IRVINE, Calif. (May 22, 2023) – The National Independent Soccer Association Board of Governors today announced the approval of Irvine, Calif.-based Irvine Zeta FC’s (IZFC) application for membership in the professional league. IZFC, currently playing in the United Premiere Soccer League’s SoCal South Division 1, will begin professional play in 2024, subject to U.S. Soccer Federation approval. IZFC will be the first Chinese-founded professional soccer club in the United States.

“Irvine Zeta FC brings to NISA an expansion in our numbers, but also an expansion in our diversity,” says NISA Executive Vice President Josh Prutch. “We are rebuilding a stronger West Coast presence. Importantly, with our on-boarding processes, we are building a stronger viability for clubs making the jump to the professional level.”

IZFC launched as a semi-professional club in September of last year. Along with its senior team, IZFC currently runs Zeta Academy, the club’s youth training program. The club will play home games at the Championship Soccer Stadium in the Great Park in Irvine.

“I am absolutely thrilled to see IZFC being part of NISA next year,” says IZFC President Cary Lyu. “It's an incredible opportunity for our club to showcase our talent on a national stage, and it will reflect the dedication and hard work we have put into our craft.

“We are excited to embrace this new challenge, united in our passion for the community and the beautiful game,” continues Lyu. “Together, we will strive for greatness and leave an indelible mark in the world of soccer. Irvine Zeta FC is ready for 2024!”

ZFC has been preparing since the beginning of this year. The amateur side has been doing really well in its semi-professional league. It is currently undefeated and confident in its pursuit of the fall season title.

“When we step into next year, we will only have to continue the work we are doing,” says IZFC Director of Operations Leo Furquim. “We know that the level of competitiveness will be much higher. But our entire team, from the front office to the players, is prepared to surprise the community.”

About Irvine Zeta FC

The National Independent Soccer Association was founded in 2017 with a mission to bring professional Irvine Zeta FC is based in Irvine, a beautiful coastal city with excellent geographical location, proper urban planning, and perennial ranking as the safest city in the United States. Irvine Zeta FC is the first-ever professional soccer club here specifically representing the city. The club will play home games at the Championship Soccer Stadium in the Great Park in Irvine. For more information, visit ZetaFC.com, and follow us on Instagram @irvinezetafc, Twitter @irvinezetafc. The club comes from Irvine, represents Irvine, and fights for Irvine!