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Forward Madison FC has re-signed 25-year-old midfielder Brandon Eaton for its 2020 season, the club announced Tuesday. Eaton spent two months sidelined with a knee injury last year, but impressed the Flamingos’ coaching staff with his attitude during rehabilitation and his performances when he came back.

According to head coach Daryl Shore, Eaton’s desire and work rate stood out in 2019. 

“When Brandon was healthy, there were moments when he was in our first eleven,” Shore said. We felt like he deserved a chance to be back in our roster and deserved a chance to have a bigger role.”

Eaton originally signed for Forward Madison as a defensive midfielder, but adapted to a role further up the field as his passing ability became evident as an asset for the team’s attack. Eaton scored a goal in last year’s U.S. Open Cup and provided two assists in USL League One play. 

“The injury was a major setback, but throughout the whole rehabilitation process I stayed positive,” Eaton said. “I’m super excited for next season. It should be special again.”

Eaton began his professional career in 2017 with the Richmond Kickers before moving to the Flamingos in 2019. According to Shore, Eaton’s upbeat outlook during tough times showed he has the character to belong in the squad.

“Brandon is a player we felt was important to have in our team,” Shore said. “He’s not only a good soccer player, but a great person, and someone I know understands that our organization.”

Forward Madison FC has re-signed 25-year-old midfielder Brandon Eaton for its 2020 season, the club announced Tuesday. Eaton spent two months sidelined with a knee injury last year, but impressed the Flamingos’ coaching staff with his attitude during rehabilitation and his performances when he came back.

According to head coach Daryl Shore, Eaton’s desire and work rate stood out in 2019. 

“When Brandon was healthy, there were moments when he was in our first eleven,” Shore said. We felt like he deserved a chance to be back in our roster and deserved a chance to have a bigger role.”

Eaton originally signed for Forward Madison as a defensive midfielder, but adapted to a role further up the field as his passing ability became evident as an asset for the team’s attack. Eaton scored a goal in last year’s U.S. Open Cup and provided two assists in USL League One play. 

“The injury was a major setback, but throughout the whole rehabilitation process I stayed positive,” Eaton said. “I’m super excited for next season. It should be special again.”

Eaton began his professional career in 2017 with the Richmond Kickers before moving to the Flamingos in 2019. According to Shore, Eaton’s upbeat outlook during tough times showed he has the character to belong in the squad.

“Brandon is a player we felt was important to have in our team,” Shore said. “He’s not only a good soccer player, but a great person, and someone I know understands that our organization.”

Season tickets for Forward Madison FC’s 2020 season are now available! Get yours by calling 608-204-0855 or visit https://www.forwardmadisonfc.com/season-tickets.

Season tickets for Forward Madison FC’s 2020 season are now available! Get yours by calling 608-204-0855 or visit https://www.forwardmadisonfc.com/season-tickets.

Forward Madison will host major German soccer team FC Augsburg in an exhibition match on Saturday, May 23, the club announced Saturday. Augsburg competes in the Bundesliga, Germany’s highest level of soccer, and boasts a roster of players with international pedigrees. 

According to Forward Madison COO Conor Caloia, the Flamingos’ exhibition with Augsburg gives fans a chance to see world-class soccer at Breese Stevens Field.

"We're thrilled to be able to bring a major German club like FC Augsburg to Madison in 2020," Caloia said. “This game will be one of the highlights of our season, and is an outstanding addition to our season ticket package. Augsburg is a huge team, and I can't wait for them to see what Forward Madison is all about."

Forward Madison season ticket holders will have the FC Augsburg game automatically included in their 2020 packages. Season tickets are currently available to buy online. Non-season ticket holders will be able to buy individual tickets starting Wednesday, Jan. 15 at 3 p.m. CT. 

Read: "Who are FC Augsburg, Forward Madison's German guests?"

FC Augsburg is one of the largest soccer clubs in Germany, boasting over 12,000 members. The Fuggerstädter have played in the Bundesliga since 2011, achieving a club-record finish of fifth place in 2015. Its players include the likes of Stephan Lichtsteiner, who won seven Italian Serie A titles with Juventus, played for Arsenal last year and has competed in three FIFA World Cups for Switzerland. 

Forward’s match against FC Augsburg is the first of several high-profile exhibition games the club will unveil for its 2020 season. In their inaugural year, the Flamingos hosted Germany’s Hertha Berlin, Mexico’s Leones Negros and Major League Soccer’s Minnesota United.  

