Overview:
American Soccer Club New York defender Will Noecker has become the first Fighting Tomcats player to sign with the New York Cosmos.
Will Noecker came on as a 74th-minute substitute for the Cosmos on Wednesday night. (Photo courtesy of the Fighting Tomcats)
American Soccer Club New York defender Will Noecker has become the first Fighting Tomcats player to sign with the New York Cosmos.
The Fairfax, Va. native made his Cosmos debut on Wednesday night during a 3-2 USL League One loss to the Greenville Triumph. Noecker entered the game as a substitute in the 74th minute.
“It’s an incredible honor to sign for such a historic club like the New York Cosmos,” said Noecker. “It’s definitely a big responsibility but I’m taking it one day at a time leaning on my past experiences and learning from the veterans on the team. I’m excited with the group we have I think it will be a great experience as a first year at the professional level.”
As per team policy, details of the signing are not disclosed.
In November, ASC New York and the Cosmos announced a partnership agreement designed to strengthen the regional player development system and create a direct professional pathway for Long Island talent. The multi-year agreement focuses on identifying and developing elite players within the ASC New York system while offering opportunities for Fighting Tomcats players to train with the Cosmos and be evaluated by their coaches.
“Will Noecker becoming our first player transfer in club history is a defining moment for American Soccer Club-New York and a testament to the strength of our partnership with the New York Cosmos,” ASC managing partner and general manager Jim Kilmeade said in a statement.
Noecker became the first player to take advantage of that pathway.
“American Soccer Club is an incredible organization from the top down,” he said. “I’ve known head coach John Fitzgerald for a long time and have gotten to know Jim Kilmeade and none of this would be possible without them. It means a great deal to have played for ASC New York.”
Noecker joined ASC New York last year for the club’s inaugural campaign following a stellar collegiate career with Binghamton University and North Carolina State, helping the Wolfpack reach the NCAA Division I Sweet 16 in 2024. He has also played for Dothan United Soccer in USL League Two.
“I’ve known Will for several years,” Fitzgerald said in a statement. “He has played for me in USL League Two as well as in the National Premier Soccer League with ASC New York. I have observed Will progress to a top defender and I’m confident he has what it takes to play in USL League One and beyond. Not only does he have the physical ability, but more important, he has the proper mentality. He was my captain on the USL League Two team where he was a natural in that role. Above all, he’s a terrific young man and a pleasure to work with. I’m pleased to support him and super happy for him that he’s reaching his goals.”
Noecker and the Cosmos return to the pitch on Saturday at 2 p.m., when they host Forth Wayne FC at Hinchliffe Stadium in Paterson, N.J.
The Fighting Tomcats will open their second NPSL season on May 2 against the New York Shockers at Mitchel Athletic Complex in Uniondale, N.Y. the club’s primary home venue.