A New Chapter for Peoria City Soccer
Peoria City’s soccer program is gearing up for an ambitious 2026 campaign, targeting a return to the USL League 2 national championship game. The team will open its season on May 23 at Shea Stadium, hosting Des Moines in a match that sets the tone for a schedule packed with division rivals such as Santa Fe Wanderers, Springfield FC, and others across the Midwest.
A strong roster anchors the squad, headlined by local products Mitch Coughlon and Joseph Heiar, who have developed through the region’s youth pipelines. Their presence adds a familiar flavor to a team that also welcomes back several experienced faces.
International flair arrives via Ghanaian forward Abasa Aremeyaw and Tanzanian midfielder Jackson Kasanzu, both of whom bring professional experience from abroad. Aremeyaw previously showcased his skills in the United Arab Emirates before signing with Philadelphia’s MLS side, while Kasanzu adopts his father’s family name, Simba, meaning lion, as a personal emblem.
The upcoming fixtures include high‑profile clashes against familiar foes, and ticket details along with the full roster are accessible through the club’s official website. Fans can expect a series of competitive encounters that test the squad’s depth and chemistry.
Behind the scenes, staff members such as Mike Paye, Thatcher Hogan and Kayden Hudson coordinate the campaign, while alumni like Joseph Heiar and Max Matarelli contribute to community outreach. The blend of seasoned veterans and emerging talent reflects a strategic push to sustain success.