The game is scheduled to kick off at 7 p.m.

Forward Madison will host major German soccer team FC Augsburg in an exhibition match on Saturday, May 23, the club announced Saturday. Augsburg competes in the Bundesliga, Germany’s highest level of soccer, and boasts a roster of players with international pedigrees. 

According to Forward Madison COO Conor Caloia, the Flamingos’ exhibition with Augsburg gives fans a chance to see world-class soccer at Breese Stevens Field.

“We’re thrilled to be able to bring a major German club like FC Augsburg to Madison in 2020,” Caloia said. “This game will be one of the highlights of our season, and is an outstanding addition to our season ticket package. Augsburg is a huge team, and I can’t wait for them to see what Forward Madison is all about.”

Forward Madison season ticket holders will have the FC Augsburg game automatically included in their 2020 packages. Season tickets are currently available to buy online. Non-season ticket holders will be able to buy individual tickets starting Wednesday, Jan. 15 at 3 p.m. CT. 

Read: “Who are FC Augsburg, Forward Madison’s German guests?”

FC Augsburg is one of the largest soccer clubs in Germany, boasting over 12,000 members. The Fuggerstädter have played in the Bundesliga since 2011, achieving a club-record finish of fifth place in 2015. Its players include the likes of Stephan Lichtsteiner, who won seven Italian Serie A titles with Juventus, played for Arsenal last year and has competed in three FIFA World Cups for Switzerland. 

Forward’s match against FC Augsburg is the first of several high-profile exhibition games the club will unveil for its 2020 season. In their inaugural year, the Flamingos hosted Germany’s Hertha Berlin, Mexico’s Leones Negros and Major League Soccer’s Minnesota United.  

The game is scheduled to kick off at 7 p.m.

Season tickets for Forward Madison FC’s 2020 season are now available! Get yours by calling 608-204-0855 or visit https://www.forwardmadisonfc.com/season-tickets.

Season tickets for Forward Madison FC’s 2020 season are now available! Get yours by calling 608-204-0855 or visit https://www.forwardmadisonfc.com/season-tickets.

It's now official: Forward Madison will welcome FC Augsburg on May 23 for a major exhibition game at Breese Stevens Field. But who are FC Augsburg, currently 10th place in the German Bundesliga? We're here to give you the lowdown…

FC Augsburg is located, naturally, in Augsburg, one of the largest cities in the Bavarian region of southwestern Germany. Augsburg was founded by the Romans in 15 B.C.E. and is named for the Roman emperor Augustus, but the city's current look originated much later; if you visit, you'll find Augsburg dotted by dotted centuries-old churches and castles that help paint the picture of a historic place. 

The city's soccer team was established in 1907 as FC Allemania and later BC Augsburg, but the current iteration began in 1969, when that club merged with the city's other major team, TSV Schwaben.

The newly-formed FC Augsburg spent its first several decades in the lower tiers of German soccer, eventually running close to financial ruin in the 1990s. However, the new millennium marked a turnaround for FCA, which achieved its first-ever promotion to the Bundesliga – the German first division – in 2011.

Since then, FC Augsburg haven't looked back. The Fuggerstädter made history in the 2014/15 season, finishing in a record-high fifth place and booking a ticket to the next year's Europa League, where they would eventually be eliminated in the knockout rounds by Liverpool.

FC Augsburg currently boast a litany of international stars, including Stephan Lichtsteiner, who won seven Italian Serie A titles with Juventus, played for Arsenal last season and has competed in three FIFA World Cups for Switzerland.

Other key players include Phillip Max (pictured), one of the most consistent left backs in the league; André Hahn, named in the provisional Germany squad for the 2014 World Cup; and Iceland international Alfreð Finnbogason, who led the team in goals last year.

FC Augsburg plays its home games in the 30,660-seat WWK Arena, which opened in 2009 and has hosted games at the Women's World Cup.

Like Forward Madison, FC Augsburg is heavily invested in its local community. According to the club's website, the club "opposes and takes action against hostility to foreigners and racism," and "supports socially deprived individuals through various social commitments."

We can't wait to welcome FC Augsburg to Breese Stevens Field this May!

