The Buffalo Stallions was the beloved major indoor soccer league team that played at the Buffalo Memorial Auditorium from 1979 to 1984. Now, a semi-pro team (National Premier Soccer League – NPSL) by the same name is about to launch its inaugural season this coming spring.
I spoke to Kevin O’Neil, Director of Club and Strategic Operations a the Buffalo Stallions Soccer Club, who told me that the process of building the team is currently underway. Head coach Mark Spacone is currently scouting college and academy players, as the team prepares to host an open tryout at the Sportsplex in North Tonawanda. Along with regional players, there is a good chance that, through established connections, there will be a couple of international players on the team. Mainly, however, a spot on the Buffalo Stallions (20-30 player roster) will be a pathway for regional players to advance to professional realms.
We recently posted about another Buffalo Pro Soccer opportunity in Buffalo that is being spearheaded by Buffalo native and seasoned soccer executive Peter Marlette, Jr. Between the semi pro undertaking of the Buffalo Stallions, and the initiative to jumpstart Buffalo Pro Soccer in Buffalo, it looks as if regional soccer fans have a lot to look forward to in years to come. It is interesting to note that the Buffalo Stallions would most likely be a feeder team for Buffalo Pro Soccer, which means that the stars are aligned for both players and fans in WNY.
Currently, the Buffalo Stallions are not only scouting players, they are also scouting a venue that fulfills the criteria for the NPSL – the only Tier 1-sanctioned semi-professional league in the country. The league boasts over 90 teams competing nationwide, and is considered “a critical bridge for aspiring professional players and a platform for communities to unite around the global game.”
“The return of the Buffalo Stallions is about more than soccer—it’s about pride, community, and opportunity,” said Jeff Hoerner, Director of Buffalo Stallions NPSL Operations. “We are not just building a team; we are building a culture of excellence that will impact players, families, and our community for generations to come.”
“Buffalo has a passionate soccer community that deserves a team built on professionalism, deep community connections, and unwavering care for its fans,” said Tom Garigen, Executive Director. “We’re excited to provide a club that truly represents Buffalo’s spirit, one that our players, families, and supporters can be proud of for years to come.”
Once the season is underway (weekend of May 17), season ticket holders of the Buffalo Stallions will be able to catch a game for around $10. Kids under 16 years of age get in for free, along with the purchase of a paid adult ticket. The games are meant to be “family affordable” so that everyone gets a chance to experience the thrills of NPSL soccer.
Already, there is a lot of interest by players to be a part of this latest groundswell of soccer fever in Western New York. Between FC Buffalo, the Buffalo Stallions, and the efforts of Buffalo Pro Soccer, it looks as if Buffalo is becoming a fan-tastic, soccer-centric city once again.
Stay Connected:
- Website: probuffalosoccer.com
- Facebook: @BuffaloStallions
- Instagram: @buffalostallions
- Twitter/X: @buffstallions
- Tik Tok: @buffalostallions