When Reno 1868 FC defender Jimmy Ockford and midfielders Luis Felipe and Chris Wehan signed for the Earthquakes in December, it opened a lot of eyes around American soccer to the fact that this unique affiliation paid dividends so early in the process.
Reno, who set numerous USL records during their inaugural campaign, including single-season goals for (75) and largest margin of victory (9-0 vs. LA Galaxy II), has become everything the Quakes could have hoped for.
Led by head coach Ian Russell, a former Quakes player and assistant coach, Reno has effectively been used as an extension of the Quakes’ First Team roster. Young players with potential that aren’t quite ready for MLS, or are simply looking for an opportunity to prove themselves, can spend the season with 1868 FC learning the ropes as a professional while continuing their development at a high level. San Jose has also loaned players in need of regular minutes, like Jackson Yueill and Fatai Alashe, to help keep them sharp before their names are called for MLS action.
San Jose and Reno will put on a show for fans at Avaya Stadium, their first-ever meeting at the fourth-year home of the Quakes, on Saturday, Feb. 10 at 2 p.m. The two battled to a 1-0 Earthquakes win last preseason at Greater Nevada Field, thanks to a sweet Tommy Thompson back-heel that made its way onto the SportsCenter Top-10.
Quakes fans will not only get their first live look at the club’s newest players in a real match setting, but can also watch potential future signings with Reno. After all, the three players making the jump this offseason may just prove to be the tip of the iceberg.
Following a Season Pass Holder presale currently underway, tickets will be made available to the public starting Friday, Jan. 12 at 10 a.m. by clicking here. Main bowl general admission tickets are $20 for Season Pass Holders ($30 for the general public) and club general admission tickets are $50 for Season Pass Holders ($60 for the general public). Parking for this preseason event is $10. Gates will open one hour prior to kickoff.
Don’t miss a unique chance to catch this affiliate friendly right here at Avaya Stadium.
