PEORIA, Ill. — Peoria City, a USL League Two soccer team that was set to begin play in the summer of 2020, has announced the inaugural season will be postponed for a second time.
“With the uncertainties of the COVID-19 pandemic still clouding the ability to effectively and safely manage operations, Peoria City has announced it will delay its inaugural season in USL League Two until 2022,” read a statement from Peoria City.
All seven teams in the Southwest Division, in which Peoria City will compete, have opted out of the 2021 season.
“Current restrictions and protocols prevent Peoria City from providing the experience for players and fans alike that the club has identified as its primary focus,” the statement said.
“The goal from the beginning has been to showcase the nation’s top amateur soccer players, while providing the residents of Central Illinois another first-class entertainment experience that includes more than just a soccer match.”
The club cited current restrictions by state and local governments, as well as Bradley University, for reasons of postponing the season until the full game-day experience can be had.
“The club’s ownership group and local investors remain committed to making Peoria City a premier franchise in USL League Two once the nation and Central Illinois region are no longer restricted by pandemic mitigation protocols,” the statement said.
League Two is the top pre-professional league in North America.
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