Week 10: Playoffs Ahead

Week 10 Recap: Trophies, Titles & Playoffs Ahead

The regular season may be winding down, but the stakes just keep getting bigger. Week 10 brought a league title, a secured home playoff, and confirmation of an exciting semi-final showdown on the women’s side. In other words, Delaware Rising is officially in full trophy-chasing mode.

Let’s dive into the action!

Women’s Team: Eyes on the Playoffs

With no match again this past weekend due to the forfeit from Twinsburg United, the DRFC Women used the extra days to recharge and prep for what’s next.

And now we know:
The NOSL Playoff Semi-Final is officially set.

It’s a rematch from earlier in the season — and this time, everything is on the line. The Rising Women have been building to this moment, and they’ll be ready to bring it.

Men’s Team: Champions of the League

July 13 vs Mansfield Liederkranz – 4-1 Win
In their final regular season match, the DRFC Men did exactly what they’ve done all summer: handled business. A strong 90-minute effort in Mansfield saw the team lock down a 4-1 win, finishing at the top of the table and officially claiming the regular season league title.

This marks the first time in club history the men have finished #1 — and it couldn’t be more deserved.

Goals:

• Aidan Shepardson opened things up, finishing confidently after a quick, clever assist from Lincoln Wallace.

• Just 34 seconds after subbing on, Mubelele Mhango made an instant impact with a solo goal, turning defenders and burying a rocket into the corner.

• Captain Landon Kuhn stepped up and calmly converted from the spot to make it three.

• Late in the second half, Wallace capped off the scoring after a sharp connection with Kuhn, sealing the win and the crown.

Man of the Match: Captain Landon Kuhn — a composed penalty, an assist, and tireless leadership on both ends of the field. Fitting that he’d be the one to lead us into playoff territory.

It was the perfect ending to a statement season: trophies lifted, records broken, and now one more mission left: win the playoffs.

Looking Ahead: The Playoff Push Begins

Men’s NOSL Playoff Semi-Final:
📅 July 19
🆚 Ashland United
🕐 1:00 PM
🏟️ Buckeye Valley High School (Home)

The league title was step one. Now it’s time to defend the home turf and book a spot in the NOSL Final. Be there. Be loud. Be part of history.

Women’s NOSL Playoff Semi-Final:
📅 July 20
🆚 Ohio City SC
🕓 4:00 PM
🏟️ Benedictine High School (Away)

Revenge. Redemption. Resilience. All of it rolls into this playoff clash. Buckle up… this one’s going to be a battle.

We’re not done yet.
Delaware Rising is built for the big moments.
Up the Rising

Week 9: Trophy Secured

Week 9 Recap: Trophy Secured, History Made

A quiet week on the women’s side, but an unforgettable one for the DRFC men, as they brought home the club’s first-ever trophy on the men’s side in dominant fashion. Let’s just say… this one’s going in the books.

Women’s Team: Eyes on the NOSL Playoffs

Originally scheduled to take on Twinsburg United at home on July 12, the match was canceled due to a forfeit. With the regular season wrapped up, the DRFC Women now shift full focus to their NOSL Playoff Semi-Final.

The opponent, location, and kickoff time have yet to be announced, but make no mistake, this squad is gearing up for a deep postseason run.

Stay tuned for details as they become available. One thing’s for sure: they’ll be ready.

Men’s Team: league Cup Champions

July 6 vs Valentis Athletica – 8-0 Win (League Cup Final)
One match. One trophy. And ninety minutes of Delaware dominance.

In front of a fired-up crowd at Western Reserve Academy, the DRFC Men delivered a statement, controlling every inch of the pitch and lifting the League Cup in commanding fashion. It was a complete team performance that showcased this squad's talent, depth, and chemistry.

Goals:

• Lincoln Wallace opened the scoring with a composed header inside the box after a sharp cross from Harper Gillen.

• Aidan Shepardson made it two, smashing home a shot after a perfectly placed through ball from Gillen.

• Captain Landon Kuhn got on the scoresheet next, tucking in a calm finish off a clean assist from Mason Morris.

• After halftime, Ryan Miller went solo, smashing one home after a deflection from Valentis Athletica.

• Kuhn added his second of the night, curling one past the keeper after a clever setup from Kyle Querry.

• Wallace made it six, timing his run and finishing confidently off a pass from Kuhn.

• Minutes later, Wallace completed his hat trick — this time making a run onto a driven ball from Eli Traber, placing it into the back of the net.

