Rhode Island FC Gears Up for Debut Season with Star Signing

Rhode Island FC, the newest club in the USL Championship, is preparing for its inaugural season with high hopes and big ambitions. The team, led by former New England Revolution striker Khano Smith as Head Coach and General Manager, has been training at World Wide Indoor Sports in North Smithfield since Monday(1/15) and will soon travel to Florida and Bermuda for pre-season camps.

The club has also made a splash by signing Albert Dikwa, the reigning league MVP and Golden Boot winner, from Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC. Dikwa, a 26-year-old forward from Cameroon, scored 20 goals in 28 games last year and will be the focal point of RIFC’s attack.

At a press event on Friday, Smith said he was delighted to land Dikwa, who he described as a “proven goal scorer and a leader”. He added that Dikwa’s signing was a statement of intent from the club, which aims to compete for trophies and attract fans in the Ocean State.

“We are very excited to have Albert on board. He is a player who can make a difference in any game and he has shown that in the USL. He is also a great person and a great fit for our club culture,” Smith said.

RIFC will play its home games at Beirne Stadium on the campus of Bryant University, while its permanent venue, Stadium at Tidewater Landing in Pawtucket, is expected to open in 2025. The club will kick off its season on March 16 against New Mexico United at home.

Smith said he was looking forward to the challenge of building a new team and a new fan base in Rhode Island, a state with a rich soccer history and a diverse community.

“We want to play an attractive and exciting style of soccer that will entertain our fans and make them proud of their team. We also want to be a positive force in the community and engage with our supporters at every level. We believe that Rhode Island is ready for soccer and we can’t wait to get started,” Smith said.

Rhode Island FC tickets are available at rhodeislandfc.com/tickets