1871” event.

Hundreds of people came out to enjoy what was the biggest festival in Colorado Springs since the start of the pandemic, and the day was topped off with an epic mascot tug ‘o’ war that our very own Ziggy was a proud participant in.

Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC Earn First Point at Weidner Field

Colorado Springs, CO (June 5, 2021) – An early goal, a late goal, and a pair of red cards saw the Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC draw 1-1 with San Antonio FC on Saturday night at Weidner Field.

The Switchbacks once again came out on the front foot with an early goal in the sixth minute of the game. Making his debut, Deshane Beckford played a through ball into the path of Hadji Barry who finished from a very tight angle on the right side of the goal, seeing his shot hit the side netting on the left side of the goal. Barry now has four goals in four games to start the 2021 season.

In first half stoppage time, a skirmish near the touch line resulted in Santiago Patino from San Antonio and Michael Edwards from the Switchbacks both see red cards to play the second half ten men versus ten men.

With 30 minutes to go, a cross from San Antonio force the ball to roll towards the goal before Jimmy Ockford slid in at the last moment to clear the ball off the goal line. Zach Zandi had an opportunity to double the hosts lead in the 78th minute when a pass from Barry found him seven yards out from goal but his shot was also cleared off the goal line.

Two minutes from full time, a free kick fell to the foot of Justin Dhillon who scored for San Antonio from close range. As stoppage time began, Michee Ngalina hit a half volley from the right side of the six yard box that San Antonio's goalkeeper, Matt Cardone, got fingertips on the shot to tip it on to the crossbar.

The 1-1 draw saw the Switchbacks earn their first points of the 2021 campaign at Weidner Field.

The Switchbacks FC are on the road next weekend as the club takes on El Paso Locomotive FC at 6:30pm MT on June 12. The Switchbacks are back at Weidner Field on Wednesday, June 16, against Tacoma Defiance with gates opening at 6pm MT. The first 500 fans in attendance will receive a free Switchbacks mask, courtesy of Capelli Sport.- Tickets are available HERE.

Colorado Springs, CO (June 5, 2021) – An early goal, a late goal, and a pair of red cards saw the Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC draw 1-1 with San Antonio FC on Saturday night at Weidner Field.

The Switchbacks once again came out on the front foot with an early goal in the sixth minute of the game. Making his debut, Deshane Beckford played a through ball into the path of Hadji Barry who finished from a very tight angle on the right side of the goal, seeing his shot hit the side netting on the left side of the goal. Barry now has four goals in four games to start the 2021 season.

In first half stoppage time, a skirmish near the touch line resulted in Santiago Patino from San Antonio and Michael Edwards from the Switchbacks both see red cards to play the second half ten men versus ten men.

With 30 minutes to go, a cross from San Antonio force the ball to roll towards the goal before Jimmy Ockford slid in at the last moment to clear the ball off the goal line. Zach Zandi had an opportunity to double the hosts lead in the 78th minute when a pass from Barry found him seven yards out from goal but his shot was also cleared off the goal line.

Two minutes from full time, a free kick fell to the foot of Justin Dhillon who scored for San Antonio from close range. As stoppage time began, Michee Ngalina hit a half volley from the right side of the six yard box that San Antonio’s goalkeeper, Matt Cardone, got fingertips on the shot to tip it on to the crossbar.

The 1-1 draw saw the Switchbacks earn their first points of the 2021 campaign at Weidner Field.

The Switchbacks FC are on the road next weekend as the club takes on El Paso Locomotive FC at 6:30pm MT on June 12. The Switchbacks are back at Weidner Field on Wednesday, June 16, against Tacoma Defiance with gates opening at 6pm MT. The first 500 fans in attendance will receive a free Switchbacks mask, courtesy of Capelli Sport.- Tickets are available HERE.

Brendan Burke
On the game's result tonight:
"I thought we were fantastic tonight for the better part of the game. That was really encouraging. If we play like that eventually were going to take our chances; there could have been four or five goals in that for us tonight against one of the best teams in the league, so I'm extremely proud of how our guys played. Unfortunately there was some outside factors that influenced how the first half turned out. We never really got control of the game from an officiating standpoint, which is tough, but we need to work through those moments and be smarter and not get sucked into fistfights and things like that. But I couldn't be more proud in general of how the group responded to what we saw from San Antonio."

On consistently scoring early in Weidner Field:
"We're well prepared, and we're going to continue to be well prepared going into games. And Hadji exemplifies that, he's as professional and well prepared a player as I've ever worked with."

