Charleston Battery

Charleston Battery is a professional football club based in Charleston, South Carolina, USA. Founded in 1993, the club is one of the oldest continuously operating professional soccer clubs in the United States. The Battery competes in the USL Championship, the second tier of the American soccer pyramid.

The club was founded by Tony Bakker, a local businessman and football enthusiast, who wanted to bring professional soccer to the Charleston area. The Battery played its inaugural season in 1993 and quickly established itself as a competitive force in the USL. Over the years, the club has won numerous league titles and has consistently been a strong contender in the USL Championship.

Charleston Battery is known for its commitment to player development and has produced several players who have gone on to play in Major League Soccer and overseas. The club operates a successful academy program that provides a pathway for local youth players to progress to the professional level.

The Battery plays its home games at the Patriots Point Soccer Complex, a state-of-the-art facility located on the banks of the Cooper River in Mount Pleasant. The stadium, which was opened in 1999, has a capacity of 5,100 and is known for its intimate atmosphere and passionate fan base.

The club's colors are black and yellow, and its crest features a cannon, a nod to the historical significance of the Charleston area. The Battery's mascot, a dog named "Sarge", is a popular figure at home games and community events.

Throughout its history, Charleston Battery has been known for its community involvement. The club runs a variety of outreach programs aimed at promoting soccer and healthy lifestyles among local youth. The Battery also has a strong relationship with its supporters, who are known as the "Regiment" and are renowned for their passionate support.

The Battery has had several notable players over the years, including Osvaldo Alonso, who went on to become a star in Major League Soccer, and Paul Conway, the club's all-time leading goal scorer. The team's current head coach is Michael Anhaeuser, a former player who has been with the club in various roles since 1994.

In 2020, the club was purchased by HCFC, LLC, a group led by Rob Salvatore, marking a new era for the Battery. Despite the changes, the club remains committed to its core values of player development, community involvement, and on-field success.

In summary, Charleston Battery is a storied football club with a rich history and a bright future. With its strong community ties, successful player development program, and competitive on-field performance, the Battery is a shining example of the growth and potential of soccer in the United States.