A Unexpected Pivot
After two decades on Wall Street, Tom McGill walked away from the trading floor in 2006, driven by a simple frustration: he could not find a place to watch the Champions League final. That night he imagined a different kind of venue, one that would cater to the growing appetite for soccer in the United States.
He settled in Bradley Beach, New Jersey, and opened D'Arcy's Tavern, a modest soccer‑focused bar that quickly attracted local fans. The interior, adorned with jerseys and a signed shirt from Pelé, became a shrine for enthusiasts.
Over the years the tavern has tripled in size, now boasting 25 televisions — including six 75‑inch screens in an outdoor patio — and streams leagues ranging from the Premier League to the Bundesliga. Its walls echo with the chants of supporters during every major tournament.
World Cup Fever
When the 2026 World Cup was awarded to a joint United States‑Mexico‑Canada bid, the pub positioned itself as a hub for fans traveling across the region. Its Instagram following, bolstered by the New York New Jersey Host Committee, now serves as a digital rallying point for the event.
Beyond serving drinks, McGill also coaches the Manasquan High School boys varsity soccer team, a role he has held since 2007, further embedding him in the local sports community.
A New Kind of Gathering
The tavern’s diverse crowd reflects the broader soccer boom, drawing families, former players, and even former colleagues from the financial world who gather to celebrate the sport. The venue’s growth mirrors the nation’s increasing passion for the game, especially as the 2026 World Cup approaches.