Northland FC Brings Semi-Pro Soccer to Gladstone with Grit, Talent, and Community Spirit
By Brice McCuiston
Gladstone, Missouri – March 30, 2025
In only its second season at Gladstone’s Happy Rock Park, Northland FC is already making waves in the world of semi-professional soccer. Built on the principles of affordability, accessibility, and visibility, the club has quickly become a hub for local talent and a source of pride for the community.
The Northland FC is part of the Select League, a recreational adult men's (18 and up) soccer league based in the Kansas City metro area. It is also an entity under KCAFF (Kansas City Association Football Federation) and related international play including the KCAFF World Cup. The purpose of The Select League is to give local players and coaches an opportunity to experience being part of a club and organization that promotes solid competition, sportsmanship, and being part of the community.
“We’re about giving athletes a chance to compete at a high level without the financial burden,” said club manager Fernando Ramirez. “This is Kansas City talent. This is local. This is real.”
Northland FC currently operates a men’s team that competes in the Select League and is in the process of launching a women’s side to compete in the newly-formed Women’s Elite Soccer League. All players must be at least 16 years old, and the current roster includes a mix of high school athletes, collegiate players, and former professionals.
“We play a high-pressure style,” Ramirez explained. “Force mistakes, capitalize on them, and win games. That’s our identity.”
The club has its sights set high. “We’re going to win the league,” Ramirez said confidently. “This isn’t just about participation — it’s about raising the standard of competition and winning with a style that’s exciting to watch.”
A Player’s Journey: From Beginner to Breakout
Among the team’s most inspiring stories is Israel Barco, a young man who joined the team without any previous soccer experience.
“He didn’t even know how to kick a ball,” Ramirez recalled. “Now, he’s on the verge of being one of our key players this season. That’s the kind of growth we want to make possible here.”
A Neighborhood Club with a Family Feel
Northland FC plays its home matches at Happy Rock Park, which Ramirez describes as having “proper non-league football vibes” — a true community atmosphere where fans can get close to the action.
Admission to early-season matches is free, and the club is inviting residents to come out, support the team, and help build something meaningful in the Northland.
“We’re not just a soccer team. We’re building a culture,” Ramirez said. “We want people to feel like this is their club.”
Season Opener and Cup Aspirations
Northland FC will kick off its Select League season on April 5 with an away match in Lenexa, Kansas. The club’s first home match will be held on April 11 at Happy Rock Park, and it won’t be an ordinary league game — it’s also the opening round of the Northland Cup, with potential qualification for the Kansas State Cup on the line.
“We’re putting everyone on notice,” Ramirez said. “Watch out for Northland FC.”
Building for the Future
The club’s women’s team is still in development and actively recruiting. “We’re looking for players who want to grow with us,” Ramirez said. Development programs for younger athletes are also in the works, potentially launching as early as this fall.
Get Involved
Community members interested in supporting the club — whether by attending games, volunteering, or helping with operations, photography, or broadcasting — are encouraged to reach out.
Follow Northland FC online:
Website: www.TheNorthlandFC.com
Instagram: @TheNorthlandFC
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