Lamar Neagle (Ballard Football Club)
Overview
Lamar Justin Neagle, a distinguished figure in American soccer, is known for his significant contributions both as a professional player and club co-founder. Born on May 7, 1987, in Tacoma, Washington, Neagle is most renowned for his tenure with Seattle Sounders FC in Major League Soccer (MLS). Throughout his career, he has played for several teams, including D.C. United, Montreal Impact, and Charleston Battery, and has achieved accolades such as the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup title. Post-retirement, Neagle co-founded Ballard FC, a semi-professional soccer club playing in the USL League Two, marking a new chapter in his soccer journey.
Recent Developments
- 2024 Season Move: For the 2024 season, Ballard FC announced a temporary relocation to Memorial Stadium due to renovations at their usual home, Interbay Stadium, aiming to comply with ADA standards. This move to a venue with significant Seattle soccer history has enabled the club to reach a larger audience with a capacity of 10,000 seats.
- Season Highlights: Ballard FC had a successful 2024 season, securing their second consecutive USL League Two Northwest Division title. The season was marked by record-breaking matches and robust fan support, highlighting the strong community interest in the team.
- Expansion Plans: Ahead of the 2025 season, Ballard FC announced the launch of a women's team, joining the USL W League. This expansion is part of a broader strategy to increase access to and opportunities in soccer for women in Seattle.
- Community Engagement: The Ballard FC Foundation continues to drive impact through various community programs, including free soccer camps and partnerships with local organizations, reflecting Neagle's commitment to community empowerment through sports.
Personal Information
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Lamar Justin Neagle |
| Born | May 7, 1987, Tacoma, Washington |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Former Soccer Player, Club Co-founder |
| Known For | Seattle Sounders FC, Ballard FC |
| Education | University of Nevada, Las Vegas |
Early Life and Education
Lamar Neagle was born and raised in Tacoma, Washington, where he developed a passion for soccer at an early age. He attended Thomas Jefferson High School, where he made a mark by breaking a long-standing school record by scoring six goals in a single game. Post high school, he attended the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, and played for the UNLV Rebels from 2005 to 2008. His college career was impressive, leading to significant recognition and propelling him into professional soccer.
Career and Notable Achievements
- Professional Beginning: Neagle began his professional journey with Seattle Sounders FC in 2009 but gained prominence during his time with Charleston Battery, where he won the USL Championship and was named MVP in 2010.
- MLS Impact: He returned to Seattle Sounders in 2011, contributing to the team's success, including winning the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup in 2011. Neagle also played for Montreal Impact and D.C. United in various stints.
- Notable Stats: Over multiple spells with the Sounders, Neagle recorded 42 goals in MLS competitions and remained a key player until his retirement in July 2023.
- Ballard FC Co-founding: In 2021, alongside fellow alumni, Neagle co-founded Ballard FC, a move that highlights his dedication to fostering local soccer talent.
Current Work and Impact
Currently, Neagle serves in an executive role at Ballard FC, focusing on the club's operations and strategic direction. His contribution to the club has been pivotal in growing a vibrant soccer community in Ballard, Seattle. Through Ballard FC and its foundation, Neagle impacts the local community by promoting soccer as a tool for youth development and community engagement.
Ballard FC
Ballard FC, founded by Lamar Neagle and others in 2021, is based in Seattle's Ballard neighborhood. As of 2024, the club competes in the USL League Two, demonstrating rapid growth and local popularity. Ballard FC emphasizes community involvement, evident through their support of various local non-profits and businesses.
Ballard FC Stadium
In 2024, Ballard FC temporarily moved its home games to Memorial Stadium due to renovations at Interbay Stadium. This transition allowed for greater fan engagement with increased seating capacity and marks a historical moment as the last team to play in its current structure before major renovations.
Ballard FC Roster
The 2024 roster included a mix of returning players and new talent, showcasing diverse skills and contributing to the team's continued success in the league. With strong leadership from the coaching staff, Ballard FC has maintained a competitive edge on the field.
Conclusion
Lamar Neagle's journey from a local boy in Tacoma to a professional soccer player and now an influential community leader in Seattle illustrates a dedication to both the sport and his local roots. Through founding Ballard FC, Neagle ensures soccer's growth as a community asset, inspiring the next generation while fostering an inclusive environment. His legacy continues to influence the present and future of local soccer in Seattle.