About Us
Charlotte Rise FC was founded by an Orthopedic Spine Surgeon who played collegiate soccer at a high level. The idea of Rise FC was inspired by the founder’s personal experiences and his recognition of a community need: an outlet for youth to thrive both on and off the soccer field.
Rise FC is committed to providing soccer excellence and the long-term athletic development of youth, both boys and girls. We regularly organize seminars and meetings, collaborating with experts in youth sports development. These sessions aim to educate our players and their families on vital topics such as nutrition, fitness, and injury prevention. We stand by our mission of both development of athletes and people.
At Charlotte Rise FC, we prioritize creating a safe, enjoyable environment where our young players can learn, flourish, and compete. Our professional soccer coaches, backed by years of experience, are dedicated to mentoring and nurturing youth soccer players. We warmly invite players from age groups U5 to U19 to become a part of our family and RISE ABOVE THE REST!
The Coaches
Mike Spangler
Macey Kurtz
Greg Henschel
Greg Henschel
Director of Soccer Coaching
As Rise FC’s Director of Soccer Coaching, Greg provides a unique depth of soccer development experience. Greg has the unique perspective and background of 29 seasons of Head Collegiate Coach, 25+ years of youth soccer coaching, extended time in Europe (working with and studying Chelsea, Vitesse, Real Madrid, Spanish National program), and most importantly raising his 2 daughters though their youth soccer experience. His collegiate and professional playing experience also provides first-hand understanding of what it takes to maximize each players’ potential. Greg oversees every part of Rise FC, serving as each team’s consultant and instructor. In his role he provides guidance and technical, tactical, cultural support ensuring each player & team has vertical integration and progression throughout the youth soccer experience. You will find steady, consistent, common-sense leadership to every scenario in Rise FC. His analytical ability to break down every aspect of the game to age-appropriate concepts and terminology is unique and helps players passion for the game grow. His passion to encourage Rise FC’s teams to “score the next goal” is present in all that the club does. Greg and the Rise FC staff work with unwavering commitment to provide a top-level standard of accountability, development, integrity, and excellence.
Mike Spangler
Macey Kurtz
Macey Kurtz
Youth Soccer Coach
Macey’s unique perspective comes from her strong playing background and years of youth coaching experience. She finished her competitive playing experience playing 4 years with Winthrop University primarily as an outside defender and received All-Big South recognition during her time there. She was also on the Dean’s list and National Society of Collegiate Scholars. During her time in Winthrop athletics, she also served on the Student Athlete Advisory Council and on the Leadership Committee of Fellowship of Christian Athletes. She has been a youth soccer coach influencing & teaching young soccer players since 2017. Her grounded, common-sense approach is paired with her US Soccer coach licensing background to bring a unique, age-appropriate youth soccer learning experience to every Rise FC player. Rise FC players & teams enjoy her ability to communicate clearly and specifically foster tremendously confident players.
Mike Spangler
Greg Henschel
Mike Spangler
Youth Soccer Coach
As Rise FC’s Soccer Coach, Mike brings 18 years of youth soccer coaching background in addition to 20+ years of playing high level soccer including competing in a 3-week international tournament with a youth national team. His caring and engaged approach with every player is a constant in his interaction and demeanor. He has a tremendous ability to reach players to inspire their passion and development in soccer. His completion of his US Soccer licenses ensures your child will receive age-appropriate specific skills, progression, and support. He completed the Adult and Youth Mental Health First Aid license. He intentionally shares his passion to cause his players/teams to enjoy & pursue the development process as much as the great results. He is always available for a conversation/interaction that will leave you and your child inspired to come back to the field for the next soccer highlight. As a father of a Division 1 female athlete he understands the commitment, drive, and support that it takes to maximize a child’s potential. Every Rise FC player can be assured that Mike is constantly watching for the next opportunity to inspire and impact your child’s development. Please reach out to Mike for more information about joining Rise FC at [email protected].
Macey Kurtz
Greg Henschel
Choosing the Right Soccer Club
Choosing the right soccer club and team is a significant decision for young athletes and their families, particularly at the end of spring when tryouts signal the beginning of the new soccer season. This period is fraught with stress and uncertainty as players grapple with the choice of continuing with their current team or venturing into new territories. This decision is not made lightly, given the potential for altered schedules, the impact on siblings already involved in the club, and the value of friendships formed. Yet, the allure of new experiences, challenges, and the possibility of growth and development prompts many to consider change.
At Charlotte Rise FC, we understand the complexity of this decision. We believe in the power of personal experience and the insight it provides into making informed choices. That’s why we invite players and their families to attend our practices free of charge. This open-door policy allows you to witness firsthand what we offer, enabling a transparent and direct understanding of our club’s culture and values.
