New York International FC, a Division 1 team in the prestigious Cosmopolitan Soccer League (CSL), is more than just a football club; it’s a symbol of unity, resilience, and community. Recently promoted from Division 2 after a triumphant season where they clinched both the league title and the John Kilby Cup, NY International stands proudly among storied teams like the New York Pancyprian Freedoms, New York Ukrainians, and Hoboken FC 1912—some of the most historic and competitive clubs in American amateur soccer. However, what truly sets NY International apart isn’t just the victories on the pitch but the profound impact it has off of it.

The Cosmopolitan Soccer League, founded in 1923, is the oldest amateur league in the United States. Over its century-long history, the CSL has been home to numerous teams that have made significant contributions to American soccer, including multiple winners of the US Open Cup, the oldest ongoing national soccer competition in the country. NY International FC’s rapid rise within this league is a testament to the club’s competitive spirit and dedication.

While winning trophies is a central goal for any club, NY International FC’s ascent from Division 2 to Division 1 is also a story of perseverance, strategic planning, and a commitment to building a strong and united team. The journey to the top has been marked by hard-fought matches and standout performances, both individually and collectively. Their recent promotion is not just a victory for the players and staff but also a significant milestone for the club’s supporters and the broader community that rallies behind them.

Words: Christopher F. Minty // @cfminty

New York International FC player Alex Teodorescu (in black).
Photo Credit: SOS Photography

At the heart of NY International FC is a commitment to inclusivity and accessibility. Under the leadership of first team manager Nicholas Platt from England, club president Corentin Claisse from France, and club captain Aaron Forde from Ireland, the team has cultivated a diverse roster of players from around the world. This melting pot of cultures and backgrounds fosters a welcoming environment where players not only become teammates but also lifelong friends. The club’s ethos revolves around breaking down barriers and embracing diversity, both on and off the field. This commitment to inclusivity is evident in their community initiatives and the sense of belonging they offer to every player, regardless of where they come from. It’s a place where football transcends borders and differences, creating a unifying force that brings people together in pursuit of common goals.

This commitment to creating a supportive and inclusive environment extends beyond the pitch. The club’s diverse leadership reflects the international spirit of the team, setting an example of how football can be a powerful tool for cross-cultural understanding and cooperation. NY International FC isn’t just about winning games; it’s about winning hearts and minds by fostering a sense of community among its players, staff, and supporters.

Central to NY International FC’s philosophy is the belief that football can be a vehicle for positive change. The club’s outreach initiatives are grounded in the understanding that sports have the power to bring people together, break down barriers, and create lasting bonds. Whether through fundraising efforts, community service, or simply providing a welcoming environment for players from all walks of life, NY International FC embodies the idea that football is more than just a game.

One of the most poignant aspects of NY International FC’s community outreach is their ongoing tribute to Davide Giri, a beloved player who tragically lost his life in 2021. Davide, a Ph.D. candidate at Columbia University and a key member of the club’s reserve team, was killed on his way home after a training session. His loss was deeply felt throughout the club and beyond.

Simon Czaplinski embraces teammate Jakub Gazi after New York International FC confirmed their promotion.
Photo Credit: SOS Photography

To honor Davide’s memory, NY International FC organizes an annual 5k run in partnership with FitClub NY in Astoria, Queens. This event has grown significantly, drawing hundreds of runners and walkers who come together to celebrate Davide’s life and raise funds for EV❤️NYC, a volunteer-run food pantry and kitchen in New York City. The 5k for Davide has become a cornerstone of the club’s community engagement, reminding everyone that life is precious and that we should celebrate our achievements and loved ones whenever we can. The club’s mantra, “Win for Davide,” echoes this sentiment, driving players to honor his legacy with every game they play.

The 5k for Davide is more than just a memorial; it’s a celebration of the values Davide embodied—dedication, kindness, and a commitment to making the world a better place. Each year, the event not only raises funds for EV❤️NYC but also serves as a powerful reminder of the impact that one individual can have on their community. For NY International FC, it’s a chance to reflect on the importance of giving back and to reaffirm their commitment to supporting those in need.

NY International FC’s commitment to community extends through the actions of its players, many of whom take active roles in various charitable initiatives. One standout example is Will Rawlings, a recent Duke graduate who is set to attend the University of Oxford in the fall of 2024. Will has demonstrated a remarkable dedication to service, organizing a clothing and football boot drive for asylum seekers who lacked access to these basic necessities. With support from his teammates, Will’s initiative provided vital resources to those in need, showcasing the power of sports in fostering community solidarity.

In 2023, Will further extended his commitment to social causes by participating in RAGBRAI, a 500-mile bike ride across Iowa. This grueling challenge was more than just a personal achievement; it was a mission to combat food insecurity in New York City. Through his efforts, Will raised funds for EV❤️NYC and Seed Savers Exchange, providing 800 meals for New Yorkers in need. His actions underscore the club’s values of giving back and making a tangible difference in the lives of others.

