USL Rochester Rhinos

Rhinos Release Statement on USSF Ruling

Published on January 24, 2011 under United Soccer League Championship (USL)
Rochester Rhinos News Release


ROCHESTER, NY - The Rochester Rhinos thank all of their fans who have supported and continue to support the organization as it moves into its 16th season of professional soccer. The recent developments in the decision by the United States Soccer Federation (USSF) to rescind the temporary provision of classification for the North American Soccer League (NASL) has placed the USL PRO League as the highest sanctioned level of soccer under Major League Soccer (MLS).

Statement from Rhinos President and COO Pat Ercoli:

The landscape of professional soccer has changed since the Rhinos first took the field in 1996 and we felt moving to the USL PRO for the 2011 season was the best decision for the franchise. The classification of Division II by the USSF is based on minimum standards and requirements and not on the level of play or the quality of players. Although we met those standards, our concerns were validated by the USSF's decision that some members of the NASL could not. We continue to focus on providing the best product possible under Major League Soccer.

The USL PRO League consists of 15 member clubs for the 2011 season playing in three five-team divisions with three clubs, Charleston Battery, Charlotte Eagles and Richmond Kickers celebrating their 20th season of play in professional soccer.

"Having a league schedule already in place and being able to market the Rhinos to sponsors and ticket purchasers in the Western New York Region has given our efforts and advantage we did not have last year" Ercoli said.

The Rochester Rhinos start their 16th season of professional soccer in Virginia against the Richmond Kickers on Friday, April 15th at 7:00pm. The home portion of the Rhinos 2011 USL PRO season begins on Saturday, May 7th against the Charleston Battery. Season ticket and flex packs for the 2011 season are currently on sale by calling (585) 454-KICK (5425).

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