It’s now official: Forward Madison will welcome FC Augsburg on May 23 for a major exhibition game at Breese Stevens Field. But who are FC Augsburg, currently 10th place in the German Bundesliga? We’re here to give you the lowdown…

FC Augsburg is located, naturally, in Augsburg, one of the largest cities in the Bavarian region of southwestern Germany. Augsburg was founded by the Romans in 15 B.C.E. and is named for the Roman emperor Augustus, but the city’s current look originated much later; if you visit, you’ll find Augsburg dotted by dotted centuries-old churches and castles that help paint the picture of a historic place. 

The city’s soccer team was established in 1907 as FC Allemania and later BC Augsburg, but the current iteration began in 1969, when that club merged with the city’s other major team, TSV Schwaben.

The newly-formed FC Augsburg spent its first several decades in the lower tiers of German soccer, eventually running close to financial ruin in the 1990s. However, the new millennium marked a turnaround for FCA, which achieved its first-ever promotion to the Bundesliga – the German first division – in 2011.

Since then, FC Augsburg haven’t looked back. The Fuggerstädter made history in the 2014/15 season, finishing in a record-high fifth place and booking a ticket to the next year’s Europa League, where they would eventually be eliminated in the knockout rounds by Liverpool.

FC Augsburg currently boast a litany of international stars, including Stephan Lichtsteiner, who won seven Italian Serie A titles with Juventus, played for Arsenal last season and has competed in three FIFA World Cups for Switzerland.

Other key players include Phillip Max (pictured), one of the most consistent left backs in the league; André Hahn, named in the provisional Germany squad for the 2014 World Cup; and Iceland international Alfreð Finnbogason, who led the team in goals last year.

FC Augsburg plays its home games in the 30,660-seat WWK Arena, which opened in 2009 and has hosted games at the Women’s World Cup.

Like Forward Madison, FC Augsburg is heavily invested in its local community. According to the club’s website, the club “opposes and takes action against hostility to foreigners and racism,” and “supports socially deprived individuals through various social commitments.”

We can’t wait to welcome FC Augsburg to Breese Stevens Field this May!

Season tickets for Forward Madison FC’s 2020 season are now available! Get yours by calling 608-204-0855 or visit https://www.forwardmadisonfc.com/season-tickets.

Season tickets for Forward Madison FC’s 2020 season are now available! Get yours by calling 608-204-0855 or visit https://www.forwardmadisonfc.com/season-tickets.

Forward Madison FC has made 27-year-old winger Jamael Cox its first new signing for 2020, the club announced Saturday. Cox, who played 23 games for USL League One’s FC Tucson last year, joins seven re-signed Flamingos on the team’s second-season squad.

According to Head Coach Daryl Shore, Cox’s speed and awareness will bring a fresh attacking dynamic to Breese Stevens Field.

“We targeted Jamael from day one of the offseason as somebody we wanted on our team,” Shore said. “As a wide player, Jamael does a good job of stretching defenses and running in behind, which gives us more options when building our attack.”

Read: "This is how the Stars aligned for FMFC's Jamael Cox"

Cox grew up in Tacoma, Wash., and developed his game as a member of the Seattle Sounders academy. He began his professional career at just 20 years old, joining the Tampa Bay Rowdies in 2013.

After playing several years of professional indoor soccer with the Tacoma Stars, Cox returned to the outdoor game last year with FC Tucson and became an integral member of the squad, making 18 starts and providing three goals and three assists.

After leaving Arizona, Cox said Forward’s fan support made Madison a preferred destination.

“The first time FC Tucson visited Forward Madison, I was like, ‘Wow, this is what it’s all about,’” Cox said. “The fans were engaged in the game the whole time, they had amazing support, and it was just a great setup. I was like, I want to be here.”

Cox’s signing adds one more weapon to Shore’s attacking arsenal, which already includes Jiro Barriga Toyama, Paulo Júnior and Don Smart. According to Cox, he’ll be up for the challenge.

“Whatever you need me to do, I’m going to do,” Cox said. “I’m going to give it my all every single time I’m on the field.”

Forward Madison FC has made 27-year-old winger Jamael Cox its first new signing for 2020, the club announced Saturday. Cox, who played 23 games for USL League One’s FC Tucson last year, joins seven re-signed Flamingos on the team’s second-season squad.

According to Head Coach Daryl Shore, Cox’s speed and awareness will bring a fresh attacking dynamic to Breese Stevens Field.

