Because we’ve been doing this for nearly a decade, we’ve seen a lot of clubs come and go. And I’m not saying that in a bad way. The nature of lower league soccer is cyclical for most and long-lived projects are a rarity. But every new club launched feels full of hope and promise and this nomination is no exception.

Edgewater Castle was founded in 2017, the same year we began discussing the premise of what Protagonist Soccer would be. Over the years, we watched the club grow into a fully-functioning program, built on the talent of amateur Chicago athletes. The team has always shown for its eye-catching kits and professional approach to marketing itself, but this year the women’s side took a major step forward and snatched a national title.

The team absolutely crushed their regular season schedule, finishing a perfect 8-0, surrendering a measly 5 goals throughout the season. In the postseason, the Rooks continued their domination, snatching a 3-1 win over Crystal Lake Force before beating Great Lakes regular season-winner Michigan Jaguars 4-2 in the semifinals. In the championship match, New England traveled to Chicago to take on the Rooks at home. The home side didn’t disappoint their fans, winning 2-0, with goals in both halves. A well-deserved national championship for a club that continues to excel.

Aside from their UWS Championship, the Rooks added a state title to their resume, winning the ISSA Women’s State Cup over Dekalb County 2-0 in July. That title crowned Edgewater as the best amateur women’s team in the state of Illinois.

After the women won their UWS national title, head coach Emma Woodley spoke about the team and what they had accomplished this season. “I feel like this year, we just started going and we never stopped. This group is so important and special. I think this is a moment. The domination you guys did this summer. I had a lot of fun and didn’t know what to expect. I’m really proud of you guys and I knew early on that this team was something special.”

When we spoke with the club in 2023 for our Under the Lights series, the opening answer really showed the heart of the club and what makes it different. When asked about the mission of the club, the response was simple. Edgewater Castle was founded “to provide the low-income, immigrant, and Refugee communities of North Chicago with a high-quality, highly organized, and uniquely accessible soccer experience.” Making good on that promise and delivering trophies is certainly a reason for Edgewater Castle to be nominated for the Protagonist Soccer Club of the Year.

- Dan Vaughn