Welcome to the Kings Hammer New Albany December Newsletter! This edition features, Kings Hammer FC Columbus Announced as Newest Member of USL League Two, Winter II Juniors Registration Open, Meet the Coaches: Brett Robinson, New Merch and more! If you have a player, coach, or team to be highlighted in future newsletters, please send photos and stories to dfry@kingshammer.com. Each newsletter will be posted on our website as well as our social pages.

Happy Holidays & New Year!

As we wrap up an incredible year, I want to take a moment to thank our entire Kings Hammer New Albany family for your support and dedication. I’m truly grateful for everything we’ve accomplished together. Here’s to more successes and exciting moments in the year ahead. Wishing you and your loved ones a safe, joyful holiday season and a Happy New Year!

-Johnny Ulry

Kings Hammer FC Columbus Announced as Newest Member of USL League Two

Columbus, OH & Tampa, FL – The United Soccer League announced today that Kings Hammer FC Columbus will join USL League Two in 2025.

The club was formed in 2007, operating a team in Cincinnati before growing the organization’s operations nationwide. This latest merger sees them adding another Ohio team to League Two’s ranks.

Their mission is to grow local interest in soccer and develop local players both on and off the pitch. They seek to provide growth opportunities for coaches and executive leaders in each team as well.

Having the capacity to provide every level of soccer to our athletes is critical in providing the right pathway for our player development,” Kings Hammer USL Program Director Jon Pickup said. “With the addition of USL League Two, we are excited for the opportunities now available to our players in the Greater Columbus market.”

Kings Hammer Columbus will compete in the Central Conference in 2025.

“We are thrilled to join USL 2 and bring pre-professional soccer to Greater Columbus,” Kings Hammer Columbus General Manager Johnny Ulry said. “This is an incredible opportunity for our players to train and compete at the highest level while showcasing the immense soccer talent in our community. We can’t wait to embark on this exciting journey with our fans and the city of Columbus.”

Click here to read the full press release.

Winter II Juniors Registration Open!

Congratulations to the 2024 OHSAA Division II Boys Soccer State Champions! In a thrilling final that Our Kings Hammer New Albany Juniors Program is open and accepting registrations! This player-centered program emphasizes building strong technical fundamentals, age-appropriate social, emotional, and cognitive development, and having fun! Overseen by Adam Gatton and our Kings Hammer New Albany staff, players will enjoy engaging training sessions and game atmosphere that inspire growth.

Click here to secure your spot today!

Planning for Spring 2025? It’s never too early to register. Visit the link for details!

Meet the Coaches: Brett Robinson

Welcome back to all our high school-aged players! Before returning for the remainder of the club season, wAt Kings Hammer New Albany, we’re proud to shine a spotlight on the incredible coaches who help shape our players’ experiences. Each month, we will highlight one of our dedicated coaches, giving you a chance to learn more about the people who inspire and guide our players both on and off the field.

This month, we’re featuring Brett Robinson, KHA2 B15 Staff Coach:

• How long have you been coaching?

I’ve been coaching with Kings Hammer New Albany and Johnstown High School for two years. Prior to that, I played collegiate soccer at Ashland University. I attended Marysville High School in Michigan, northeast of Detroit.

• What inspired you to become a soccer coach?

Soccer has been such a big part of my life, and I wanted to give back to the game that gave me so much. Seeing players grow in their skills and confidence over time is incredibly rewarding.

• What is your favorite coaching memory so far?

It’s hardto choose just one. A top favorite was when Johnstown beat Bishop Hartley in last year’s tournament. The pure joy on the players faces—seeing their teammates celebrating—was unforgettable. Moments like that remind me why I coach.

• What do you enjoy most about being part of Kings Hammer New Albany?

The KHNA coaches and support from the director staff are second to none. It’s a place where I can learn, grow, and enjoy the game. I love being part of an environment that values development but still has fun.

• Do you have a favorite soccer player or coach you look up to? Why?