“We targeted Jamael from day one of the offseason as somebody we wanted on our team,” Shore said. “As a wide player, Jamael does a good job of stretching defenses and running in behind, which gives us more options when building our attack.”

Read: “This is how the Stars aligned for FMFC’s Jamael Cox”

Cox grew up in Tacoma, Wash., and developed his game as a member of the Seattle Sounders academy. He began his professional career at just 20 years old, joining the Tampa Bay Rowdies in 2013.

After playing several years of professional indoor soccer with the Tacoma Stars, Cox returned to the outdoor game last year with FC Tucson and became an integral member of the squad, making 18 starts and providing three goals and three assists.

After leaving Arizona, Cox said Forward’s fan support made Madison a preferred destination.

“The first time FC Tucson visited Forward Madison, I was like, ‘Wow, this is what it’s all about,’” Cox said. “The fans were engaged in the game the whole time, they had amazing support, and it was just a great setup. I was like, I want to be here.”

Cox’s signing adds one more weapon to Shore’s attacking arsenal, which already includes Jiro Barriga Toyama, Paulo Júnior and Don Smart. According to Cox, he’ll be up for the challenge.

“Whatever you need me to do, I’m going to do,” Cox said. “I’m going to give it my all every single time I’m on the field.”

Jamael's signing will be confirmed pending league and federation approval. Season tickets for Forward Madison FC’s 2020 season are now available! Get yours by calling 608-204-0855 or visit https://www.forwardmadisonfc.com/season-tickets.

Jamael’s signing will be confirmed pending league and federation approval. Season tickets for Forward Madison FC’s 2020 season are now available! Get yours by calling 608-204-0855 or visit https://www.forwardmadisonfc.com/season-tickets.

For Jamael Cox, this is a moment that may never have happened.

On December 21, Cox, a 27-year-old winger, had reason to celebrate as he became the first new signing to join the ranks of Forward Madison’s 2020 roster. After going from phenom to free agent, Cox relied on his patience and persistence to get a second lease on his soccer life. And this time, he’s ready to take full advantage.

This is the story of how Jamael Cox went from Wilderness to Wisconsin.

The Next Big Thing

Growing up in Tacoma, Wash., soccer wasn’t always the predominant sport, but Jamael Cox knew from the start that it was the one for him.

“I tried basketball, but my height didn’t really favor [me],” Cox said. “I also tried baseball, but I was too scared to get in the batter’s box.”

Cox’s older brother, Raphael, also played soccer, so Jamael naturally followed in his footsteps.

As it turned out, both siblings were very good at it. Raphael turned pro while Jamael was still in high school, winning MLS Cup with Real Salt Lake in 2009. The next year, Jamael got his hands on a trophy of his own, capturing the Washington high school state championship.

As Cox continued to develop, his career continued to grow. He redshirted during his freshman year at Highline College to play for the Seattle Sounders’ academy team, and the next year left the country to go on trial with 1. FC Nürnberg in Germany and Rangers FC in Scotland.

After returning home, Cox decided he needed to take the next step. Raphael, who was by that time playing with the Tampa Bay Rowdies in the North American Soccer League, gave Jamael’s tape to his coaches. They liked what they saw, so in 2013, the 20-year-old Cox made the decision to leave Highline and start his professional career.

Reflecting on it now, Cox admits he was stepping into the unknown.

“I think it was a risk for sure,” Cox said. “It was very hard. I talked with my parents, I talked with my brother, and they said whatever makes you feel more comfortable, whatever you feel in your gut, you should do.”

For Jamael Cox, this is a moment that may never have happened.

On December 21, Cox, a 27-year-old winger, had reason to celebrate as he became the first new signing to join the ranks of Forward Madison’s 2020 roster. After going from phenom to free agent, Cox relied on his patience and persistence to get a second lease on his soccer life. And this time, he’s ready to take full advantage.

This is the story of how Jamael Cox went from Wilderness to Wisconsin.

The Next Big Thing

Growing up in Tacoma, Wash., soccer wasn’t always the predominant sport, but Jamael Cox knew from the start that it was the one for him.

“I tried basketball, but my height didn’t really favor [me],” Cox said. “I also tried baseball, but I was too scared to get in the batter’s box.”

Cox’s older brother, Raphael, also played soccer, so Jamael naturally followed in his footsteps.

