Wilmington, NC & Tampa, Fla. – The United Soccer League announced today that Port City FC will join the USL W League for the 2026 season.  

Port City FC was founded in 2022 as a men’s pre-professional team before expanding and forming a women’s team in 2024. The club is dedicated to using soccer as a vehicle to uplift the Wilmington community by providing inclusive, competitive and character-building opportunities for players of all ages and backgrounds, creating a sense of belonging both on and off the field. 

“We’re thrilled to join the USL W League and help build a national platform that empowers women through soccer,” said Joey Lipoff, Port City FC President. “Port City FC is committed to developing local talent and driving positive change through sport, and this opportunity aligns perfectly with our mission.” 

Port City FC values excellence and integrity in an environment where its athletes perform at a high level while competing with honesty and respect, with the goal of developing and advancing in their soccer careers. 

The club is also grounded in the community, shown through its grassroots connections and ongoing partnerships with local youth programs such as PISA, WUFA and the YMCA. The club also collaborates with area non-profits, donating a portion of ticket sales from each home game to support local causes. As a community-funded and community-backed organization, Port City FC is deeply invested in Wilmington’s growth, actively participating in the Chamber of Commerce and the Downtown Business Alliance to foster civic engagement and regional development. 

The team will be led by Head Coach Chad Medcalfe, who has been with the women’s team since its inaugural season. Medcalfe has over 30 years of experience from the grassroots to collegiate level and has coached in Wilmington since 2018. 

Port City FC will play its home matches at Legion Stadium, located in Wilmington, NC, as a member of the Eastern Conference. 

“Port City’s expansion into the USL W League is a reflection of their commitment to inclusivity, opportunity and local impact,” said Joel Nash, USL SVP of Youth and Pre-Professional Properties. “Wilmington has a strong, passionate soccer culture, and we’re excited to see Port City FC provide a new platform for women to develop and compete at a high level.” 

The club’s partners include MLDA, Wrightsville Brewery, Floriana, Patriot Roofing, Rounds Golf and Ledo’s Pizza, Change the Game PT, Wilmington Health, Avance Care, and Laws and Libations. 

To learn more about Port City FC, visit the club’s website, Instagram and Facebook.