Hadji Barry
On Beckford's assist tonight:
"It's very good to have Deshane back today, we were all looking forward to him playing in this game. Unfortunately he had to come out at halftime because of tactical changes, but I think he was fantastic in the first half, with his speed they couldn’t handle him. I'm looking forward to games coming up, I think we’re going to do better."

On getting consistently early goals at Weidner Field:
"It feels good, would have been better with the win, but I've scored three games on this field which feels good. I'm all about the team: team achievement, team accomplishments, but I am happy I am able to contribute to the team. Hopefully we can turn these into wins soon."

Jimmy Ockford
On his goal clearing save in the second half:
"I was just looking to cover my keeper, I saw Sean being aggressive coming out so my first instinct is to cover the goal if I see the goal keeper stepping, so in my mind I just needed to beat the attacker to the ball and that’s what happened. It got kicked out for a corner."

On energy in the second half and different chances:
"The guys brought the energy and it was a good response in the second half. I think knowing that we were a man down it was going to be an even tougher game because we have even more space, a little bit more running but yeah we have a resilient team and we persevered but it was just an unfortunate result."

Brendan Burke
On the game’s result tonight:
“I thought we were fantastic tonight for the better part of the game. That was really encouraging. If we play like that eventually were going to take our chances; there could have been four or five goals in that for us tonight against one of the best teams in the league, so I’m extremely proud of how our guys played. Unfortunately there was some outside factors that influenced how the first half turned out. We never really got control of the game from an officiating standpoint, which is tough, but we need to work through those moments and be smarter and not get sucked into fistfights and things like that. But I couldn’t be more proud in general of how the group responded to what we saw from San Antonio.”

On consistently scoring early in Weidner Field:
“We’re well prepared, and we’re going to continue to be well prepared going into games. And Hadji exemplifies that, he’s as professional and well prepared a player as I’ve ever worked with.”

Hadji Barry
On Beckford’s assist tonight:
“It’s very good to have Deshane back today, we were all looking forward to him playing in this game. Unfortunately he had to come out at halftime because of tactical changes, but I think he was fantastic in the first half, with his speed they couldn’t handle him. I’m looking forward to games coming up, I think we’re going to do better.”

On getting consistently early goals at Weidner Field:
“It feels good, would have been better with the win, but I’ve scored three games on this field which feels good. I’m all about the team: team achievement, team accomplishments, but I am happy I am able to contribute to the team. Hopefully we can turn these into wins soon.”

Jimmy Ockford
On his goal clearing save in the second half:
“I was just looking to cover my keeper, I saw Sean being aggressive coming out so my first instinct is to cover the goal if I see the goal keeper stepping, so in my mind I just needed to beat the attacker to the ball and that’s what happened. It got kicked out for a corner.”

On energy in the second half and different chances:
“The guys brought the energy and it was a good response in the second half. I think knowing that we were a man down it was going to be an even tougher game because we have even more space, a little bit more running but yeah we have a resilient team and we persevered but it was just an unfortunate result.”

Man of the Match// Hadji Barry
Scoring Summary// COS: Barry (6') | SA: Dhillon (88')
Saves// COS: Melvin (1) | SA: Cardone (4)
Discipline// COS: YC: Mahoney (15'), Beckford (17'), Makangila (49') – RC: Edwards (45+1') | SA: YC: Patino (34') – RC: Patino (45+1')

Man of the Match// Hadji Barry
Scoring Summary// COS: Barry (6′) | SA: Dhillon (88′)
Saves// COS: Melvin (1) | SA: Cardone (4)
Discipline// COS: YC: Mahoney (15′), Beckford (17′), Makangila (49′) – RC: Edwards (45+1′) | SA: YC: Patino (34′) – RC: Patino (45+1′)

Switchbacks Entertainment Hold First Concert Series in New Weidner Field in Downtown Colorado Springs

On Thursday, May 27th, Weidner Field hosted the Star Festival, the first concert to be held at the new state of the art facility. The Star Festival, a Latin concert whose line-up included half a dozen prominent artists in the Latin music community, was the first of Weidner Field’s multiple concerts to be produced this summer.

While weather hung above the stadium for most of the afternoon, the sun came out in time to create a beautiful backdrop to the lively music that lasted well into the evening. 4,000 fans came out to enjoy the music, atmosphere and food available at Weidner Field.

Friday, May 28th, saw the second concert to grace Weidner Field. Justin Moore, Chris Janson and Mackenzie Porter performed in the first of many country concerts to be hosted by Switchbacks Entertainment for Summer 2021.

