Cochol Cup will be an annual charity match in memory of a longtime United Soccer League Executive
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — The Tampa Bay Rowdies and Sarasota Paradise announced Tuesday that their preseason match will be the inaugural Cochol Cup.
The annual charity match will be honoring the late United Soccer League executive John Cochol, who passed away last August.
The preseason event will feature a yearly match between the two clubs, alternating host sites. The inaugural Cochol Cup is set for Saturday, February 21, at 7 p.m. at Al Lang Stadium.
Proceeds from the match will support the Come Get You Some Joy Foundation, founded by the Cochol family after John’s passing last year. The nonprofit is dedicated to celebrating his legacy by spreading joy, hope, and assistance to individuals and communities facing hardship.
Through the Cochol Cup, both clubs aim to carry forward Cochol’s enduring spirit of service and positivity.
“We are honored to host the inaugural Cochol Cup in memory of our dear friend, John Cochol,” said Rowdies President Ryan Helfrick. “John left a lasting impact on everyone he met, and it is our hope that this annual match will carry his legacy forward for years to come. His deep passion for people and unwavering positivity, even in the face of life’s challenges, are qualities that continue to inspire us all.”
As the preseason training began for the Rowdies, the team added 17 new players to its roster.
The overhaul announced last month was an intentional move following Tampa Bay’s missed playoff appearance in 2025.
With so many fresh faces, the Rowdies are on the pitch earlier than any other USL Championship club for preseason training.