Staten Island, NY — Staten Island Monarchs are proud to officially announce a strategic partnership with Staten Island Soccer Club (SISC), establishing a clear and locally rooted player pathway from youth soccer to elite, U20, and pre-professional opportunities on Staten Island.
This partnership brings together two organizations committed to long-term player development, education, and opportunity. Through this collaboration, select SISC players will gain access to elite training environments, player identification opportunities, and a direct pathway into Staten Island Monarchs, Academy, U20s and the pre-professional structure, while Staten Island Soccer Club maintains full control over its teams, coaches, and playing philosophy.
“The purpose of this partnership is to create a transparent and realistic pathway for talented players on Staten Island,” said Anthony Lambert, Co-Owner of Staten Island Monarchs and Executive Director of Champs Soccer Academy. “We want young players to see that a pre-professional pathway exists right here in our community.”
Lauren B. Cramer, Co-Owner of the Staten Island Monarchs, emphasized the broader community impact of the partnership.
“Our partnership with Staten Island Soccer Club reflects our shared belief in what soccer can do for this community,” said Cramer. “Together, we’re uplifting homegrown talent, celebrating the Monarchs’ connection to Staten Island, and supporting the players and their families who bring so much energy to New York neighborhood life.”
Leadership at Staten Island Soccer Club echoed the excitement surrounding the partnership and its impact on player development.
“I am very excited about our partnership with the Staten Island Monarchs,” said Richard Nellis, President of Staten Island Soccer Club. “A Staten Island travel club partnered with our hometown USL team. This will offer amazing opportunities for our players to not only raise their skill levels and personal development, but also offer a pathway to the USL.”
Paul Kadar, Club Treasurer of Staten Island Soccer Club, added, “I’m thrilled about the partnership between the Staten Island Soccer Club and the Staten Island Monarchs — it’s an absolutely fantastic opportunity for local players to sharpen their skills, gain incredible exposure, and truly elevate the soccer culture in our vibrant community.”
The partnership builds on the Staten Island Monarchs’ rapid competitive success. In their first year of operations, the Monarchs captured both the USL Pathway Classic Championship and the Metro Division title, demonstrating the strength of the club’s developmental and competitive model.
Together, Staten Island Monarchs and Staten Island Soccer Club are taking an important step toward strengthening the soccer ecosystem on Staten Island and creating meaningful, accessible opportunities for the next generation of players.
