In the heart of Bellevue, Washington, a new sporting chapter is about to unfold as the Midlakes United team makes its debut, bringing joy and excitement to the local community. With soccer mom and Bellevue visionary Treencee Russell leading the charge, Midlakes United will be coming to the Eastside in the spring of 2024. The new team will be playing in the USL 2, Northwest Conference. The pitch at Bellevue College will be the gorgeous venue of the new club this season. Plans are being discussed to upgrade the stadium to accommodate additional seating with a potential future capital campaign for a new grandstand.

 

Nestled amidst the scenic beauty of Bellevue, Midlakes United is not just another team; it's a testament to the power of passion and community spirit. Founded with a vision to offer a semi-professional team where players can hone their skillset on the way to the pros, the club aims to create a vibrant hub for soccer lovers to come together, watch the beautiful game of football, and build lasting connections.   

 

One of the standout features of Midlakes is its commitment to family-friendly entertainment at an affordable price. The club games will be open to the public, welcoming soccer enthusiasts wanting to watch high-level competition right here in Bellevue. There will also be Midlakes soccer camps, fostering an environment where diversity is celebrated and the joy of soccer is shared by everyone, regardless of background or experience.

 

Bellevue, already known for its strong sense of community and love of soccer, has eagerly embraced Midlakes United. Local residents and soccer enthusiasts alike have rallied behind the club, showcasing the true spirit of unity. The sense of camaraderie extends beyond the field, as Midlakes will soon be organizing community events, charity drives, and outreach programs, reinforcing its commitment to making a positive impact beyond soccer. Bellevue College has been an amazing partner in the entire process, providing the team its home field on campus. The team is still looking for local corporate sponsors!

 

The club's training facilities are providing players with an ideal environment to hone their skills. Led by PNW native and former US Women’s National Team member, Justi Baumgard, the coaches have been vetted not just for their expertise but also for their dedication to mentorship. Together with Jhon Kennedy Hurtado, Javier Cruz, Isaac Tallant, and Ryan Jackson, the tactical staff is working tirelessly to nurture talent and provide a competitive atmosphere to develop the future MLS players of tomorrow. Midlakes aims to not only produce skilled soccer players but also to develop well-rounded individuals who embody the values of teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship.

 

As Midlakes United kicks off its inaugural season, the excitement is palpable. On the advisory panels, Bellevue High School soccer coach, Peter Cochran, and Enatai resident, Rik Vanderkooi, have been helping develop the league, which will include Ballard FC, West Seattle Junction FC, Olytown FC, Lane United, Tacoma Stars, and teams from Salem and Portland, Oregon. Local fans eagerly anticipate the thrilling matches and memorable moments that will unfold on the pitch. With a new team to support, donning the club's colors and cheering passionately, Bellevue is poised to become a hotbed of soccer enthusiasm.  

 

Peter Cochran said of the venture, “As a twenty-year resident of the Eastside, local high school coach, and enthusiastic soccer supporter, I’m so excited that we will soon have grassroots professional soccer in our community. What Treencee and the rest of the staff at Midlakes United are doing with their club will strengthen our sport and add to our sense of community on the Eastside. We will have a team of our own. I’m excited for the games to begin.”

 

Midlakes United's arrival in Bellevue is about more than just sports; it's a celebration of community, diversity, and the enduring spirit of teamwork. As the club writes its first chapter in the city's sporting history, Bellevue residents can look forward to a future filled with goals, victories and, most importantly, the shared joy of soccer that brings them all together. 

For more information, visit the club's website at midlakesunited.com or find them at Midlakes United on all the socials.