OUR STORY
SPIRE FC, formerly known as Pennine United and later FC Evolution, is a premier soccer club based in Cleveland, Ohio, with a legacy of developing young talent and providing top-level competitive opportunities. In May 2022, SPIRE Academy, an elite international boarding school and sports performance center in Geneva, Ohio, acquired FC Evolution, integrating world-class facilities and resources to enhance player development. Following this acquisition, the club rebranded as SPIRE FC Cleveland and quickly established itself as a dominant force in the NE Ohio soccer scene. Operating primarily out of Saint Ignatius High School, the club offers athletes access to elite training environments and high-level competition. SPIRE FC’s structure and philosophy emphasize skill development, character building, and fostering a passion for the game, ensuring every player has the opportunity to reach their full potential both on and off the field. The club’s commitment to excellence is reflected in its achievements, including the SPIRE FC 2006/2005 Black team reaching the USYS National Championship semi-finals, along with multiple teams securing championships in prestigious tournaments like the USYS Ohio State Cup, USYS Midwest Regionals and the Nike Challenge Cup. In the past 2 years over thirty SPIRE FC players have moved on to play college soccer at many of the top college soccer programs in the country. With a strong foundation built on decades of history, and the backing of SPIRE Academy’s unparalleled resources, SPIRE FC continues to shape the future of American soccer, providing a clear pathway for athletes to succeed at collegiate and professional levels.
In 2024, SPIRE FC launched its Women’s Program, marking a significant step forward in our commitment to developing top-tier soccer talent. Under the leadership of Paul Smalley, who brings extensive experience from coaching at the international level and serving as the Director of Women’s Soccer for England’s national setup, the program quickly began making an impact both on and off the field. Smalley’s vast knowledge and strategic approach have been instrumental in building a strong foundation, fostering a culture of excellence, and inspiring players to reach new heights. The women’s teams have already shown remarkable progress, securing early successes in competition and demonstrating resilience, teamwork, and technical growth. Off the pitch, the program is equally thriving — empowering athletes through personalized development plans, leadership training, and pathways to collegiate and professional opportunities. With world-class coaching, cutting-edge facilities, and a supportive environment, SPIRE FC’s Women’s Program is not just shaping skilled players but cultivating confident individuals ready to lead the future of the game. This is just the beginning of an exciting journey, and the momentum is only growing as SPIRE FC cements itself as a powerhouse in women’s soccer.