As it turned out, both siblings were very good at it. Raphael turned pro while Jamael was still in high school, winning MLS Cup with Real Salt Lake in 2009. The next year, Jamael got his hands on a trophy of his own, capturing the Washington high school state championship.

As Cox continued to develop, his career continued to grow. He redshirted during his freshman year at Highline College to play for the Seattle Sounders’ academy team, and the next year left the country to go on trial with 1. FC Nürnberg in Germany and Rangers FC in Scotland.

After returning home, Cox decided he needed to take the next step. Raphael, who was by that time playing with the Tampa Bay Rowdies in the North American Soccer League, gave Jamael’s tape to his coaches. They liked what they saw, so in 2013, the 20-year-old Cox made the decision to leave Highline and start his professional career.

Reflecting on it now, Cox admits he was stepping into the unknown.

“I think it was a risk for sure,” Cox said. “It was very hard. I talked with my parents, I talked with my brother, and they said whatever makes you feel more comfortable, whatever you feel in your gut, you should do.”

The Wilderness

Upon his arrival in Tampa Bay, Cox stepped into a locker room with some of the most established names in lower-league soccer: Georgi Hristov, signed from Bulgaria, would win the league MVP award; Carl Cort had over two decades of experience in English soccer; Luke Mulholland has gone on to build a career with Real Salt Lake.

“There was so much information coming in and I took all of it in,” Cox said. “All I could do was just watch, learn for when my time came.”

In the end, though, Cox’s time didn’t really come in Tampa Bay. He played in just one game in 2013, coming off the bench for the final minutes of a late-season loss to Fort Lauderdale.

Although Cox hadn’t really expected to play much in a squad full of veterans, he’d been hoping the club would keep faith in him and renew his contract. Unfortunately, it didn’t happen. With his options limited, Cox became a man without a team.

“I went into a lot of preseasons, those didn’t work,” Cox said. “There were a lot of rough times, just thinking that I wasn’t really good enough or no one wanted me, [that] no one liked my style of play. It’s very difficult when you’re team-less for a certain amount of years in outdoor when that’s your number one passion.”

In 2014, Cox’s career stalled. Without a professional contract, he returned home to the Seattle Sounders U-23s and started to consider whether he wanted to keep going. His family, though, and in particular Raphael, encouraged Cox to follow his dreams. 

“My brother helped me a lot,” Cox said. “He kept on saying, ‘Don’t worry about it, you’ll fit in where you’re going to fit in.’” 

Ultimately, Raphael’s advice and Jamael’s persistence was enough to keep him going.

“I was just waiting for my next opportunity,” he said.

The Wilderness

Upon his arrival in Tampa Bay, Cox stepped into a locker room with some of the most established names in lower-league soccer: Georgi Hristov, signed from Bulgaria, would win the league MVP award; Carl Cort had over two decades of experience in English soccer; Luke Mulholland has gone on to build a career with Real Salt Lake.

“There was so much information coming in and I took all of it in,” Cox said. “All I could do was just watch, learn for when my time came.”

In the end, though, Cox’s time didn’t really come in Tampa Bay. He played in just one game in 2013, coming off the bench for the final minutes of a late-season loss to Fort Lauderdale.

Although Cox hadn’t really expected to play much in a squad full of veterans, he’d been hoping the club would keep faith in him and renew his contract. Unfortunately, it didn’t happen. With his options limited, Cox became a man without a team.

“I went into a lot of preseasons, those didn’t work,” Cox said. “There were a lot of rough times, just thinking that I wasn’t really good enough or no one wanted me, [that] no one liked my style of play. It’s very difficult when you’re team-less for a certain amount of years in outdoor when that’s your number one passion.”

In 2014, Cox’s career stalled. Without a professional contract, he returned home to the Seattle Sounders U-23s and started to consider whether he wanted to keep going. His family, though, and in particular Raphael, encouraged Cox to follow his dreams. 

“My brother helped me a lot,” Cox said. “He kept on saying, ‘Don’t worry about it, you’ll fit in where you’re going to fit in.’” 

Ultimately, Raphael’s advice and Jamael’s persistence was enough to keep him going.

“I was just waiting for my next opportunity,” he said.

The Stars Align

After playing the waiting game, Cox’s hoped-for opportunity did materialize, if in perhaps an unexpected way.

