Rhode Island FC: Year 2 Outlook – Building on a Strong Foundation
- Will Tondo
- Mar 14
- 4 min read
It’s been 110 days since Rhode Island FC’s heartbreaking defeat in the USL Championship Final. Now, after an offseason of growth and refinement, they return to the pitch tomorrow, ready to build on the foundation laid in their inaugural season.
Year 1 was about more than just soccer—it was about creating something lasting. After years of planning and anticipation, RIFC took the field for the first time, determined to forge a winning culture and prove they belonged in the league. The journey wasn’t without challenges: a slow start, weeks of hard-fought draws, and the growing pains of a new organization finding its footing while calling Bryant University’s Beirne Stadium a temporary home. The weeks felt long, the months flew by, and as the team gelled, they found their stride—culminating in an incredible run to the USL Championship Final.
Rhode Island FC became the first true first-year club to reach the USL Championship Playoffs since four of seven expansion teams accomplished the feat in 2019. They didn’t just compete; they made history.
Now, with a new season and a brand-new home at Tidewater Landing, the club is poised for even bigger things in 2025. Let’s break down the biggest moments from last year, the key offseason moves, and what’s in store for Year 2.
Rhode Island FC - Looking Back: A Debut Season to Remember
Starting fresh in a league stacked with experienced teams is never easy, but Rhode Island FC showed up and showed out.
2024 By the Numbers:
Overall Record: 12W - 15D - 7L (Finished 5th in the Eastern Conference)
Goals Scored: 56
Goals Conceded: 41
Historic First Win: The team secured their inaugural victory against the Las Vegas Lights in April, setting a positive tone for the season.
Playoff Status: Eastern Conference Champions; USL Championship Finalists
Playoff Journey: Rhode Island FC advanced to the USL Championship Final, defeating top-seeded teams like Louisville City FC and Charleston Battery before falling to Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC in the final.
Team Leaders: Forward JJ Williams not only earned the October Player of the Month but also led the playoff scoring charts with five goals. Midfielder Noah Fuson clinched the 2024 Golden Playmaker Award, leading the league with 10 assists.
Beyond the stats, the team gave fans some unforgettable moments. Their first-ever win, a 2-1 thriller against Las Vegas Lights FC, set the tone. The squad fought hard all season, stringing together clutch performances against heavyweights like Louisville City FC and Charleston Battery.
The attack was spearheaded by Albert Dikwa and JJ Williams, both leading the team with 11 goals each, while midfield maestro Noah Fuson controlled the tempo, finishing as the league's top assist provider with 10 assists. Between the solid backline and the steady hands of Koke Vegas in goal, RIFC built a foundation worth believing in.
Roster Moves: Who’s In, Who’s Out?
No team stays the same year to year, especially an expansion club looking to level up. RIFC made some big moves this offseason to bolster their squad.
Key Additions:
Maxi Rodriguez (Midfielder, Detroit City FC) – A veteran playmaker who brings experience and leadership.
Dani Rovira (Defender, Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC) – A versatile fullback with a high work rate.
Hugo Bacharach (Defender, Minnesota United FC) – A young, promising center-back ready to make his mark.
Taimu Okiyoshi (Midfielder, Marshall University) – Fresh off a stellar college career, he’s a potential breakout candidate.
Notable Departures:
Stephen Turnbull (Defender, Birmingham Legion FC) – A steady presence in Year 1, but RIFC opted for fresh legs.
Prince Saydee (Midfielder, Charleston Battery) – Moved on after a solid season of playmaking contributions.
RIFC prioritized tightening up the defense and adding midfield creativity. The real question: will these moves translate to a deeper playoff run?
Expectations for 2025: Can they repeat the inaugural magic?
Last year was about proving they belonged. This year? The goal should be hosting a playoff game, returning to the finals, and winning the whole league. Ambitious? Yes, but Rhode Island FC knows how to make waves. So what needs to happen?
More Goals, Less Reliance on JJ Williams – He carried the attack last year. They need another scorer to step up.
Defensive Consistency – The backline showed flashes of brilliance but struggled at times. New additions should help.
Winning at Home – RIFC had a solid road record but dropped points at home. That’s got to change. The new stadium and atmosphere will be one worth playing for.
Speaking of the New Stadium…
Tidewater Landing Stadium is officially here. Well, almost. The stadium has been on tour for fans across the state, and they are set to host the first match in May. No more playing on borrowed turf—this is Rhode Island FC’s home, built for soccer and packed with potential.What makes it special?
Capacity: 10,500 – Perfect size for a rabid USL fan base.
Soccer-Specific Design – No more awkward sightlines; this is built for the beautiful game.
Game-Changing Atmosphere – With passionate fans and intimate stands, this could become one of USL’s toughest places to play.
Rhode Island has waited a long time for a stadium like this. Now, it’s time to fill it.
Final Thoughts: A Club on the Rise
Rhode Island FC did what they needed to do in Year 1—lay the groundwork. Now, it’s about taking that next step. They’ve got a new home, a bolstered roster, and a fan base ready to make some noise. This team is built to contend. One thing is certain: it’s an exciting time to be a Rhode Island soccer fan. See you at Tidewater Landing. Up The Tide!
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