menuOmaha Kings FC to Host MLIS League Finals at Baxter Arena
[Omaha, NE] Omaha Kings FC is thrilled to announce that they will be hosting the highly anticipated Major League Indoor Soccer (MLIS) League Finals at the esteemed Baxter Arena, located at 2425 S 67th St, Omaha, NE 68182. The event will take place on April 12 and 14, 2024, featuring the league's top teams battling it out for the Championship title.
The MLIS League Finals will commence with two thrilling semi-final matches on Friday, April 12th, followed by the Championship game on Sunday, April 14th. The semi-final games will kick off at 5:00pm CT and 7:30pm CT respectively, while the Championship game is scheduled for 2:00pm CT. One ticket grants access to both semi-final games on Friday.
In an exciting development, the Omaha Kings will take the field for the 7:30pm game on Friday, April 12th, against a formidable opponent yet to be determined. This presents a prime opportunity for fans to witness their hometown heroes in action as they vie for glory on their home turf.
Tickets for the semi-final games on Friday will be priced at $30, while tickets for the MLIS Championship game on Sunday will be available for $35. Ticket sales will commence on Friday, March 1st, at 10:00am CT. Fans can purchase tickets directly from the Baxter Arena box office via phone at 402-554-MAVS or in person, as well as online through Ticketmaster.com. To avoid additional Ticketmaster fees, supporters are encouraged to secure their tickets in person at the Baxter Arena Box Office window during operating hours.
About the Omaha Kings FC
The Omaha Kings FC is locally owned and was founded in 2019 by Argentinian native Emmanuel Viel, his father Carlos Viel, and Emmanuel's wife, Omaha native, Natalie (Troutman) Viel. In addition, Bobby Jaffery, native of Kabul, Afghanistan, came on board as a part owner of the organization in 2021. Emmanuel, who is also the Director of Coaching at Papillion Soccer Club, has been the head coach of the Kings since 2020, with Carlos Viel serving as Assistant Coach, and William Dollen serving as the club’s Goalkeeper coach.
The ownership and staff are honored to host the MLIS League Finals at the renowned Baxter Arena, which holds a special place in the hearts of the local community, as well as an alma mater for Natalie Viel, William Dollen and Kings player Stevie Siy. Siy might be a familiar name as he was the 2 time Captain of the University of Nebraska Omaha's NCAA Division I soccer team not too long ago.
The Kings organization boasts strong ties to the University of Nebraska Omaha (UNO), with several more of their players being current students of the university, some on Masters programs. Their journey to the MLIS League Finals is a testament to their unwavering dedication and relentless pursuit of excellence.
The Club’s History
Reflecting on their remarkable journey, the Omaha Kings FC have demonstrated remarkable growth and resilience, particularly in their previous season. Prior to that, they claimed the first ever National Championship Title in the M3 for the 2020-2021 season, the Midwest Conference Champion Title in the MASL2 during the 2021-22 season, and the Central Division Title last year with the MLIS during the 2022-23 season. Last year, the Kings displayed an outstanding performance, culminating in a record-breaking regular season with 10 wins and only 1 loss. Despite falling short in the championship game against Rapid City FC, the Kings showcased their prowess on the field, earning accolades and recognition throughout the league.
Among the standout achievements of the season, Omaha Kings player Manuel Lira was honored as the league's Most Valuable Player (MVP), while Head Coach Emmanuel Viel was named the MLIS Coach of the Year. Lira's stellar performance, leading the league in points and goals, underscored the Kings' offensive prowess, while Viel's strategic leadership guided the team to a league-best record and a formidable defensive standing. Lira also boasts local ties to the community. A native of Guadalajara, Mexico, he attended Omaha South High School and played soccer for Bellevue University, where he was a two-time First Team All-MCAC.
As the Omaha Kings FC prepare to defend their home turf and vie for the coveted MLIS championship title, they invite fans to join them in cheering on their beloved team at Baxter Arena. Don't miss out on the opportunity to witness history in the making as the Kings continue to leave an indelible mark on the world of indoor soccer.
Stay tuned for more information regarding the MLIS League Finals weekend, including hotel and lodging accommodations. For the latest updates and announcements, follow the Omaha Kings on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.