Fans showed their dedication, coming out in droves despite the bad weather to cheer on the artists during the first leg of an almost fifty stop U.S tour. Nearly 6,000 fans showed up to celebrate the start of summer and enjoy the music, food and atmosphere provided at Weidner Field.

Switchbacks Entertainment Host Colorado College Graduation at Weidner Field

On Sunday, May 30th, Weidner Field hosted the graduation ceremony of the 2020 graduating class at Colorado College.

Over 5,000 students attended the graduation, along with thousands more family and friends. The graduating class of 2020 had their official graduation ceremony cancelled last year due to COVID, so while they had already received their diplomas and entered the workforce, the gesture from the college to have an in-person ceremony was appreciated by many.

It was a beautiful sunny day at Weidner Field, and many families, filled with joy at the graduation proceedings, commented on how beautiful the brand-new Weidner Field was.

Weidner Field, home of the Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC, hosted their inaugural home opener game last weekend on the 21st, to a nearly sold-out crowd of 8,000 fans. Their 2021 season will continue through October, and Weidner Field will host a variety of events, concerts and festivals throughout these summer months. Visit https://www.switchbacksfc.com/tickets to learn more about the team and the events happening here at Weidner Field.

On Sunday, May 30th, Weidner Field hosted the graduation ceremony of the 2020 graduating class at Colorado College.

It was a beautiful sunny day at Weidner Field, and many families, filled with joy at the graduation proceedings, commented on how beautiful the brand-new Weidner Field was.

Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC Open Weidner Field in Front of Sold Out Crowd

Colorado Springs, CO (May 21, 2021) – The Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC opened Weidner Field in Downtown Colorado Springs in front of a sold out crowd of 5,600 fans (70% capacity) on Friday night.

The Switchbacks opened the game with a bang as Austin Dewing played a through ball to the foot of Hadji Barry who opened up his hips and finessed his shot inside the right post just 66 seconds into the game. Barry now owns the first ever goal at Weidner Field in downtown Colorado Springs history with Dewing earning the assist in his final game for the Switchbacks.

New Mexico United equalized in the eighth minute when a deflected cross directed to Sergio Rivas who took a touch and hit his shot to the right side of the goal. The Switchbacks high pressing created an opportunity for Zach Zandi as the midfielder fired off a shot from 23 yards out that struck the base of the right post.

New Mexico got a second goal at the beginning of the second half as Brian Brown played a cross on the ground to Amando Moreno who lifted his shot over Switchbacks Goalkeeper, Andrew Pannenberg, from close range. Deep into second-half stoppage time with the Switchbacks pushing for a goal, New Mexico had a counter attack that set Daniel Bruce free to unleash a shot to the top right corner from the top of the box to extend the visitor's lead with the last kick of the game.

The Switchbacks FC are back at Weidner Field again on June 5 to take on San Antonio FC at 6pm with fireworks following the game. Tickets are available HERE.

Colorado Springs, CO (May 21, 2021) – The Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC opened Weidner Field in Downtown Colorado Springs in front of a sold out crowd of 5,600 fans (70% capacity) on Friday night.

The Switchbacks opened the game with a bang as Austin Dewing played a through ball to the foot of Hadji Barry who opened up his hips and finessed his shot inside the right post just 66 seconds into the game. Barry now owns the first ever goal at Weidner Field in downtown Colorado Springs history with Dewing earning the assist in his final game for the Switchbacks.

New Mexico United equalized in the eighth minute when a deflected cross directed to Sergio Rivas who took a touch and hit his shot to the right side of the goal. The Switchbacks high pressing created an opportunity for Zach Zandi as the midfielder fired off a shot from 23 yards out that struck the base of the right post.

New Mexico got a second goal at the beginning of the second half as Brian Brown played a cross on the ground to Amando Moreno who lifted his shot over Switchbacks Goalkeeper, Andrew Pannenberg, from close range. Deep into second-half stoppage time with the Switchbacks pushing for a goal, New Mexico had a counter attack that set Daniel Bruce free to unleash a shot to the top right corner from the top of the box to extend the visitor’s lead with the last kick of the game.

The Switchbacks FC are back at Weidner Field again on June 5 to take on San Antonio FC at 6pm with fireworks following the game. Tickets are available HERE.

