Philadelphia Lone Star Football Club
25TH ANNIVERSARY
Founded in 2001, Philadelphia Lone Star FC celebrates 25 years of football, community, and player development. From humble beginnings to national competition, The Stars have grown into one of Philadelphia’s most respected pre-professional football clubs, built on opportunity, resilience, and a clear pathway for players at every level.
Overview
Philadelphia Lone Star FC was founded in 2001 as Junior Lone Star Football Club, established to create competitive football opportunities for young players within Philadelphia’s diverse communities. What began as a single youth side has evolved into a multi-team football club competing across regional, state, and national competitions.
Over more than two decades, the Club has built a reputation for developing players, competing with integrity, and representing Philadelphia on some of the country’s biggest pre-professional stages. Today, Philadelphia Lone Star FC operates First Teams, Reserves, and a growing Academy — all connected through a clear development pathway known as The Stars Pathway.
Explore our history below:
FOUNDATION & EARLY YEARS (2001–2005)
Philadelphia Lone Star FC was founded in 2001 by Bobby Ali, originally competing as Junior Lone Star Football Club. The club’s first team was an EPYSA U17 State Cup side, beginning its journey with just 13 players.
Rooted in the local community, the club quickly became a platform for young footballers seeking structured competition, discipline, and opportunity.
GROWTH & YOUTH EXPANSION (2006–2010)
As the club gained momentum, additional age groups were introduced, including U19 and U23 teams, expanding Lone Star’s competitive footprint.
In 2008, the club captured its first major silverware, winning the Eastern Pennsylvania State U-23 Cup, marking an early milestone in its competitive evolution.
NATIONAL COMPETITION ENTRY (2011–2015)
In 2012, Philadelphia Lone Star FC entered the National Premier Soccer League (NPSL), marking the club’s transition into national pre-professional football.
This era saw the club compete against established programs across the region, laying the foundation for future growth, infrastructure, and competitive ambition.
CHAMPIONSHIPS & REBRAND (2016–2020)
Between 2016 and 2018, Philadelphia Lone Star FC enjoyed one of the most successful periods in club history:
- EPSA Amateur Cup Champs (2016 & 2018)
- EPSA Open Cup Champs (2016 & 2018)
- US Open Cup Appearances (2017 & 2019)
- NESL Champs (2018)
In 2018, the club officially rebranded to Philadelphia Lone Star FC, reflecting its growth beyond youth football and its place within the city’s pre-professional landscape.
A NEW ERA: USL, WPSL, UPSL & ACADEMY GROWTH (2021–PRESENT)
In 2021, Philadelphia Lone Star FC began competing in USL League Two, one of the top pre-professional leagues in North America, following a delayed launch due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Alongside USL League Two, the club expanded its competitive structure:
- UPSL First Team
- Women’s Program (WPSL)
- USL Academy League participation
- Expanded youth Academy (U17, U15, U13)
The club captured the Spring 2023 UPSL American South Premier Championship, reinforcing its standing as a competitive force across multiple levels.
By The Numbers
- Founded: 2001; Years Active: 25+
- National Leagues Competed In: 4 (NPSL, USL2, WPSL, UPSL)
- State Amateur Cup Titles: 2 (2016, 2018)
- State Open Cup Titles: 2 (2016, 2018)
- US Open Cup Appearances: 2 (2017, 2019)
- UPSL Conference Champions: 2 (SP’ 2023; Regular Season & Playoffs)
Looking Ahead
As Philadelphia Lone Star FC celebrates 25 years in 2026, the club remains committed to:
- Developing players at every level
- Competing with pride and purpose
- Serving the Philadelphia football community
The journey continues — The Stars keep rising.