In 2015, Darren Sawatzky, Cox’s coach with the Sounders U-23s, accepted a job with the Tacoma Stars, a professional indoor team. Although Cox had only played outdoor before, the Stars were based in his hometown, and Sawatzky saw potential in his former player.

The Stars had aligned.

Back in Tacoma, Cox finally found regular playing time, and success soon followed. Cox scored goal after goal, becoming a key contributor to the team. When the season ended, he signed back on for the following year, and has continued playing with the Stars ever since. As of 2019, he has 39 goals in 57 matches.    

Even with things going in the right direction, though, Cox retained his dream of returning to the outdoor game. During Stars offseasons, he played for the Burlingame Dragons in what is now USL League Two. He continued to impress when it counted, scoring in both the 2016 and 2017 U.S. Open Cup tournaments for Burlingame.

In 2019, his patience finally paid off.

Sawatzky, who had moved on to become FC Tucson’s manager in the newly-formed USL League One, signed Cox to his team. After six long years of waiting, Cox was back where he belonged.

“It was a lot of weight lifted off my shoulders,” Cox said. “Playing is just what I love to do.”

The Stars Align

After playing the waiting game, Cox’s hoped-for opportunity did materialize, if in perhaps an unexpected way.

In 2015, Darren Sawatzky, Cox’s coach with the Sounders U-23s, accepted a job with the Tacoma Stars, a professional indoor team. Although Cox had only played outdoor before, the Stars were based in his hometown, and Sawatzky saw potential in his former player.

The Stars had aligned.

Back in Tacoma, Cox finally found regular playing time, and success soon followed. Cox scored goal after goal, becoming a key contributor to the team. When the season ended, he signed back on for the following year, and has continued playing with the Stars ever since. As of 2019, he has 39 goals in 57 matches.    

Even with things going in the right direction, though, Cox retained his dream of returning to the outdoor game. During Stars offseasons, he played for the Burlingame Dragons in what is now USL League Two. He continued to impress when it counted, scoring in both the 2016 and 2017 U.S. Open Cup tournaments for Burlingame.

In 2019, his patience finally paid off.

Sawatzky, who had moved on to become FC Tucson’s manager in the newly-formed USL League One, signed Cox to his team. After six long years of waiting, Cox was back where he belonged.

“It was a lot of weight lifted off my shoulders,” Cox said. “Playing is just what I love to do.”

Taking Flight

At 26 years old, Cox was a more mature player than the young hotshot who had left college to go pro early. With FC Tucson, he became one of the integral members of the squad, appearing in 23 games and providing three goals and three assists.

Although he had often played out wide, Sawatzky often asked Cox to tuck in as an attacking midfielder. Even out of his natural position, Cox performed well, taking his instructions in stride without complaint.

“Whatever you need me to do, I’m going to do,” Cox said. “I’m going to give it my all and I’m going to try to help the team win every single game.”

One moment that stood out to Cox during his season in the desert, though, came far away from Arizona. When FC Tucson visited Breese Stevens Field on June 15, Cox caught a glimpse of what his future could hold.

“The first time we came to Madison, it was an experience I won’t ever forget,” Cox said. “I was like, ‘Wow, this is what it’s all about.’ The fans were engaged in the game the whole time, they had amazing support, and it was just a great setup, I was like, I want to be here.”

Fast-forward to the end of the season and Cox would get his chance to make the move. Raphael helped get him Head Coach Daryl Shore’s number, and the two started negotiating a deal.

For Shore, adding Cox was a way to bring in another winger, adding speed and awareness as a way to complement the abilities of FMFC’s current wide men, including 2019 headliners Don Smart and Paulo Júnior. For Cox, it’s another step forward in his career – and another reminder that his persistence in the face of adversity was worth the struggle.  

“I’m not going to ever take it for granted again, because I know what people can go through without having a team for that long, Cox said. “It’s going to be amazing. I can’t wait for every single game.”

Taking Flight

At 26 years old, Cox was a more mature player than the young hotshot who had left college to go pro early. With FC Tucson, he became one of the integral members of the squad, appearing in 23 games and providing three goals and three assists.

Although he had often played out wide, Sawatzky often asked Cox to tuck in as an attacking midfielder. Even out of his natural position, Cox performed well, taking his instructions in stride without complaint.

“Whatever you need me to do, I’m going to do,” Cox said. “I’m going to give it my all and I’m going to try to help the team win every single game.”

