AMERICAN SOCCER CLUB NEW YORK SIGNS DEFENDER GABRIEL PACHECO

Former Hofstra center back will play for the Fighting Tomcats in U.S. Open Cup play

 
Long Island, NY (August 26th, 2026) – American Soccer Club New York of the National Premier Soccer League has signed defender Gabriel Pacheco and he will join the Fighting Tomcats for U.S. Open Cup play the weekend of September 12th and 13th.
“I’m very happy to join American Soccer Club NY,” said Pacheco. “I’m excited for the opportunity to represent the club and compete in the U.S. Open Cup. The club has had incredible success over the past two seasons and I hope to contribute to its continued success.”
Born in Curitiba, Brazil, the 6-2 195-pound Pacheco went to Colegio Saber High School and then began his collegiate career at Bethel University in Mishawaka, Indiana leading the Pilots to an NAIA National Championship. Pacheco earned NAIA Defensive Player of the Year honors and was an All-NAIA Tournament First Team selection.
“Gabriel is a seasoned and experienced player,” said Fighting Tomcats Head Coach John Fitzgerald. “He comes from a strong program at Hofstra University. He has the proper mindset and demeanor and we’re looking forward to having him join us.”
The 24 year old Pacheco transferred to Hofstra in 2023 and played in 21 games for the Pride that season scoring one goal and led a defensive unit that allowed 0.82 goals per game. In 2024, Pacheco played in all 21 games for Hofstra and recorded one goal and one assist. In his senior season, Pacheco played in 20 games last year and tallied one goal on five shots.
“Gabriel is a tremendous addition to American Soccer Club NY,” said Fighting Tomcats Managing Partner and General Manager Jim Kilmeade. “He’s a dominant center back and a high-character person who brings talent, professionalism, and a strong work ethic to our club. As a fellow Hofstra soccer alumnus, it’s especially rewarding for me to see another Pride player continue his career at the professional level. We’re excited to have him with us as we prepare for the U.S. Open Cup.”
American Soccer Club NY will be participating in the U.S. Open Cup for the second time with the opponent, date, and venue to be announced in the coming days. On August 31st, 2025, the Fighting Tomcats fell to New York Renegades FC 2-1 in a First Qualifying Round match played at the SUSA Orlin & Cohen Complex in Central Islip.
Preparations are underway for American Soccer Club New York’s 2027 season. Stay tuned for all of the latest news including the U.S. Open Cup, player signings, schedule, community events, and the addition of new corporate partners.

About American Soccer Club-New York

Founded in 2024, the American Soccer Club-New York (ASC NY), known as the “Fighting Tomcats,” are a Long Island-Metro NY team, competing in the National Premier Soccer League. The club’s identity pays tribute to the region’s aviation heritage through the iconic Grumman F-14 Tomcat. ASC NY is committed to developing local talent and signed 16-year-old Dylan Lopez in its inaugural 2025 season. The Club’s focus is on engaging the community and elevating Long Island as the epicenter for American soccer development. The organization played its home matches at Hofstra University’s Captains Field in 2025 and has already made its mark with early competitive success, US Open Cup qualification and charitable partnerships, and a strong focus on youth development and regional pride.

For more information about American soccer Club- New York, please Contact ASCNY.