American Soccer Club New York Joins Forces with The New York Cosmos in a game changing partnership.
Multi-year agreement will create professional pathway for talented Long Island players
ASC NY will host annual exhibition match against the Cosmos on Long Island
Clubs will work together on community events, fan engagement initiatives and more
LONG ISLAND, NY (Nov. 19, 2025) —The American Soccer Club New York (ASC NY), known as the Fighting Tomcats, have reached a formal agreement with the New York Cosmos, one of America’s most storied soccer clubs, to strengthen the regional player development system and create a direct professional pathway for Long Island talent.
The multi-year collaboration will focus on identifying and developing elite players within the ASC NY system, while offering opportunities for select athletes to train with the Cosmos’ USL League One squad and be evaluated by Cosmos coaches.
The agreement also establishes an annual Long Island exhibition match between ASC NY and the Cosmos.
“This partnership underscores our commitment to creating real, tangible opportunities for our Long Island-Metro New York players to reach the next level right here in the Tri-State area” ASC NY Managing Partner and General Manager Jim Kilmeade said.
“Working with Cosmos CEO Erik Stover and the sporting staff is a win-win and a natural step in the evolution of the Fighting Tomcats and the local soccer ecosystem.”
The initiative also will provide for collaborative scouting, shared technical development resources, and youth-to-pro integration through ASC NY’s expanding academy platform. Both clubs will explore joint community events, training experiences and fan engagement activations designed to grow the game across the region ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026 in North America.
“I’ve known Jim Kilmeade and some of his partners for many years,” Stover said. “We like the direction that ASC is going and it lines up perfectly with our goals. Plus, we have a lot of fans on the Island, and this partnership helps us stay connected with them.”
The first Fighting Tomcats vs. Cosmos match is expected to take place in spring or summer 2026, with details to be announced in coordination with local partners and the host venue.
About the New York Cosmos
The New York Cosmos was founded in 1971 with a mission to bring world-class soccer to the United States and inspire a new generation of fans. The club became a global icon through legends like Pelé, Franz Beckenbauer and Carlos Alberto, who helped ignite America’s passion for the game. Now, the Cosmos are returning to the field in Paterson, NJ, as a community-driven club rooted in sports, culture and entertainment.
Based at historic Hinchliffe Stadium, the Cosmos aim to create opportunity, celebrate heritage, and showcase the pride and passion of North Jersey through the world’s game.
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.