Will’s story is just one of many that illustrate the ethos of NY International FC. The club encourages its players to engage with their communities and to use their platforms for positive change. Whether it’s through organizing fundraisers, volunteering at local charities, or simply lending a helping hand to those in need, NY International FC’s players are constantly finding ways to make a difference.

Jakub Gazi (left), Aaron Forde (middle) and Thomas Howse (right).
Photo Credit: SOS Photography

NY International FC’s dedication to addressing food insecurity continued on August 31st, when four of its athletes – Jakub Gazi, Renato Agyemang, Nate Frizzi, and Luke Simboli – embarked on a 150-mile cycling journey from Manhattan to the Montauk Lighthouse. This impressive feat wasn’t just a test of endurance; it was a campaign to raise awareness and funds for EVLovesNYC. Through their combined efforts, they raised $1,220, further reinforcing the club’s commitment to supporting vulnerable communities in New York City.

This ride was a testament to the team’s spirit of camaraderie and their willingness to go the extra mile, both literally and figuratively, to support those in need. The challenge of cycling over 150 miles was not just a physical test but also a powerful statement about the club’s dedication to its values. The funds raised through this initiative went directly to supporting EVLovesNYC’s mission to combat food insecurity in New York City, providing much-needed resources to individuals and families who rely on the pantry’s services.

Mammad Mahmoodi, a co-founder at EVLovesNYC, described NY International’s partnership with EV:

“NYIFC has been a dedicated supporting partner of EVLovesNYC. NYIFC and their players support us in ways big and small: Not only do they organize fundraising events throughout the year, but they also show up at our volunteer-run center and get their hands dirty. They are our big ambassadors, too.”

What makes NY International FC truly special is its unwavering commitment to its core values. The club is not just about winning games; it’s about building a community, supporting those in need, and making a positive impact in the world. This mission is reflected in everything the club does, from its outreach initiatives to the way it operates on the field.

The club’s board—comprising Nicholas Platt, Corentin Claisse, and Aaron Forde, as well as Nicholas Alexandrakos, Gary Philpott, Simon Czaplinski, Martin Serrano, Thomas Howse, and Varun Mehta—plays a crucial role in instilling these values throughout the club. Their diverse backgrounds and shared vision have helped to create an environment where everyone feels welcome, valued, and empowered to make a difference. Under their guidance, NY International FC has not only achieved success on the field but has also become a model for how football clubs can be agents of positive change in New York City. Indeed, NY International FC has, for some, served as a model on how to succeed not only in the CSL but in building a community-focused club.

Pyro show after the promotion-winning game.
Photo Credit: SOS Photography

One of the most powerful aspects of NY International FC is its ability to bring people together from all walks of life. The club’s diverse roster includes players from around the world, each bringing their own unique experiences and perspectives. This diversity is one of the club’s greatest strengths, fostering a culture of inclusion and mutual respect that extends beyond the pitch.

Football, often described as the world’s game, has a unique ability to transcend borders and bring people together. NY International FC embodies this spirit, using the sport as a tool to build bridges between individuals and communities. The club’s commitment to inclusivity and accessibility is not just about creating a welcoming environment for its players; it’s about using football to promote understanding, break down barriers, and connect people in meaningful ways.

New York International FC celebrating their promotion to Division 1.
Photo Credit: SOS Photography

As NY International FC looks to the future, the club remains focused on continuing to build on its strong foundation. The recent promotion to Division 1 is just the beginning; the club has ambitious plans to continue growing and expanding its reach, both on and off the field. This includes exploring new opportunities for community engagement, expanding their outreach initiatives, and finding new ways to support those in need.

Nicholas Platt, the club’s first team manager, thinks the club is in a strong position to continue moving up the ranks. Thinking about the team’s first season in Division 1, Platt said, “We have had a great preseason testing ourselves against established teams,” adding, “the goal is to continue to build on the fantastic season we had last year.” “We want to establish ourselves as a D1 club and make a push for the playoffs. After that, who knows?” NY International FC’s president Corentin Claisse echoed Platt’s remarks, noting, “the promotion to D1 was a successful milestone in our journey that started 5 years ago when we created the club. With the upcoming season at the highest level of amateur football in NY State, we continue to look up and hope to cement our position as one of the best clubs in the metropolitan region.” Thomas Howse, the club’s director of events, said he hoped for a “solid” season, adding that Platt, Forde, Philpott, and others have signed talented, committed players who will help them succeed at the next level.

As the club’s inaugural season in Division 1 unfolds, NY International FC aims to continue its tradition of fostering talent, providing a platform for players to develop their skills and reach their full potential. Equally important, the board, players, and supporters all plan to continue their important work off the field. For NY International and everyone involved, those off-field activities are baked into the club. For NY International, they can’t have one without the other, and long may that continue. The club is a success on the field, and it is a success off it. It brings people together in various ways, acting as a model for other clubs in New York City and beyond.