Unlike larger clubs that may offer grand promises but operate on a transactional basis, Charlotte Rise FC is committed to a transformative approach. We focus on the player’s personal and athletic development, ensuring that our practices and strategies are aligned with their best interests. Our philosophy is centered around not just being a part of a team, but being part of a community that values growth, development, and giving back. The choice of a soccer club should extend beyond the convenience of location or the allure of competing in prestigious leagues. It’s about finding a club that aligns with your values, aspirations, and developmental needs.
Why Rise FC?
At Charlotte Rise FC, we play locally in the Champions League of Carolina, which hosts over 280 teams of various levels. This decision is based on our belief that excessive travel for league games does not serve the best interest of youth players. Instead, we focus on selecting tournaments that offer meaningful development opportunities, with potential travel to cities like Atlanta, Washington D.C., and Orlando, tailored to the team’s desires and requirements.
Our commitment extends to the culture we cultivate, characterized by professional coaching staff dedicated to nurturing players as individuals first and athletes second. This promise of personal attention in a supportive and enjoyable environment is central to our mission. We strive to understand each player’s unique sports load and stresses, encouraging a balanced approach to athletics that welcomes multisport participants.
Moreover, Charlotte Rise FC is dedicated to making a positive impact beyond the soccer field. Our annual soccer festival, coupled with educational events on fitness, strength, and nutrition, reflects our commitment to the holistic well-being of our players and their families. We believe in giving back to the community and fostering a love for the sport that extends beyond just playing.
Director’s Message
“We envision creating an involved community of young soccer enthusiasts and supportive families, bound together by a shared love for this beautiful game. Join us in this exciting journey, cheer from the sidelines, and witness firsthand the transformative power of soccer in your child’s life. We look forward to welcoming you and your young champions into our soccer family.”
Dr. Scott Farley
Our Mission
At Charlotte Rise FC, our mission is to offer the local youth community opportunities for personal growth and development through soccer. We are dedicated to instilling values of discipline, teamwork, and good sportsmanship. We uphold high standards both on and off the soccer fields in Charlotte, NC.
Our club provides a safe and nurturing environment where our professional soccer coaches can guide youth players to reach their fullest potential. We warmly welcome players aged U5-U19, spanning all skill levels. At our Youth Soccer Club, players build meaningful and trusting bonds, experience the richness of diversity and inclusion, maintain physical fitness, and cultivate a lifelong passion for soccer.
Our ultimate goal as a premier Charlotte Youth Soccer club is to motivate, inspire, and empower our players throughout their time with our teams. We firmly believe that every player has an ability to shine!
Our Success Stories
Accuvision Eye Care Fall Classic Tournament
We are thrilled to announce that our U11 Rise FC girls secured the championship on November 19, 2023, marking a remarkable achievement for our team. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Charlotte Independence team for graciously hosting us at the prestigious Accuvision Eye Care Fall Classic Tournament. The hospitality and sportsmanship displayed by the organizers and fellow teams made our experience truly exceptional.
The Accuvision Eye Care Fall Classic Tournament provided an excellent platform for our girls to showcase their skills and passion for the sport. The memories created during this tournament will undoubtedly be cherished by the players, coaches, and families alike.
Winthrop University Event
On Monday, October 9, our Rise FC U11 girls’ team had a remarkable experience at Winthrop University. They had the privilege of joining the Winthrop University women’s soccer team for pre-game festivities. During halftime, our Rise FC players showed their soccer skills. Post-game, they had the delightful opportunity to interact with and take photos alongside the university’s women’s soccer players. This day undoubtedly left an incredible mark on our young athletes. We’d like to express our profound gratitude to Winthrop University Women’s Soccer for their gracious hospitality. This was truly a highlight of our fall season!
U11 Girls Tournament
From August 26-27, our Rise FC U11 girls embarked on an exciting journey to Marietta, GA, for the NASA Tophat tournament. They faced off against strong teams in three intense matches. Besides the games, the team had a great time bonding. They stayed together at a hotel, had fun in the pool, enjoyed dinners with lots of laughter, and made unforgettable memories in Atlanta. They can’t wait for more adventures next season!
Family Soccer Fair
Charlotte Rise FC hosted Family Soccer Fair on July 22, 2023; it was a celebration of soccer, family, and friendship. Families and soccer players of various skill levels came together, forging connections and enjoying the game they love. Coaches shared their expertise, and participants engaged in friendly skill games and participated in lucky draws for MLS tickets. The joy of the first 100 registrations receiving a free soccer ball was a highlight, symbolizing the spirit of giving and unity. A heartfelt thank you to all who joined us in making this day not only enjoyable but meaningful. We look forward to many more such gatherings!
