by The National Premier Soccer League (NPSL), the first and only men’s league designated by USASA as a Tier 1 national league, is proud to announce that Catena FC has joined the league. The club has already joined the league as a member and will begin play in the 2027 season.
“The NPSL is thrilled to announce another expansion team in Maryland,” said NPSL Managing Director Cindy Spera. “Catena FC’s experienced ownership group’s approach is to strike a balance between business success and community investment to bring quality soccer entertainment into their hometown, and we welcome them to the league.”
The team is led by Bryan Watson, Charlie Jackson, and Chase Humphrey.
Watson serves as the President and CEO of Catena FC, overseeing the club’s strategic vision, football operations, and long-term development. He brings a European-minded approach shaped by long-standing relationships within the professional game, alongside experience in professional sports franchise management. Watson has led elite player development environments across the U.S. and internationally, with alumni progressing into MLS Next, professional academies, and senior pre-professional football.
“We chose the NPSL because it understands the game at its core and values the role clubs play within their communities,” Watson said. “The league’s commitment to investing in markets like ours is meaningful, and we see this as a partnership. One where the NPSL provides a national platform, and we bring a deeply rooted football culture, strong local relationships, and a long-term vision that benefits both the league and our region.”
Jackson, a Manchester City skills coach and founder of Matrix Soccer Academy, is widely regarded for his work in elite technical development and football intelligence. Having helped develop more than 20 professional players and 70 academy players across the U.K. and the U.S., his methodology is rooted in ball mastery, decision-making, and game realism.
“Nearly ten years ago, Bryan and I sat with ABC affiliate WMDT and spoke about a vision for what football on the Eastern Shore could become,” said Jackson. “We talked about football being a universal language, inspiring kids to fall in love with the game, and building something that could genuinely change the landscape here. Since then, we’ve watched players from this area reach the professional game, represent their countries internationally, win championships, and prove that this region can produce talent capable of competing at the highest levels. Catena FC represents the continuation of that vision, creating a true football culture and pathway for the Delmarva community.”
At Catena FC, Jackson will serve as International Football Advisor, providing strategic guidance informed by decades of experience within elite football environments across Europe. Drawing upon a career that has spanned professional academies, UEFA initiatives, and international player development, he will offer perspective on football culture, player progression, and the standards required to succeed at the highest levels of the game.
“Charlie has spent decades inside some of the world’s most respected football environments, and his perspective is invaluable as we build Catena FC,” Watson said. “He brings an understanding of the standards, culture, and expectations that exist at the highest levels of the game. That international perspective will help ensure our players, coaches, and club continue to grow with a global mindset while remaining firmly rooted in our local community.”
Humphrey, a former Salisbury University standout and longtime fixture within the Delmarva soccer community, who will serve as Technical Director for Catena FC. Known for his extensive understanding of the game, sharp eye for talent identification, and player-first developmental approach, Humphrey has earned respect throughout the region as both a coach and mentor.
His background spans the collegiate, high school, and private development levels, where he has worked closely with players in both team and individualized training environments. An All-CAC performer and respected figure within the local game, Humphrey brings a deep understanding of the modern player landscape to Catena FC’s long-term vision.
Together, the club’s leadership group reflects the broader philosophy behind Catena FC. It is a football club founded on the competitive, developmental, and operational principles established through Matrix Soccer Academy, a proven high-performance environment with deep roots in elite player development across the United States.
Fans and supporters can learn more by visiting www.catenafc.com or following the club on Facebook (@catenafc), Instagram (@catena_fc), and Twitter/X (@catena_fc).
More information about expansion opportunities in the NPSL can be found at npsl.com/expansion.
