MASL team launching at Allentown’s PPL Center
Lehigh Valley Phantoms owners Rob and Jim Brooks and the Major Arena Soccer League announced a Premier Level indoor soccer franchise at Allentown’s PPL Center; opening night is Dec. 5 and season-ticket deposits begin April 9.
The owners of the Lehigh Valley Phantoms hockey team are expanding from pucks into soccer balls.
The Major Arena Soccer League and Phantoms owners Rob and Jim Brooks announced Thursday that a new professional indoor soccer team will be taking the field in the Lehigh Valley at the PPL Center in downtown Allentown.
The PPL Center is currently home to the American Hockey League’s Lehigh Valley Phantoms.
“As kids growing up playing soccer, Jim and I followed Professional Indoor Soccer and attended many games. We’ve always admired the skill, intensity, and passion of the game and its players, and we’re excited to bring that same high level of talent and energy to the Lehigh Valley,” said co-owner Rob Brooks.
The new team will enter the major league at the Premier Level, the highest level the MASL has to offer.
“From a fan perspective, indoor soccer is like no other soccer – it’s the same game, just condensed and intensified, which speeds up the play – creating more shots, saves, and big goals! When Pele helped create the rules back in the 1980’s, the goal was to create soccer in a format that mimics ice hockey’s fast pace of game and create a similar exciting fan experience,” said co-owner Jim Brooks.
The announcement is being hailed by Senator Nick Miller, D-Allentown, who said it will bring economic opportunity to the region.
“Soccer is a global sport that has united communities for generations, and now Downtown Allentown and the Lehigh Valley will finally have a team to call their own with the arrival of our first MASL professional franchise,” said Miller. “As we approach the 2026 World Cup and America250, this milestone positions our region to seize new economic opportunities, from increased local Downtown Allentown activity to job creation in the years ahead. I’m proud to share this historic moment and look forward to seeing our community fill the PPL Center to cheer on our new hometown team.”
According to a press release from the league, the MASL offers the highest level of Professional Indoor Soccer in the world, featuring elite players from more than 50 countries.
The league continues to grow its footprint across North America – including teams in San Diego, Baltimore, St. Louis, and more.
The upcoming season will feature 24 regular season games, with 12 taking place at home in the Lehigh Valley.
“Lehigh Valley has long established itself as one of the premier sports markets in the country—driven by passionate fans, a strong community identity, and a tradition of supporting high-level professional teams,” said MASL Commissioner Keith Tozer.
Opening night will take place on Dec. 5.
Deposits for season tickets are available starting April 9. Season ticket holders will receive exclusive benefits, early access to seats, and priority for upcoming announcements surrounding the team’s name, branding, and inaugural season.