Mint Hill FC Wraps Up Competitive 2024 Fall UPSL Season, Looks Ahead to Exciting 2025 Plans
The Future is Bright for the North Carolina Club
Mint Hill, NC – Mint Hill FC capped off an eventful 2024 fall UPSL season with a strong playoff showing, finishing with an 8-6 record and an impressive 47 goals scored across all competitions. The club’s journey featured memorable victories, standout individual performances, and a run to the conference semifinals.
A Season of Ups and Downs
Competing in the UPSL Mid-Atlantic Premier Division, Mint Hill FC started the season in dominant fashion with a perfect 5-0 record, showcasing their attacking prowess. However, a challenging mid-season stretch saw the club slip in form before regaining momentum in time for the playoffs. Mint Hill FC secured a 6th place finish in the regular season and earned a spot in the conference quarterfinals.
The playoffs brought thrilling moments, as MHFC came back from a goal down twice to defeat 3rd-seeded SC Heat 3-2 in a hard-fought quarterfinal match. In the semifinal, they took eventual champions North Carolina FC Academy to overtime before falling in a narrow 2-1 defeat, marking the club’s second appearance in the conference semifinals.
Key Performers
Jean Claude Banzouzi led the charge offensively, finishing as the club’s top scorer with 12 goals and 2 assists. Midfielder Brayden Keenan was the team’s most productive playmaker, tallying 6 goals and a team-high 10 assists. Ian Larson also played a crucial role in the attack, recording 6 goals and 7 assists.
Mint Hill FC also made a run in the US Open Cup Qualifiers, defeating SC Heat 1-0 in the first round before bowing out to Dalton United in penalty kicks after a scoreless draw.
Mint Hill FC 2 Makes Strides
The club’s second team, Mint Hill FC 2, competed in the UPSL Mid-Atlantic Division 1 with a solid 6-4 record. Their season ended in the conference playoffs after a penalty shootout loss. Forward Ryan Howe shined, securing the conference Golden Boot with 11 goals and 1 assist.
Looking Ahead to 2025
Mint Hill FC is making strategic moves in preparation for 2025, starting with the promotion of Assistant Coach Profe Reyes to head coach for both teams. The club has opted out of the 2025 Spring UPSL season to focus on a series of high-level friendly matches against semipro, professional, and collegiate teams in the Southeast. These matches, running from March to June, will provide valuable exposure for young talent and raise the level of competition for the squad.
With a commitment to developing players and continuing to engage with the Mint Hill community, Mint Hill FC remains focused on growing both on and off the field. Fans can stay updated by visiting minthillfc.com or following the club on Facebook, Instagram, and X.
For those interested in getting involved or exploring partnership opportunities, inquiries can be directed to minthillfc@gmail.com.