The History Behind London City
London City is a Canadian soccer franchise founded in 1973 and North America's oldest professional soccer club in active competition. The team is a member of the now Canadian Soccer League (CSL). Previously, the league was known as the Canadian Professional Soccer League (CPSL), Canadian National Soccer League (CNSL) and the National Soccer League (NSL).
London City's lone championship was won in 2003 when the club captured the Open Canada Cup, defeating the Metro Lions on Penalty Kicks. They were runners-up in 2005 in the same Cup competition, losing to the Windsor Border Stars in the final.
The team currently play their home games at Cove Road Field at the German Canadian Club in the City of London, Ontario, Canada. London City is the only professional soccer club in London, and is the highest level of soccer in Southwestern Ontario. The club colours are Red, Black and White and the fourth alternate colour is blue.
London City Soccer Club was founded on February 14, 1973 by Markus Gauss, who is still the active President. His son Harry Gauss took over the club a few years later and has helped create a soccer dynasty in North America. Harry passed away on October 31, 2009 after a three year battle with brain cancer. Harry's youngest son Ryan stepped in just before the 2007 season - as the club headed into to a three year restructuring process - and since has become the new Chief Executive Officer (C.E.O.) and General Manager. London City is family run organization that concentrates on giving local players a shot in the "big league".
The team's current Head Coach is Andrew Loague, a team veteran and runner-up in the Canadian Soccer League (CSL) Most Valuable Player (MVP) voting in 2008. Loague scored 14 goals to finish second in scoring among all players. Loague also acts as a Senior Advisor to the C.E.O., and General Manager and plays an active day to day role in helping London City grow towards a Canadian Soccer League championship.
In 2010, London City will play in its 37th season of professional soccer action.
Since its inception, the club has seen some remarkable players come and dawn the jersey. To honour some of these exceptional players London City has retired their numbers. The following are the players who have been honoured for their service, dedication and passion for London City Soccer Club.
#9 - Luan Jonuzi
#24 - Tonino Commissio
#25 - Gerald Gallagher
Stay tuned to see who will be the next player to join the list, there is one player scheduled to have his number retired in 2010.