Brendan Burke
On the game's result tonight:
"Yeah disappointed, I thought we started obviously very well, I think the first half changed on a tough call where Michee [Ngalina] was off on a breakaway and got dragged down, but they scored a minute later, and then it was somewhat even for the rest of the half. But a more experienced team, as we develop over the next couple weeks and months I think we’ll be able to manage the game a little better than we did tonight."

On the atmosphere in Weidner Field:
"Oh awesome, the fans were great and I know that there’s gonna be more and more out every time we come out, as the restrictions are lifted, and we need to start putting points on the board, and make people understand that they have something they can get behind going forward."

Austin Dewing
On making history with the first ever assist on goal at Weidner Field:
"It means the world to me. I’ve come up through Pride Soccer Club playing on really crappy fields so to play in the nicest field in the entire city if not the state, it’s a pleasure and it’s an honor."

On his feelings about the last game, and message to the fans:
"Oh man, I, I didn’t cry at all. No I mean it’s an emotional time for me, just cuz it’s closing a chapter of my life that has meant so much and it’s tough but I’m grateful for all the moments I did have, and I’m excited to move on. And as I said in my snippet I don’t know if it got played, it truly is an honor to serve and I’m glad to be doing that. And to the fans, I just, I love you so much, and thank you for having me."

Jimmy Ockford
On the key to tonight's early success, and moving forward:
"I think we were buzzing from the start, the energy was there, with the fans and having everybody here almost full capacity and I think we felt that right from the start. We were flying, and maybe we got a little complacent, but moving forward it's learning that we need to stay together, stay on the same page and I think just forgetting about what happens in the past and focus on what we can control now and moving forward.

On playing with Austin:
"He's a great guy, yeah, I love the kid. it’s gonna be hard to see him go, but no matter what I think he’s going to be successful and he’s going to enjoy his time back in the air force."

Brendan Burke
On the game’s result tonight:
“Yeah disappointed, I thought we started obviously very well, I think the first half changed on a tough call where Michee [Ngalina] was off on a breakaway and got dragged down, but they scored a minute later, and then it was somewhat even for the rest of the half. But a more experienced team, as we develop over the next couple weeks and months I think we’ll be able to manage the game a little better than we did tonight.”

On the atmosphere in Weidner Field:
“Oh awesome, the fans were great and I know that there’s gonna be more and more out every time we come out, as the restrictions are lifted, and we need to start putting points on the board, and make people understand that they have something they can get behind going forward.”

Austin Dewing
On making history with the first ever assist on goal at Weidner Field:
“It means the world to me. I’ve come up through Pride Soccer Club playing on really crappy fields so to play in the nicest field in the entire city if not the state, it’s a pleasure and it’s an honor.”

On his feelings about the last game, and message to the fans:
“Oh man, I, I didn’t cry at all. No I mean it’s an emotional time for me, just cuz it’s closing a chapter of my life that has meant so much and it’s tough but I’m grateful for all the moments I did have, and I’m excited to move on. And as I said in my snippet I don’t know if it got played, it truly is an honor to serve and I’m glad to be doing that. And to the fans, I just, I love you so much, and thank you for having me.”

Jimmy Ockford
On the key to tonight’s early success, and moving forward:
“I think we were buzzing from the start, the energy was there, with the fans and having everybody here almost full capacity and I think we felt that right from the start. We were flying, and maybe we got a little complacent, but moving forward it’s learning that we need to stay together, stay on the same page and I think just forgetting about what happens in the past and focus on what we can control now and moving forward.

On playing with Austin:
“He’s a great guy, yeah, I love the kid. it’s gonna be hard to see him go, but no matter what I think he’s going to be successful and he’s going to enjoy his time back in the air force.”

Man of the Match// Austin Dewing
Scoring Summary// COS: Barry (2') | NM: Rivas (8'), Moreno (49'), Bruce (90+7')
Saves// COS: Pannenberg (1) | NM: Tambakis (4)
Discipline// COS: YC: Ngalina (47'), Ockford (90+6') | NM: YC: Swartz (16'), Tinari (45+1'), Tinari (54'), Moreno (59'), Martinez (62'),

Man of the Match// Austin Dewing
Scoring Summary// COS: Barry (2′) | NM: Rivas (8′), Moreno (49′), Bruce (90+7′)
Saves// COS: Pannenberg (1) | NM: Tambakis (4)
Discipline// COS: YC: Ngalina (47′), Ockford (90+6′) | NM: YC: Swartz (16′), Tinari (45+1′), Tinari (54′), Moreno (59′), Martinez (62′),

Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC Hold 2021 Tryouts for Special Olympics Unified Team

On Saturday May 15th, the Switchbacks FC held the first open tryouts in partnership with Special Olympics Colorado to build the first ever Special Olympics Unified soccer team in the USL.

