San Francisco Glens SC: From Irish Roots to Local Soccer Power

San Francisco Glens SC stands today as the largest and most influential soccer club in San Francisco, yet its journey from humble Irish beginnings to USL League Two prominence tells a story that truly embodies the spirit of community football in the United States.

The Birth of San Francisco Glens SC and Its Irish Heritage

San Francisco Glens SC traces its origins back to 1961, but the seeds were sown four years earlier. In 1957, a pivotal moment occurred when Celtic FC, the renowned Scottish club, toured the United States and gifted their kits to Dr. Michael McFadden, an Irish-American residing in the Bay Area. Inspired by this gesture, Dr. McFadden founded the Glens with the aim of serving San Francisco’s burgeoning Irish community. The club’s inaugural match, played in those same Celtic kits, set the tone for a tradition deeply rooted in Irish culture—a tradition that included attending Mass on Sundays, followed by a Glens game.

San Francisco Glens SC and Community Engagement

As decades passed, San Francisco Glens SC evolved far beyond a gathering point for Irish expatriates. The club transformed into a non-profit organization dedicated to providing affordable soccer opportunities in the city. Through outreach programs and academy initiatives, the Glens have become a beacon for youth development, standing in contrast to the pay-to-play systems that dominate much of American youth soccer. Their commitment to inclusion and affordability has allowed young players from various backgrounds to flourish under the club’s banner, reinforcing their position as a community cornerstone.

San Francisco Glens SC’s Growth and Professional Ambitions

Remaining true to its foundational values, San Francisco Glens SC has seen unparalleled growth in recent years. The club boasts a robust youth academy, senior teams, and a passionate fanbase—unique achievements for a non-profit in USL League Two. In 2023, the Glens unveiled their own stadium and dedicated facilities, a major milestone that underscores both ambition and sustainability. The Glens’ progress embodies the ideal of club soccer as a force for good, demonstrating how community-centric models can thrive in the modern American landscape.

Staying Authentic in the Changing Soccer Landscape

Throughout its journey, San Francisco Glens SC has maintained an unwavering commitment to authenticity. Board member Ryan Maquinana reflects, “We have a full-on academy and a full-on mission to be a complete club and to do it as a non-profit. We still have the same ambitions as everybody else. We just try to do it our own way.” It’s this dedication to their roots, paired with a progressive vision, that has made the Glens not just a club for Irish-Americans, but for all of San Francisco.

The Glens and the Future of Soccer in San Francisco

With the Glens now on the verge of joining the professional ranks, their influence continues to expand. The club’s facilities serve as a hub for players and families across the Bay Area, and their pioneering non-profit model is increasingly seen as a template for others. By focusing on affordable access and community engagement, the Glens are shaping the future of soccer in San Francisco, making the game accessible and inclusive.

Opinion: A Model for Community Soccer Nationwide

San Francisco Glens SC’s remarkable rise is a testament to what can happen when genuine community spirit meets footballing ambition. As a non-profit that rejects the often exclusive pay-to-play model, the Glens offer a refreshing blueprint for clubs throughout the country. Their journey proves that success and growth don’t have to come at the expense of tradition or accessibility. For those seeking a deeper look at transformative stories like this in the world of football, visit for more news.