Iker Casillas, arguably the best goalkeeper in the world. The Spanish goalkeeper is only 6’1, bit undersized at the position, but still won nearly every trophy. His passion for the game and ability to connect with his players is inspiring.

• Tell us a fun fact about yourself! (Any hobbies, favorite food, or hidden talents?)

I recently learned how to make macarons, which is a very little and difficult cookie to make.

• Do you have any pets? Tell us about them!

No, I do not have any pets—unless count my brother, just kidding.

• If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?

I’d choose to fly. Imagine skipping traffic and spending less time in the car. It’d be a game-changer!

• If you could play soccer anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?

Easy question,San Siro in Milan, Italy. It’s such a legendary stadium with an electric atmosphere—playing there would be a dream come true.

• What’s one piece of advice you’d give to young players looking to improve their game?

Never stop practicing the basics. Mastering the simple things like passing, dribbling, and first touch make a huge difference. And most importantly, enjoy the game—it’s supposed to be fun!

December Education: Looking Back on the Year

The holiday season is upon us and the new year is approaching.  Most of our Kings Hammer teams have concluded their seasons, providing the ideal time to reflect on the journey through 2024 for all of us. This year has provided opportunities for growth, learning, and countless memorable moments. Here are some areas I hope that all of our families, coaches, players, and staff can reflect on and appreciate from this past year.

1. Memorable Moments: State Cup Champions, President’s Cup winners, tournament successes, All-American performers.  Kings Hammer teams and players have had many memorable winning moments this year.  Naturally, the club, teams, and players, have also had the learning experiences provided in tough losses as well. Hopefully every player and family can look back on games or practices that provided valuable lessons and opportunities for growth and where our teams showcased their skills and their sportsmanship.
2. Growth and Development: While every Kings Hammer player will be moving on their on path to development, one of the most rewarding aspects of youth sports is witnessing the growth and development of each player.  Whether it is mastering new skills, improving their teamwork, growing stronger or faster, or even making new friends, each player has shown remarkable progress. It is inspiring to see the dedication and hard work of players on and off the field.
3. Team Spirit, Respect, and Unity: Respect and Unity, two of Kings Hammers Core Values, have been a key emphasis throughout the year.  Teams and individuals have truly embodied the spirit of unity and camaraderie. Whether it’s cheering each other on during matches or supporting one another through challenges, the sense of community within our program has been strong. These bonds extend beyond the field, fostering friendships and a supportive environment for all.

Click here to read the full article.

Brand New Merch Available Now

Celebrate the New Year with some awesome new merch! We’ve added new fan gear to our Kings Hammer Shop that you’re sure to love! Now with extended sizing, we have Kings Hammer t-shirts, sweatshirts, hats, and more available at shop.KingsHammer.com. Check it out now!

We’re on the Techne App

Techne provides weekly technical training sessions through a user-friendly app, helping players sharpen their fundamental skills and improve ball mastery. Players can also compete on national leaderboards for an extra dose of fun and motivation!

If you haven’t received your Techne account invite via email, please reach out to our Director of Coaching, Ivan Landaverde, at ilandaverde@KingsHammer.com to set up your free account.

Explore the Kings Hammer New Albany Photo Gallery

Have you visited our photo gallery yet? We’re constantly adding new photos, so if you don’t spot your player this time, check back soon! All photos are free to download—perfect for sharing with family or posting on social media.

Don’t forget to tag us @KHNewAlbany and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, for new and exciting content!

Share Your Stories with Us!

We love celebrating our Kings Hammer New Albany community! Each month, we release a club-wide newsletter filled with updates, highlights, and key information. High school players can also explore our dedicated college recruiting newsletter, featuring valuable resources, educational content, and timeline-based insights.

Both newsletters are posted at the end of the month on our website and social media channels. Have a player, coach, or team you’d like to see featured? Send your stories and photos to Daniel Fry (dfry@kingshammer.com).

Thank You to our Sponsors!