Shark Coast FC draws in USL2 debut in front of record crowd

NEW SMYRNA BEACH — The Caribbean sounds of a steel drum swept across New Smyrna Beach Sports Complex as an estimated 750 fans piled in to watch Shark Coast FC make its franchise and USL League Two debut on May 16. Spectators were treated to a 1-1 draw as the New Smyrna Beach-based club tied Sporting Jax to begin its record books. Forward Dom Topolsky scored for Shark Coast on a 20-yard deflected shot in the final minutes for the team’s historic first goal and to salvage a point in the USL League Two standings.

Founder and co-owner Terry Lippens, as well as the rest of the staff and players on Shark Coast FC, would’ve liked three points in their inaugural match, but the first official matchday was a logistical victory for Volusia County’s newest soccer program. “We actually all talked to the guys, and we kind of said, ‘Win or lose, we’re just happy we’re here. ’ We made it to the show.

We’re at the party,” Lippens said. “Obviously, you want to win as an owner, as a founder. I had to take a step back, and I had to be grateful.

There’s a lot of people that came out here to support us, and it was a great turnout. ” Amenities included food vendors, such as a Kona Ice truck and a taco stand that frequently had a line at the register. There was also a kids zone, which included miniature soccer goals, cornhole and other activities for local children to enjoy.