One moment that stood out to Cox during his season in the desert, though, came far away from Arizona. When FC Tucson visited Breese Stevens Field on June 15, Cox caught a glimpse of what his future could hold.

“The first time we came to Madison, it was an experience I won’t ever forget,” Cox said. “I was like, ‘Wow, this is what it’s all about.’ The fans were engaged in the game the whole time, they had amazing support, and it was just a great setup, I was like, I want to be here.”

Fast-forward to the end of the season and Cox would get his chance to make the move. Raphael helped get him Head Coach Daryl Shore’s number, and the two started negotiating a deal.

For Shore, adding Cox was a way to bring in another winger, adding speed and awareness as a way to complement the abilities of FMFC’s current wide men, including 2019 headliners Don Smart and Paulo Júnior. For Cox, it’s another step forward in his career – and another reminder that his persistence in the face of adversity was worth the struggle.  

“I’m not going to ever take it for granted again, because I know what people can go through without having a team for that long, Cox said. “It’s going to be amazing. I can’t wait for every single game.”

Season tickets for Forward Madison FC’s 2020 season are now available! Get yours by calling 608-204-0855 or visit https://www.forwardmadisonfc.com/season-tickets.

Season tickets for Forward Madison FC’s 2020 season are now available! Get yours by calling 608-204-0855 or visit https://www.forwardmadisonfc.com/season-tickets.

It’s official: Forward Madison FC has the best jersey in the world.

On Friday, satellite radio channel SiriusXM FC revealed that FMFC had won its 2019 Kit Competition, with the Flamingos’ pink-patterned alternate jersey earning more than 200,000 votes in its final-round triumph over the Chicago Red Stars of the National Women’s Soccer League.

As a result, Forward Madison has put the jersey – which had been phased out in anticipation of the 2020 season – on sale again for a limited time, complete with a small gold patch denoting its Kit of the Year status.

It’s official: Forward Madison FC has the best jersey in the world.

On Friday, satellite radio channel SiriusXM FC revealed that FMFC had won its 2019 Kit Competition, with the Flamingos’ pink-patterned alternate jersey earning more than 200,000 votes in its final-round triumph over the Chicago Red Stars of the National Women’s Soccer League.

As a result, Forward Madison has put the jersey – which had been phased out in anticipation of the 2020 season – on sale again for a limited time, complete with a small gold patch denoting its Kit of the Year status.

The jersey itself is mostly pink, with a navy-and-white winged pattern running down the front that is intersected by scallops taken from Forward Madison’s crest. The sleeves are solid pink, featuring navy hummel chevrons on the shoulders. The collar includes the words “Full Mingo,” a reference to Forward Madison’s viral Twitter post that has developed into the club’s tagline.

Forward used the kit during its U.S. Open Cup and exhibition games in 2019.

The jersey itself is mostly pink, with a navy-and-white winged pattern running down the front that is intersected by scallops taken from Forward Madison’s crest. The sleeves are solid pink, featuring navy hummel chevrons on the shoulders. The collar includes the words “Full Mingo,” a reference to Forward Madison’s viral Twitter post that has developed into the club’s tagline.

Forward used the kit during its U.S. Open Cup and exhibition games in 2019.

Season tickets for Forward Madison FC’s 2020 season are now available! Get yours by calling 608-204-0855 or visit https://www.forwardmadisonfc.com/season-tickets.

Season tickets for Forward Madison FC’s 2020 season are now available! Get yours by calling 608-204-0855 or visit https://www.forwardmadisonfc.com/season-tickets.

Forward Madison unveiled its 2020 regular season schedule Friday, announcing dates for 28 USL League One matches. The Flamingos will play 14 home games in their second season, supplemented by at least four exhibition matches to be revealed at later points in time.

With League One having grown to 12 members during the offseason, 2020 season will see FMFC play six team three times, with a home-and-away series for the remaining five. The season will run from March to October, with Forward kicking off its home schedule on April 11 against Toronto FC II.

The entirety of the 2020 League One season will be shown live on ESPN+ in the United States.

Forward Madison fans can get tickets for the 2020 season now through season tickets, which include 18 games, or six-game packages. Individual match tickets will go on sale at a later date.

Along with the announcement of its regular season schedule, USL League One also revealed the expansion of its playoff format from four teams to six. The USL League One playoffs will take place in October, with the top two regular season teams receiving first-round byes.