• Shepardson capped the night with his second, slotting in a low drive after a slick assist from Mubelele Mhango.

Man of the Match: Lincoln Wallace — a finals hat trick, relentless work off the ball, and clinical finishing under pressure. A night to remember for the young striker.

At the final whistle, the men lifted the first trophy in the men’s club history — a massive milestone for Delaware Rising and a moment these players (and fans) won’t forget.

Looking Ahead: The Grind Continues

Next Up for the Men:
📅 July 13
🆚 Mansfield Liederkranz
🕓 4:00 PM
🏟️ Mansfield Liederkranz (Away)

With a trophy in hand and momentum rolling, the DRFC Men get back to league play as they chase down more hardware this summer.

Next Up for the Women:
🆚 NOSL Playoff Semi-Final
📅 TBD
🏟️ TBD

Playoffs are up next, and you better believe they’re coming in ready.

We’ve made history. But we’re just getting started.

Week 8: Showstoppers

Week 8 Recap: Shutouts, Showstoppers, and a Date with Destiny

Week 8 brought more goals, more grit, and two strong wins for Delaware Rising FC. With both squads firing, the women earned another clean sheet on the road while the men thrilled the home crowd with a goal-filled performance at Buckeye Valley. This club is rolling, and the momentum couldn’t be better timed with the League Cup Final just around the corner.

Let’s dive into the action:

Women’s Team: Locked In and Locked Down

June 29 @ Mansfield Liederkranz – 2-0 Win
A familiar opponent, a familiar result. For the second time in two weeks, the Rising Women took care of business against Mansfield, this time over a full 90 minutes. The squad looked composed from the start and executed on both ends of the pitch to secure another shutout and three points.

Goals:

• Captain Lindsey Whitmore opened the scoring with a cool finish after a sharp setup from Lindsey Castillo.

• Then Castillo got on the scoresheet herself, burying the second after a crisp assist from Avery Curtin.

Player of the Match: Lindsey Castillo — one assist, one goal, and nonstop work rate on the pitch. She’s been in her bag lately, and this performance sealed it.

The backline stayed solid, the midfield clicked, and Delaware left Mansfield with another clean sheet and even more momentum heading into July.

Men’s Team: Eight Goals and Eyes on the Cup

June 28 vs Ohio City SC – 8-4 Win
It was a goal fest at Buckeye Valley as the Rising men lit up Ohio City SC in one of the wildest matches of the season. While the defense had its hands full, the attack was relentless, firing eight into the back of the net and putting on a show for the home fans.

Goals:

• Lincoln Wallace got the party started early, finishing off a smart setup from Alex Spiers.

• He followed it up just minutes later with his second, this time assisted by Brady Smith.

• Captain Landon Kuhn stepped up and buried a penalty to make it three.

• Aidan Shepardson buried a goal after a bouncing ball in the box from Mubelele Mhango.

• Right after halftime, Wallace completed his hat trick thanks to a smooth feed from Mhango.

• Mhango then got one of his own, smashing in goal five after another connection with Shepardson.

• Mason Morris joined the party with a back-post curler, set up by none other than Captain Kuhn.

• Wallace added his fourth of the day from the penalty spot, capping off a massive day for the Rising forward line.

It wasn’t perfect defensively, but it didn’t need to be. The attack looked dangerous every time they touched the ball, and the team left no doubt that they’re peaking at the right time.

Looking Ahead: Cup Final & Home Finale

Next Up for the Women:
📅 July 12
🆚 Twinsburg United
🕔 5:00 PM
🏟️ Buckeye Valley High School

It’s the last home match of the regular season for the DRFC Women, don’t miss your chance to see this electric squad up close as they look to close out strong.

Next Up for the Men – League Cup Final:
📅 July 6
🆚 Valentis Athletica
🕞 3:30 PM
🏟️ Western Reserve Academy

This is what it’s all about. 90 minutes from lifting silverware. The Rising Men are locked in and ready to finish the job.

Rain or shine. Home or away. Cup or league.
Delaware Rising is built for it all.
Up. The. Rising.

Week 7: Storms & Statements

Week 7 Recap: Storms and Statements

Week 7 brought the full spectrum — rain delays, road wins, high-scoring performances, and a ticket punched to the League Cup Final. Both squads were on the move all week, and whether it was battling the weather or lighting up the scoreboard, Delaware Rising FC once again proved they’re built for the long haul.

