Michiana Fútbol Club formerly South Bend Lions Football Club is an American soccer club based in South Bend, Indiana, that plays in USL League Two, the American pre-professional soccer league. The club was established on November 18, 2019. The 2022 USL2 campaign was successful by winning the Valley Division.
History
On November 18, 2019, it was announced by USL League Two that South Bend Lions FC would be the newest team to join the league for their 2020 season, joining the Great Lakes Division.[1] The logos and colors for the club were also unveiled at a press conference held in South Bend's County-City Building.[1] Ritchie Jeune was introduced as the club's owner while Thiago Pinto, the head coach of Bethel University's soccer team, was introduced as the club's technical director.[1] During the press conference, Jeune stated that South Bend was one of "three or four different locations" that his team visited before deciding to form a team in the city.[1]
Ownership
The club's owner is Ritchie Jeune, who is also the principal owner of Kettering Town, in England's National League North, Shantou Lions FC, a club based in China.[2]
The Club has grown to include a successful USL-Academy boys team (Summer 2023)that currently plays in USL-Academy League play. As well as womens’ programs to debut (summer 2024) USL W League Lionesses and USL-A womens’ team. [3]
Poland
England
Ecuador
Nigeria
United States
Germany
Brazil
Ghana
Columbia
Liberia
Japan
Tanzania
