By: Matthew Pitarresi, Athletics Communications Associate
PLATTSBURGH, N.Y. – After a summer filled with undefeated results, championship celebrations, and national headlines, one familiar face from the SUNY Plattsburgh sidelines is bringing home a new title. Chris Taylor, the Cardinals' head men's soccer coach, helped guide Vermont Green FC to its first-ever USL League Two National Championship, capping off a historic season as the team's newly appointed head coach. A member of the club's inaugural coaching staff in 2022, Taylor played a critical role in shaping the team's identity from the beginning—making this title run all the more meaningful.
A Historic Season
Under Taylor's leadership, Vermont Green posted an undefeated 11‑0‑3 regular‑season record, clinched their first Northeast Division title, and captured the Eastern Conference Championship. The unbeaten streak extended through the playoffs, highlighted by dramatic comebacks and a thrilling penalty shootout win over Dothan United (4‑2) to secure their national final spot.
In the national championship match, Taylor's Vermont Green FC squad rose to the occasion once again, delivering a performance that capped their perfect season in unforgettable fashion. With the score level deep into stoppage time, Maximilian Kissel netted the winning goal to lift the Green to a 2‑1 victory over Western Conference champion Ballard FC—securing the club's first USL League Two national title under Taylor's leadership.
Coach Taylor's Leadership
Taylor's steady coaching and calm presence on the sidelines were key to Vermont Green FC's historic run. He built a strong belief in his players that they could rise to any challenge.
"That's the best team we saw all year … but we knew the longer the game went on, we'd be the stronger team," Taylor said following the national championship win.
Beyond tactics and preparation, Taylor placed a strong emphasis on building a bond between the team and its supporters. The electric atmosphere at Virtue Field—with frequent sellout crowds and passionate, vocal fans—became a game-changing advantage.
"When we seize momentum in the game … as the crowd gets louder and it's bouncing … we can't speak highly enough of the benefits of being at home with this whole community behind us," he added.
That connection with the community, Taylor said, fueled the team's energy in crucial moments and helped propel them to the title.
Chris Taylor's success with Vermont Green FC reflects the dedication and talent he brings to SUNY Plattsburgh's men's soccer program. As he continues to build winning teams on both fronts, the future looks bright for Plattsburgh soccer and its community.
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