Women’s Team: Halftime Hustle and a Road Reset

June 18 @ Mansfield Liederkranz – 2-0 Win
Sometimes it only takes a half to make a statement. The DRFC women hosted Mansfield for a midweek showdown that was ultimately called at halftime due to intense wind and rain, but not before Rising did what they came to do: take the lead and take the points.

Goals:

• Lindsey Castillo, assisted by Lindsey Whitmore

• Rileigh Glassburn, assisted by Kindall Duke
  

Player of the Match: Rileigh Glassburn, who led the front line with energy and precision in tough conditions.

From the opening whistle, Delaware looked sharp and composed. The passing was crisp, the press was aggressive, and both goals came from well-worked sequences. Though the storm cut the match short, the Rising women made the most of every minute, proving once again they can take care of business no matter the circumstances.

June 21 @ Süsserfuss Ballverein – 1-6 Loss
After a strong showing earlier in the week, Rising met a red-hot Süsserfuss side on the road. Despite early flashes of attack, Delaware fell behind and was unable to recover.

Goal:

• Alexis Ivory, assisted by Lindsey Castillo
  

It was a tough night, but also a reality check against a clinical and physical team. The effort never dipped — even late into the match, the women kept pushing — but the final ball didn’t fall their way, and Süsserfuss capitalized on their chances. These are the kinds of matches that sharpen teams over the long haul. Expect a response.

Men’s Team: Cup Final Bound and Statement Victory

June 17 @ Akron United – 4-1 Win (League Cup Semi-Final)
The Rising Men stepped into a big moment on the road and didn’t blink. Delaware booked their place in the League Cup Final with a composed and confident performance against a tough Akron United side.

Goals:

• Ryan Miller, assisted by Keegan White

• Landon Kuhn, assisted by Mason Morris

• Mubelele Mhango, assisted by Chewy Koo

• Kyle Querry, assisted by Brent Rader
  

Player of the Match: Captain Landon Kuhn, who continues to set the tone week after week.

Delaware managed the match brilliantly — cool under pressure, lethal in transition, and solid at the back. The squad looked dialed in from kickoff and showed the maturity of a team with silverware in sight. One more win stands between them and lifting the League Cup.

June 22 @ Twinsburg United – 8-0 Win
Just five days later, the Rising Men returned to league action and did it in style. A complete performance saw the team fire on all cylinders from start to finish.

Goals:

• Landon Kuhn, assisted by Austin Young

• Kyle Querry (unassisted)

• Mubelele Mhango, assisted by Landon Kuhn

• Lincoln Wallace  assisted by Mhango

• Joe Roberts, assisted by Eli Traber

• Nino Stassi, assisted by Landon Kuhn

• Austin Young, assisted by Landon Kuhn

• Lincoln Wallace assisted by Mason Morris
  
  

From start to finish, it was total control. The defense stayed organized, the midfield dictated tempo, and the attack showed both creativity and killer instinct. It was a statement win, not just about skill, but about chemistry and confidence heading into a critical part of the season.

Looking Ahead: Doubleheader Weekend at Home

⚽ Next Up for the Women
📆 June 29
🆚 @ Mansfield Liederkranz
🕑 2:00 PM

Back on the road against a familiar opponent, the Rising Women look to repeat the result from earlier this week — this time over a full 90 minutes. Expect fire from the kickoff.

🟦 Next Up for the Men
📆 June 28
🕐 1:00 PM
🆚 vs. Ohio City SC
📆 June 29
🕔 5:00 PM
🆚 vs. Süsserfuss Ballverein
📍 Both matches at Buckeye Valley High School

Two massive opportunities to take more points at home — and keep league momentum rolling. 

Week after week, this club is growing… in form, in fight, and in community. Whether it’s a short half, a stormy night, or a road trip to the finals, Delaware Rising FC continues to rise.

Come out. Be loud. Wear blue. And as always…
Up. The. Rising. 

Week 6: Reschedule, Resilience

Week 6 Recap: Reschedule and Resilience — A Week of Growth On and Off the Pitch

Week 6 brought a mix of emotions for Delaware Rising FC — a narrow road battle for the Women and a week of scheduling twists for the Men. While not everything went our way on the scoreboard, the commitment, passion, and progress from both teams continue to shine through.

