Sporting Cascades FC, the new professional soccer franchise set to launch in Eugene, Oregon, announced Tuesday, Oct. 6, that it has signed defender Jonathan Robinson as its first player. The 25‑year‑old native of Gurnee, Ill., joins the club ahead of its inaugural USL League One season slated for March.
Robinson’s journey to Eugene
Robinson played college soccer at Marquette University and Western Michigan, where he finished second nationally with 13 assists in 2023. He was selected by Sporting Kansas City with the 80th overall pick in the 2024 MLS SuperDraft and made 14 appearances for Sporting Kansas City II in MLS NEXT Pro that year.
After a stint in New Zealand with Western Suburbs in 2025 and a championship‑winning season with Auckland FC’s OFC Pro League squad in early 2026, Robinson returned to the United States this summer. Seeking an opportunity closer to family, he found a match in Eugene, a city he says reminds him of the natural beauty he loved while living abroad.
Coaches praise his fit
Head coach Darren Sawatzky and assistant coach Connor Cappelletti have known Robinson since his college days. “He loves how our outside backs get forward,” Sawatzky said. “Jonathan’s athleticism, his ability to stretch teams and create goal‑scoring chances, and his silky left foot make him a perfect fit for our system.”
Robinson echoed the sentiment, calling the move a “no‑brainer” after conversations with the coaching staff and former teammates. He added, “I really like nature, and I love hiking. Seeing the pictures of Eugene felt like coming home.”
Building a roster
USL League One rules require clubs to carry a minimum of 15 players and allow up to 30. Sporting Cascades will continue to add talent over the coming months, with a full roster expected before the March launch. The club’s management emphasized a focus on quality players who can contribute on both ends of the field and bring personality to the game.
Robinson, a left‑back, is known for his defensive reliability and willingness to join the attack. “You can only control what you can control,” he said. “I have faith in the staff to get a team around me, and I’ll make sure I’m fit and ready to go.”
Community impact
The arrival of a professional soccer team is a milestone for the Eugene area, bringing new entertainment options, potential jobs, and a rallying point for local families. The club’s name, Sporting Cascades FC, reflects the region’s natural heritage and aims to foster a sense of pride among residents.
Local businesses anticipate increased foot traffic on match days, while schools and youth soccer programs look forward to partnerships that could inspire the next generation of athletes. The club’s leadership has pledged to engage with community groups, emphasizing family‑friendly events and affordable ticket pricing.
Looking ahead
With Robinson now on board, Sporting Cascades FC moves one step closer to fielding a competitive squad. Fans can expect further announcements about additional signings, coaching staff, and community initiatives as the club prepares for its debut season.
Original reporting: Homepage – Lookout Eugene-Springfield — read the source article.
