AC Newport is a semi-professional football club based in Newport, Rhode Island, United States. Competing in the Northeast region of the National Premier Soccer League (NPSL), the club has carved out a unique identity by blending Italian football traditions with American grassroots soccer culture.

Club History and Founding

Founded in 2016 by a group of Italian-American soccer enthusiasts, AC Newport takes its name from the classic Italian Associazione Calcio designation. The club's crest features the iconic Newport Bridge and the colors azzurri (blue) and white, paying homage to Italy's national team and the city's maritime heritage. The team plays its home matches at Gaudet Field on the campus of Salve Regina University, a venue that regularly sees passionate crowds of over 800 fans.

League Competition

AC Newport competes in the NPSL, widely considered the top amateur league in the United States. The club is part of the North Atlantic Conference, facing regional rivals such as Hartford City FC, New York Shockers, and Boston City FC. The team has consistently finished in the middle of the table, with their best season coming in 2019 when they reached the conference semifinals. The playing style under head coach Marco DiBenedetto emphasizes defensive solidity and quick transitions, reflecting Northern Italian tactical influences.

Community and Culture

The club is deeply rooted in Newport's local community. AC Newport operates youth academies for both boys and girls, focusing on technical development and small-sided games. The club also hosts an annual "Italian Heritage Cup" against local Italian-American clubs, drawing significant interest from the region's Italian diaspora. Supporters' group "I Gialloblù" (The Yellow-Blues, despite the team's azzurri color, the name is a playful homage) creates a lively atmosphere with flags, drums, and chants in both English and Italian.

Notable Players

Over the years, AC Newport has attracted several former NCAA Division I players, as well as a few professionals from lower European leagues. Midfielder Alessandro Rossi, a dual Italian-American citizen, has been the team's captain since 2020 and is regarded as the club's all-time leading appearance maker. The team also fosters local talent from Rhode Island high schools and colleges, providing a pathway for young players to continue competitive soccer after college.