by The Rochester Lancers recently unveiled their ADMIRAL
Home, Away, and Alternate Kits, honoring the legacy of one of the oldest soccer team brands still in operation today, paying homage to local legend Salvatore “Soccer Sam” Fantauzzo, and blending tradition with modernity in a captivating fashion statement.
The Lancers, founded in 1967, have been a fixture in American soccer, competing in both the American Soccer League and the North American Soccer League, where they clinched the NASL title in 1970. The team’s rich history and Salvatore Fantauzzo’s unwavering dedication to the sport have made the Lancers a symbol of Rochester’s soccer culture. In 2011, Fantauzzo added another chapter to the Lancers’ story by purchasing the team’s name and logo as part of an effort to revive his childhood club, giving a new generation the chance to fall in love with the beautiful game.
“When I went to Lancers games as a kid, that’s what they wore. Admiral was the brand,” Fantauzzo said. “When I brought the team back, it was important that the team wore a brand that, to me, is the American soccer brand. I’m proud to be affiliated with Admiral and continue to write a new chapter alongside them,” he concluded.
The Rochester Lancers Home Jersey is inspired by Fantauzzo’s love for pink kits and his penchant for bold fashion choices. This vibrant primary color is a nod to both Fantauzzo’s personal brand and the current Lancers uniforms. Drawing from the pattern in one of his favorite “lucky” jackets, the home jersey incorporates a vibrant striped motif that fades in and out, creating a striking design reminiscent of the original Lancers’ first-ever jerseys. This unique blend of contemporary style and historical homage reflects the passion and vision of the club’s driving force and owner.
The Rochester Lancers Away Jersey was crafted by renowned soccer jersey designer The Concept Club and brought to life by ADMIRAL. This kit features the classic royal and gold colors that defined the original Lancers’ identity, while adding a contemporary interpretation to create a unique design. The repeating lance pattern serves as a visual tribute to the iconic mark featured on the original Lancers jerseys worn more than 50 years ago, reflecting the spirit of strength, skill, and determination that characterizes the club.
Finally, the Lancers Alternate Jersey features a sleek black base with a distinctive chequered design and pink accents, embodying the dynamic spirit of the team and Fantauzzo’s unique fashion flair. Whether worn by players on match day or by fans cheering from the stands, this jersey is meant to make a statement on and off the pitch, all while inspiring pride in the Lancers community.
“We’re delighted to have been able to work with the Lancers to bring this to life,” said ADMIRAL Owner Paul Hamburger. “We are the oldest soccer brand in the world, and they are the oldest soccer team brand still operating in America. It’s quite special that we were there during the very early years of the club, and now we’re here 50-plus years later. Just like back then, we’re ready to push the envelope and create something exceptional.”
The collection is now available HERE.
ABOUT THE ROCHESTER LANCERS
Established in 1967, the Rochester Lancers are one of the oldest soccer team brands in the United States. In 2011, Salvatore “Soccer Sam” Fantauzzo relaunched the team. The club now competes in the MASL2 indoor soccer league, carrying on the legacy of the original franchise.
ABOUT ADMIRAL
Founded in the UK in 1914, Admiral is the world’s original soccer brand. For over 100 years, Admiral has supplied innovative, rebellious, and pioneering sportswear. From generation to generation, icons, legendary teams, and heroes have written their own stories in Admiral product. It is this connection to our roots and our drive to write new stories which allows us to create product that will continue to be worn by innovators for another 100 years. To learn more about ADMIRAL, visit admiral-sports.com/shop/ or follow ADMIRAL on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, X, and Youtube.
