American Soccer Club–New York was part of a historic weekend as the Long Island Junior Soccer League Convention returned this past weekend at the Hilton Long Island. The event, which had been on hiatus since the COVID-19 pandemic, made its long-awaited comeback as a two-day convention that attracted thousands of attendees from across the region.
“What an incredible weekend for soccer on Long Island,” said ASC New York Managing Partner and General Manager Jim Kilmeade. “I want to congratulate our partners at the Long Island Junior Soccer League on successfully relaunching the convention and truly galvanizing the soccer community once again.”
One of the highlights of the weekend was the first public appearance of the Fighting Tomcats mascot, Maverick, who was officially introduced to the Long Island soccer community on Saturday. “Words cannot describe how excited I am to be the Fighting Tomcats mascot,” Maverick said.
The name Maverick was inspired by the movie Top Gun, starring Tom Cruise as Pete “Maverick” Mitchell. Cruise’s character famously flew the Grumman F-14 Tomcat, often referred to as the “Fighting Tomcat,” which aligns with ASC New York’s team identity. Maverick is now available for appearances at youth soccer events, school assemblies, and community functions.
Fighting Tomcats players were also on hand throughout the weekend, signing autographs and taking photos with young players in attendance. Fans enjoyed interactive activities, including a prize wheel offering tickets, hats, scarves, and bracelets.
The team participated in demonstrations and meet-and-greet sessions, while ASC New York Head Coach and LIJSL Sporting Director John Fitzgerald spoke multiple times during the convention. “LIJSL and ASC New York are partners supporting players on Long Island,” Fitzgerald said. “The majority of our roster began their soccer journey in LIJSL clubs.”
American Soccer Club–New York will announce additional player signings and schedule details in the coming weeks. The National Premier Soccer League season begins in May, with home matches set to be played at Mitchel Athletic Complex.