Forward Madison unveiled its 2020 regular season schedule Friday, announcing dates for 28 USL League One matches. The Flamingos will play 14 home games in their second season, supplemented by at least four exhibition matches to be revealed at later points in time.

With League One having grown to 12 members during the offseason, 2020 season will see FMFC play six team three times, with a home-and-away series for the remaining five. The season will run from March to October, with Forward kicking off its home schedule on April 11 against Toronto FC II.

The entirety of the 2020 League One season will be shown live on ESPN+ in the United States.

Forward Madison fans can get tickets for the 2020 season now through season tickets, which include 18 games, or six-game packages. Individual match tickets will go on sale at a later date.

Along with the announcement of its regular season schedule, USL League One also revealed the expansion of its playoff format from four teams to six. The USL League One playoffs will take place in October, with the top two regular season teams receiving first-round byes.

Season tickets for Forward Madison FC’s 2020 season are now available! Get yours by calling 608-204-0855 or visit https://www.forwardmadisonfc.com/season-tickets.

Season tickets for Forward Madison FC’s 2020 season are now available! Get yours by calling 608-204-0855 or visit https://www.forwardmadisonfc.com/season-tickets.

Forward Madison will host a holiday party at the Breese Stevens Field stadium store on Monday, Dec. 23. The party will take place from noon to 4 p.m., giving fans a last chance to buy gifts and spend time with their Forward family before the new year.

The holiday party will feature drinks, a 20-foot flamingo tree, and an appearance from 2019 captain Connor Tobin. Additionally, the club will give a free first drink to fans who bring a non-perishable food item to donate to the River Food Pantry.

Fans are invited to RSVP to the Forward Madison holiday party on Facebook.

Forward Madison will host a holiday party at the Breese Stevens Field stadium store on Monday, Dec. 23. The party will take place from noon to 4 p.m., giving fans a last chance to buy gifts and spend time with their Forward family before the new year.

The holiday party will feature drinks, a 20-foot flamingo tree, and an appearance from 2019 captain Connor Tobin. Additionally, the club will give a free first drink to fans who bring a non-perishable food item to donate to the River Food Pantry.

Fans are invited to RSVP to the Forward Madison holiday party on Facebook.

Season tickets for Forward Madison FC’s 2020 season are now available! Get yours by calling 608-204-0855 or visit https://www.forwardmadisonfc.com/season-tickets.

Season tickets for Forward Madison FC’s 2020 season are now available! Get yours by calling 608-204-0855 or visit https://www.forwardmadisonfc.com/season-tickets.

Forward Madison will play its 2020 USL League One home opener on Saturday, April 11, the club announced Tuesday. The Flamingos will host Toronto FC II – a team Madison beat twice last year – at Breese Stevens Field.

FMFC’s second season will officially begin on March 28, when Forward travel south to square off against the Richmond Kickers. 

Tickets to Forward Madison’s home opener are now available as part of the team’s season ticket and six-game packages. Individual match tickets, as well as a full season schedule, will become available at a later date.

 Along with its USL League One season, Forward Madison will enter the U.S. Open Cup sometime between April 7-9, U.S. Soccer announced last week. That means the Flamingos, if drawn at home, could play their first competitive match at Breese Stevens Field before Toronto comes to town. 

Forward Madison will play its 2020 USL League One home opener on Saturday, April 11, the club announced Tuesday. The Flamingos will host Toronto FC II – a team Madison beat twice last year – at Breese Stevens Field.

FMFC’s second season will officially begin on March 28, when Forward travel south to square off against the Richmond Kickers. 

Tickets to Forward Madison’s home opener are now available as part of the team’s season ticket and six-game packages. Individual match tickets, as well as a full season schedule, will become available at a later date.

 Along with its USL League One season, Forward Madison will enter the U.S. Open Cup sometime between April 7-9, U.S. Soccer announced last week. That means the Flamingos, if drawn at home, could play their first competitive match at Breese Stevens Field before Toronto comes to town. 

Season tickets for Forward Madison FC’s 2020 season are now available! Get yours by calling 608-204-0855 or visit https://www.forwardmadisonfc.com/season-tickets.

Season tickets for Forward Madison FC’s 2020 season are now available! Get yours by calling 608-204-0855 or visit https://www.forwardmadisonfc.com/season-tickets.