Professional soccer is set to make a comeback in Oklahoma City as the Oklahoma City Energy Football Club prepares to relaunch its senior team in 2028, reviving a franchise that has been absent from the national stage for several years.
A New Chapter for Oklahoma Soccer
Mark Howard, a former Manchester United midfielder who once wore the Energy colors as a player, now spends his days coaching the club’s youth sides. Howard speaks passionately about the state’s emerging talent, noting that the region’s soccer culture has evolved dramatically over the past decade.
The club’s youth 14 team currently sits fourth in the nation, while the under‑16 squad holds the seventh spot, underscoring a depth of skill that was on display when roughly 2,000 aspiring players turned out for recent tryouts. Howard attributes this surge to a combination of better grassroots infrastructure and the inspirational pull of global tournaments.
After stepping away from professional competition due to restrictive field‑issue regulations, the Energy are poised to return with a purpose‑built stadium that promises modern amenities and a stronger community connection. The new venue is expected to be a catalyst for both fan engagement and player development.
Adding to the momentum, the United States will host the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and Howard predicts that the tournament’s visibility will further accelerate soccer’s growth in Oklahoma. As part of the celebration, two dozen Energy academy players have been selected as flag bearers for three World Cup matches, including the semifinals.
With a clear pathway to professional football, expanding youth programs, and a stadium on the horizon, the relaunched Oklahoma City Energy aims to cement the city’s place on the national soccer map while inspiring the next generation of talent.