Let’s unpack it:

Women’s Team: Nothing Left Unspent in 1-2 Battle

After a dominant two-game win streak, the DRFC Women came into their match against Ohio City SC ready for a true test. Having outscored their previous opponents 14-1, Rising hit the pitch in Cleveland with focus and fire, determined to keep the streak aliv

It wasn’t the start they wanted — Ohio City struck early, sneaking in a goal just five minutes into the match. But Rising didn’t flinch. They responded with urgency, discipline, and a spark of brilliance from an unlikely spot.

Ali De Gracia, the ever-reliable centerback, stepped up with a stunning right-footed volley into the top corner, leveling the match before halftime. Not only was it a spectacular goal from a defender, but it also earned her well-deserved Player of the Match honors.

The second half saw both teams battling for control, but a deflected shot gave Ohio City the edge with just 15 minutes to play. Despite relentless pressure and attacking waves from Delaware, the final whistle came too soon.

It was a tough 1-2 loss, but there’s no questioning the heart this team showed on the road. And with two more matches this week, expect them to bounce back fast and hungry.

Men’s Team: Navigating a Stretch of Schedule Shake Ups

It’s been a bit of a chessboard for the DRFC Men these past two weeks. With the Stark County United forfeit win in Week 4 and now a rescheduled game with Süsserfuss due to turf conflicts, the guys are keeping their rhythm while looking ahead to what's next.

But don’t let the quiet week fool you — the Men are staying sharp with training sessions dialed in, all eyes on their next huge test: the League Cup Semi-Final.

Looking Ahead: Regular Season Rolls On, Semi-Final Awaits

🚨 Next Up for the Men: League Cup Semi-Final
📆 June 17
🆚 Akron United
🏟️ German Family Society of Akron

This is the big one. The boys are one win away from the Stimulus Cup Finals, and everything they’ve worked for comes down to 90 intense minutes. With rest, focus, and form on their side, expect a battle in Akron that you won’t want to miss.

⚽ Next Up for the Women: Midweek Momentum
📆 June 18
🆚 Mansfield Liederkranz
🏟️ Buckeye Valley High School

Back at home and ready to rally, the Rising Women will look to shake off the narrow Week 6 loss with a strong performance against Mansfield. The fans can expect goals, grit, and a fired-up squad looking to reclaim their winning ways.

Whether you’re a longtime supporter or just finding your way to the double blue, now is the time to show up, show out, and shout loud.

This club is building something special — and the story’s just getting good.

Up. The. Rising. 

Week 5: Women Dominate, Men Punch Ticket

Week 5 Recap: Women Dominate, Men Punch Ticket to League Cup Semis
By Your Delaware Rising FC Supporter Extraordinaire

Week 5 was one for the books. The Women’s team delivered a jaw-dropping performance on the road, while the Men took care of business in a high-stakes League Cup showdown. Confidence is soaring, goals are flowing, and the Delaware is Rising! 

Women’s Team: Statement Win on the Road

What we witnessed this week was nothing short of dominance. The Delaware Rising Women overwhelmed their opponents in an 8-0 rout that showcased the depth and dynamism of this squad.

Here’s how the scoring unfolded:

• Rileigh Glassburn, assisted by Emma Barnhart, opened the floodgates.

• Ava Bruns, also set up by Barnhart, doubled the advantage.

• Ashley Green finished from an Alexis Ivory assist.

• Then Ivory got in on the scoring, fed beautifully by Kindall Duke.

• Kindall Duke took over from there, scoring and assisting seemingly at will. She added her first of two goals thanks to a pass from Lindsey Whitmore.

• Kasey Duke found the net next, with another dime from Kindall.

• Ivory secured her brace with yet another assist from Kindall.

• And finally, Kindall sealed the deal with her second goal to make it eight.
  

With 2 goals and 3 assists, the clear Player of the Match was Kindall Duke, who continues to be a nightmare for opposing defenses and a fan favorite for us.

Men’s Team: League Cup Statement Win

No bye week after all — and no mercy either.

The Delaware Rising Men’s team stepped into their League Cup quarterfinal matchup against Mansfield Liederkranz with purpose and walked away with a dominant 3-0 win at Otterbein University.

• The opener came from Aidan Shepardson, assisted by Landon Kuhn.

• Shepardson struck again shortly after, this time with help from Brady Smith.

• The third and final goal was slotted home by Quinn Berry, once again set up by Landon Kuhn, who had himself a brilliant performance.
  

Aidan Shepardson was an easy choice for Player of the Match — with 2 goals, he led the charge and delivered when it mattered most.

This win now propels Delaware Rising into the League Cup Semifinals, where they’ll face Akron United FC. The stakes just got higher, but so did the energy.

