The Kingdom Returns: Omaha Kings Back in the MASL Pyramid
Omaha’s return to the most respected stage in indoor soccer
After three seasons away, Omaha Kings FC is officially returning to the Major Arena Soccer League pyramid. The club last competed in MASL2 during the 2021–22 season, where they captured the Midwest Conference title and advanced to the national semifinals—falling in a thrilling overtime battle to eventual champions, San Diego Sockers 2.
The MASL2 officially announced the Kings' return last Friday. You can read their full statement here.
In the years since, the Kings competed in the Major League Indoor Soccer (MLIS) system. Though the journey took the club down a different path, the organization remained grateful for the opportunity to compete, grow, and stay connected to its fans and community. Now, with a renewed vision and a return to their roots, the Kings rejoin MASL2 for the 2025–26 season—reuniting with the league where it all began and bringing the full Kingdom together once more, with the Kings and Queens competing side by side in MASL2 and MASLW.
Omaha Kings vs San Diego Sockers 2 | 2021-22 MASL2 Semi-Finals
“This is an incredible opportunity for our organization and players to showcase how far we’ve come,” said Emmanuel Viel, Omaha Kings FC Founder and Head Coach. “We’re excited to return to MASL2 and compete at a high level of arena soccer, while building rivalries that will bring energy and passion to every match. The city of Omaha means everything to us, and we can’t wait for the 2025–26 season to kick off and show the league what Omaha and the Kings are all about.”
Voices from the Kingdom: Core Players Reflect on the Return
Several of the Kings’ most respected veterans—players who were on the roster during the club’s original MASL2 run and remained through every chapter since—shared what this return means to them. These athletes have experienced multiple leagues firsthand, and their passion for the MASL platform speaks volumes. For them, the return to MASL2 is more than a move—it’s a homecoming to the most respected stage in professional indoor soccer.
Midfielder Bobby Jaffery, a founding member of the club and current co-owner, has helped lead the team both on and off the field. From clutch performances to steady leadership, Jaffery has been a heartbeat of the Kings for years.
“This means everything—to me, to our team, and to the city of Omaha,” said Jaffery. “We started with nothing but a dream, a few people who believed, and a love for the game. Now, to be stepping back into the league where this all began—and seeing how far we’ve come—is truly humbling. Omaha is in our DNA, and every time we step on that field, we carry the pride of this city with us. As a co-owner and a player, I’m honored to be part of this journey—and I know the best is yet to come.”
Forward Manuel Lira, who joined the Kings during the 2021–22 MASL2 season, has served as a team captain and standout performer year after year. In that 2021–22 campaign, Lira helped power the Kings to the league’s Championship Weekend, finishing the regular season with 16 goals and 15 assists—ranking fourth overall in points across MASL2. During the Kings’ time in MLIS, he continued his dominance, earning League MVP honors and leading in nearly every offensive category.
“The Kings have given me the opportunity to keep doing what I love—playing at a high level—alongside talent that’s mostly local, from all kinds of cultural backgrounds, but all homegrown to me,” said Lira. “I’m blessed to be part of something that represents Omaha and keeps the passion alive. I’m looking forward to another season full of exciting, high-level play—this time in proper arenas and facilities that reflect the level we’re at.”
One of the Kings’ most reliable and impactful players, forward Daniel Zuckweiler has been with the club since its first season in 2019. Known for his composure, consistency, and leadership, Zuckweiler has played a key role in many of the Kings’ most important victories and remains a fan favorite for both his on-field impact and sportsmanship.
“I’m excited to head back to the MASL pyramid,” said Zuckweiler. “Being with the Kings from the beginning and experiencing all the leagues we’ve played in, M2 has always felt the most like home. I can’t wait to renew our old rivalry with the Wichita Wings—it feels full circle, and I’m grateful to be part of it.”
Defender Morgan Penn, another longtime staple of the roster, is known for his fearless style and jaw-dropping flair—frequently bringing energy and excitement to the field. After suffering a major knee injury during the 2023–24 season, Penn stepped into an assistant coaching role for both the Kings and Queens while recovering. Now, after a year of hard work and rehab, he’s preparing to make his return to the pitch.
“We had some great times competing in MASL2 a few years ago,” said Penn. “We developed rivalries with some strong teams that pushed us to be better. It’ll be great to be back in a league where the level is high and every game matters.”
Midfielder Leonides Mejia, another core member of the Kings, has grown into one of the team’s most dangerous attacking threats. This past season, he earned the Golden Boot as the league’s top goal scorer—netting 28 goals and leading all players across MLIS. His speed, finishing, and intensity continue to raise the standard for the club.
“I enjoyed our time in MASL—competing against top teams and forming exciting rivalries that shaped who we are today,” said Mejia. “This move is a huge step forward in our vision as both a club and as players. We’re committed to growing the indoor game here in Omaha, and I can’t wait to start the season and take it to the next level.”
Goalkeeper Efren Flores Fierro, who joined the Kings in 2021 at just 19 years old, has developed into one of the most decorated young goalkeepers in indoor soccer. In his debut MASL2 season, he earned Third Team All-Star honors, ranking third in both goals-against average (7.81) and save percentage (.642). Since then, Flores has continued to shine—garnering league-wide recognition and earning multiple honors along the way—including being named Goalkeeper of the Year during the 2023–24 season after recording 145 saves and 8 wins.
“Playing for the Omaha Kings has truly been a blessing,” said Flores. “Over the years, I’ve built lifelong friendships and created bonds that go far beyond the game—not just with my teammates, but with the Omaha community as a whole. I’m incredibly excited to be back in MASL2, where the competition is on another level. That kind of challenge pushes us to grow, to train harder, and to become the best versions of ourselves. We want to bring glory to Baxter Arena and make our city proud every time we step on the field.”
Looking Ahead
As the Kings return to MASL2, the club also reunites with the Queens in the MASL Women’s division—bringing both teams back under one competitive structure, and giving Omaha fans a unified arena soccer experience.
“We’re thrilled to return to the MASL pyramid—this is where our journey began, and it’s where we truly belong,” said Natalie Viel, Co-Owner and CMO. “Bringing the Kings back into the same league structure as our Queens means our entire Kingdom is under one roof again, and that just feels right. The move not only restores our competitive credibility, but also gives our players the experience they deserve—playing in proper arenas, facing top-tier talent, and traveling within a much more sustainable footprint. We’re excited for what’s ahead—and grateful to compete in a world-class venue like Baxter Arena once again.”
With the return to MASL2 comes a more competitive structure, greater regional proximity, and a renewed commitment to both the player and fan experience. Additional updates—including season schedules, roster announcements, and ticket information—will be shared in the weeks ahead.
Tryouts for the 2025–26 Omaha Kings roster are anticipated for mid-August, with official details to be announced soon.
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Photos by Miller Media
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About Omaha Kings and Queens
The Omaha Kings and Omaha Queens are Nebraska’s premier professional arena soccer teams, with the Queens making history as the state’s first professional women’s soccer team. Founded in 2019 by Emmanuel Viel (Necochea, Argentina), his wife Natalie Viel (Omaha, NE), and his father, Carlos Viel, a former professional soccer player from Necochea, Argentina; the Kings have quickly climbed the ranks of arena soccer, earning titles and accolades across multiple leagues. Both teams represent Omaha’s passion for soccer, featuring talented players with deep local ties and a commitment to growing the sport.
For more information, visit omahakingsfc.com or omahaqueensfc.com.