THISTLE F.C.
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Kearny Thistle F.C., is a non-profit high caliber traveling soccer program built on a group of dedicated non-
paid volunteer coaches, directors, parents, and its dedicated players. The Club has teams of boys and girls,
ranging from 7 to 19 years of age. Kearny Thistle F.C. is dedicated to representing and maintaining its soccer rich
tradition, and providing athletic, social, and professional opportunities for our youth.
Thistle F.C. (football club) was founded in the early 1970’s. It started with two boys teams: Div 3 U/14 (coached by
Lou Hyles), and Div. 2 U/16 (coached by Charlie McEwan). Before founding Thistle, those teams played under the
banner of the Scots American Club. At that time, they played in the German American League, traveling to New York
and parts of New Jersey. After competing for two years in the German American League, they decided to form a
new league in Northern Jersey, which is now called Northern Counties Soccer Association, one of the most
successful leagues in the state.
Some outstanding moments in Thistle history were back to back 1981, 1982 Div. 2 Boys State Cup Championships.
Another outstanding moment was the clubs first victory (Div. 1 Boys), coached by Jim Harkes Sr., over the
prestigious Celtic Boys Club of Glascow, Scotland. Another giant step for Thistle was in the inclusion of girls’
teams.
A few of the most famous players who came through the Thistle program are John Harkes, Tab Ramos, and Tony
Meola. Many stories could be told about their young soccer careers with Thistle. And let’s not forget Billy Galka,
Kearny High School Varsity Soccer coach, who just completed a very successful first year, and the many, many
former players who are now coaching college, high school, club and recreation teams.
Most important in any youth sports organization are the boys and girls who participate, the coaches who coach
them, and the parents who support them. Through soccer, we hope to continue to foster friendship, team spirit,
sportsmanship, and above all pride in our Kearny community, our State and our great Country. Thistles looks
forward to visiting other soccer communities throughout the United States, and continue to promote this
wonderful game we all love.
| Kearny Thistle F.C. "Our History" |