Looking Ahead: Eyes on the Rise

🟦 Women’s Team @ Ohio City SC
📆 Saturday, June 15
🕒 3:00 PM
📍 Benedictine High School, Cleveland

Another road test awaits our women, but this group has proven they’re road warriors. With the form they’re in, anything feels possible.

🟦 Men’s Team vs. Süsserfuss Ballverein
📆 Date & Time: TBD
📍 Stay tuned for location details

One team steamrolling. Another one surging through the cup. Delaware Rising is cooking, and the summer is just heating up.

As always — bring the noise, bring the blue, and UP THE RISING.

Week 4: Big Win, Bigger Momentum

Week 4 Recap: Big Wins, Bigger Momentum for Delaware Rising FC
By Your Dedicated Delaware Rising FC Supporter

Week 4 brought goals, grit, and another wave of momentum for Delaware Rising FC. 

Let’s break it down.

Women’s Team: Six Goals, One Statement Win

The Rising Women were back and absolutely flying this weekend, picking up a commanding 6-1 win over Panthers FC. From start to finish, the match was all DRFC — sharp passing, relentless pressure, and a real display of team chemistry.

This one was a showcase of shared brilliance:

• Megan Michels opened the scoring, calmly finishing off a crisp corner from Erin Hudson.

• Kindall Duke followed with a fantastic goal.

• Lindsey Castillo slotted home another, this time from a smart assist by Avery Curtin.

• Then came Ally Curtin, taking matters into her own hands with a goal.

• Alexis Ivory added to the tally, set up perfectly by Avery Settles.

• And to close it out, Ashley Green tucked away the sixth, assisted by Kasey Duke.
  

The Player of the Match? Lindsey Castillo — composed, clinical, and consistently dangerous. Her presence on the ball changed the game, and her finish was textbook.

This squad is heating up at the right time — and if you're not watching them play yet, you're seriously missing out.

Men’s Team: A Win by Forfeit, but the Water Still Rises

Sometimes, a win is a win — even when it doesn’t come the way we’d hoped. The Rising Men were set to clash with Stark County United, but the visitors were forced to forfeit due to a lack of available players, resulting in a 3-0 victory for Delaware.

It’s not how the team wanted to earn points, but the result helps build momentum after a hard-fought Week 3 and keeps the squad fresh and focused on what's next — and what’s next is a big one.

Looking Ahead: All Eyes on the Cup and a Big Test for the Women

🚨 Next Up for the Men: League Cup Showdown
📆 June 3
🆚 Mansfield Liederkranz
🏟️ Location: Otterbein University

This isn't a regular league match — it's a League Cup battle, and the Rising will be looking to make a statement. With fresh legs and plenty of attacking firepower, expect the boys to come out firing.

⚽ Next Up for the Women: Major League Test
📆 June 7
🆚 Twinsburg United
🏟️ Location: Tiger Stadium

Twinsburg will be a real challenge, but this Rising team is riding high off a dominant Week 4. With goals coming from all over the pitch and chemistry growing stronger every match, confidence will be key heading into this matchup.

Whether you're following from the stands or streaming from home, there's never been a better time to support your local club. Week 4 showed us just how much talent and spirit Delaware Rising FC brings to the field. And trust me — the best is still to come.

Let’s pack the stands, raise the noise, and keep this energy rolling.

Week 8: Delaware Rising vs. City of Ohio SC

DRFC had a match against top of the league City of Ohio SC this past weekend and were looking to get another win this week. It was the third game in 7 days, and the guys had yet to lose. They came out looking decent in warm-ups while City of Ohio's players slowly trickled in. The game started once they had 11 guys on the field, and we were underway. An explosive start, say DRFC created a couple of chances, but they were unlucky, and the score remained at 0's. It didn't take too long for the game's first goal to go in. City of Ohio attacker shot it, and it took a weird deflection off a Rising Defender before going in. Everyone was shocked and confused about how it went in, but the score was 1-0 in favor of the league leaders. Half time came around, and the guys knew they were still in it. They just needed to finish chances. The guys began to find more footing and gain possession, but it wasn't enough to score. Then City of Ohio hit on a counter-attack, and with a cross into the middle, they had an easy tap-in to go up 2-0. Making the mountain to climb just a bit bigger. The game began to wind down, and City of Ohio had scored another to go up 3-0, which ended up being the final score. The guys fall this time but go again next week in a crucial match against Ambassadors.