Youngstown Nighthawks planning to debut MASL 2 team for 2026-27 season

TAMPA, Florida – When Major Arena Soccer League 2 celebrates its10th anniversary in the 2026-27 season, the Youngstown Nighthawks will be at the party.

Itself a longstanding soccer club – the Nighthawks were founded over a decade ago – Youngstown currently fields teams in both MASL 3 and MASL Women under the Nighthawks label.

Team founder and President Josh Auden said the plan will be to keep both of those teams intact, while adding a new MASL 2 club next season. Youngstown would become the first organization to field teams in all three levels of the MASL pyramid of leagues below the Major Arena Soccer League.

“After building our club and community since 2014, this move is a major step forward for the Nighthawks and soccer in Youngstown – bringing an even higher level of competition and excitement to the area,” Auden noted. “"Our goal has always been to elevate the game of soccer in Youngstown -- not just for our players, but for the entire community. Moving up to MASL 2 is proof of how far we’ve come, and we’re excited to keep growing the beautiful game right here at home. We can’t wait to see even more fans, families, and future Nighthawks join us on this journey.”

Auden, who also serves as president of MASL 3 and MASL W, also noted the club's longevity has been the byproduct of everyone involved.

“The Hawks have been committed to developing talent, fostering inclusivity, and delivering quality soccer experiences,” Auden added. “We want to thank everyone – players, staff, families, and fans – who have supported us every step of the way.”

MASL 2 Commissioner Chris Economides welcomed the news.

“Youngstown's history with the Nighthawks, dovetailed with a long history of support of pro indoor soccer in northeast Ohio makes this a perfect time to debut a MASL 2 team,” Economides said. “Josh is an experienced owner at both the local and league level and understands the type of commitment it will take for a strong MASL 2 team when they make their debut next season.”

The ninth year of MASL 2 soccer kicks off December 6, with 17 games in the United States and Mexico playing a 12-game regular season schedule. The MASL 3 Nighthawks start their 2025-26 season at home January 3 against the Buffalo based Sahara Gunners. The MASL W Nighthawks will start their campaign in Youngstown on December 6 when they host Detroit City FC.