SSD Lorenza Aims to Redefine Club Soccer Culture in Lawrence and Beyond

Lawrence, KS — June 2025

A new chapter in Kansas soccer is about to be written, and it starts in Lawrence. SSD Lorenza, the latest club to join the Challenger League under the Kansas City Association Football Federation (KCAFF), isn’t just entering the scene—it’s arriving with a mission. Founded and owned by longtime soccer mind Preston Copeland, the club is setting out to build something deeper than just wins and losses. SSD Lorenza promises to be a purpose-driven project rooted in craft, culture, and community.

“We wanted to build a club that treats football as a craft, not a commodity,” said Copeland. “Lawrence deserved a club with vision and roots, and that’s what Lorenza stands for.”

From its inception, SSD Lorenza has set a high bar—not only fielding a men’s side in the Challenger League but launching a women’s team in the newly formed Women’s Elite Soccer League (WESL) as well. According to Copeland, there was never a debate. (Women's First Team)

“Women’s soccer deserves equal investment, attention, and ambition,” he said. “The women’s game isn’t an afterthought; it’s part of the core.”

A Club with Intent

SSD Lorenza isn’t trying to be like everyone else. Copeland envisions a club identity that leads with intention—on and off the pitch. The goal is to be recognized for a style of play that values intelligence and resilience and for fostering a club culture that resonates throughout the city.

“We’re not here to blend in,” Copeland emphasized. “We’re here to set a new standard.”

This standard begins with infrastructure, including a strong commitment to youth development. Copeland, who brings a wealth of experience in youth soccer, believes that the foundation of any great club lies in how it develops players from the ground up.

“Development doesn’t happen by accident,” he said. “Our academy won’t just produce players—it will shape thinkers, leaders, and people of character.”

SSD Lorenza plans to adopt a European-style academy system, where youth development is central to the club’s identity and long-term vision. This includes a full pathway for girls, coaching pipelines for women, and integrated community programming.

Building for the Future

Lorenza’s approach aligns closely with KCAFF’s vision for sustainable, community-based soccer growth. The club fully embraces the league’s commitment to promotion, relegation, and merit-based progression—a model Copeland says keeps clubs honest and accountable.

“Promotion and relegation challenge clubs to improve, think strategically, and stay connected to their communities,” he said. “It’s the model this country needs.”

Beyond the technical side, SSD Lorenza is just as committed to fostering a vibrant local fan culture. The club plans to engage Lawrence through open events, supporter meetups, youth clinics, and visible presence throughout the city.

“We’re not just asking for support—we’re inviting people to build this with us,” Copeland said. “Lorenza isn’t a product. It’s a community project.”

What Comes Next

The club is actively recruiting players, staff, and supporters ahead of its debut seasons in the Challenger League and WESL. The message from Copeland is clear: this is more than just another soccer team. This is a movement.

“We’re here to build something original, driven by purpose,” he said. “For players committed to growth, for fans seeking something meaningful, and for a city ready to rally behind a new standard—Lorenza is for you.”

Get Involved

Those interested in joining the SSD Lorenza journey—whether as players, coaches, supporters, or volunteers—are encouraged to visit www.ssdlorenza.com or email info@ssdlorenza.com. The club is also active on Facebook and eager to connect with the Lawrence community.

SSD Lorenza is here. And for Lawrence and the region, the future of soccer just got a lot more interesting.