Tryouts started at 10 am and were open to all Special Olympics soccer players, club players, and community members both male and female over the age of 16. The team will be made up of a mix of Special Olympics athletes and unified peer partners: players to help assist in ensuring full inclusion during play.

Two exhibition games have already been scheduled for the fall, with one hosted at the Colorado Rapids' stadium and one right here at Weidner Field. The 2021 regular season will be exclusively vs. the Colorado Rapids' Unified Team.

The Switchbacks FC's Unified Team is sure to provide family friendly events and matches full of fun and some great soccer skills. Be sure to keep an eye our website for more information about upcoming games.

On Saturday May 15th, the Switchbacks FC held the first open tryouts in partnership with Special Olympics Colorado to build the first ever Special Olympics Unified soccer team in the USL.

Two exhibition games have already been scheduled for the fall, with one hosted at the Colorado Rapids’ stadium and one right here at Weidner Field. The 2021 regular season will be exclusively vs. the Colorado Rapids’ Unified Team.

The Switchbacks FC’s Unified Team is sure to provide family friendly events and matches full of fun and some great soccer skills. Be sure to keep an eye our website for more information about upcoming games.

Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC Drop First Game of 2021 on the Road in San Antonio

Photo Courtesy of San Antonio FC

Colorado Springs, CO (May 1, 2021) – The Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC lost 3-0 on Saturday night on the road to San Antonio FC in the first game of the 2021 season.

San Antonio FC got on the board first when Marcus Epps delivered a cross that Abraham Rodriguez was able to get a hand to deflect but Santiago Patino was there to head in the rebound in the 16th minute. Patino got a second twelve minutes later after a cross from PC found the sliding Colombian who redirected his shot inside the left post to double the lead in the first half.

The Switchbacks came out on the front foot to start the second half with the best opportunity falling to the foot of Michee Ngalina, but his shot was deflected out for a corner at the last moment. Michee Ngalina would get another opportunity to get the Switchbacks on the board in the 78th minute as he got on the end of a pass and rounded the goalkeeper but his shot was just wide of the right post. Patino completed his hat trick in the final minutes of the game as a through ball sent him in on goal before slotting his shot on the ground into the back of the net.

The Switchbacks are back on the road to face Sporting Kansas City II on May 14 before returning home for the Grand Home Opener at Weidner Field on May 21 vs New Mexico United. Click here to view the full Switchbacks schedule.

This will be the Switchbacks' first season in the new 8,000-seat state of the art stadium in Downtown Colorado Springs. Weidner Field is set to be the highest elevated professional stadium in the USL Championship and the United States at 6,035 ft.

Season tickets are the only way to confirm your tickets today and they can be purchased HERE or call 719-368-8480 to ensure your spot as a new era begins in Colorado Springs history.

Photo Courtesy of San Antonio FC

Colorado Springs, CO (May 1, 2021) – The Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC lost 3-0 on Saturday night on the road to San Antonio FC in the first game of the 2021 season.

San Antonio FC got on the board first when Marcus Epps delivered a cross that Abraham Rodriguez was able to get a hand to deflect but Santiago Patino was there to head in the rebound in the 16th minute. Patino got a second twelve minutes later after a cross from PC found the sliding Colombian who redirected his shot inside the left post to double the lead in the first half.

The Switchbacks came out on the front foot to start the second half with the best opportunity falling to the foot of Michee Ngalina, but his shot was deflected out for a corner at the last moment. Michee Ngalina would get another opportunity to get the Switchbacks on the board in the 78th minute as he got on the end of a pass and rounded the goalkeeper but his shot was just wide of the right post. Patino completed his hat trick in the final minutes of the game as a through ball sent him in on goal before slotting his shot on the ground into the back of the net.

The Switchbacks are back on the road to face Sporting Kansas City II on May 14 before returning home for the Grand Home Opener at Weidner Field on May 21 vs New Mexico United. Click here to view the full Switchbacks schedule.

This will be the Switchbacks’ first season in the new 8,000-seat state of the art stadium in Downtown Colorado Springs. Weidner Field is set to be the highest elevated professional stadium in the USL Championship and the United States at 6,035 ft.

Season tickets are the only way to confirm your tickets today and they can be purchased HERE or call 719-368-8480 to ensure your spot as a new era begins in Colorado Springs history.

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