A new USL/MLS partnership is official, as Tulsa Roughnecks FC and the Chicago Fire have announced an affiliation.
The affiliation, which is effective for the 2017 season, marks Roughnecks FC’s first partnership with an MLS franchise.
As part of the agreement, the Fire will loan players to Tulsa for the upcoming USL season. In addition, the two sides will look to work together on scrimmages and training opportunities while also partnering on ideas for best practices, both on the field and off.
TRFC head coach David Vaudreuil played two seasons with the Fire during his professional career and worked to bring the two teams together.
“We are very pleased to have signed this comprehensive agreement with the Chicago Fire,” said Vaudreuil. “The agreement is based on the personal relationships that we are building between the technical and executive staffs of both clubs as we strive to create the perfect environment for the highest level of professional soccer players.”
The partnership will give the Roughnecks the opportunity to solidify and strengthen their roster through loaned players from the Fire. The total number of players coming to Tulsa from Chicago is yet to be determined, with the number possibly varying throughout the season.
“We are pleased to be collaborating with the Tulsa Roughnecks and their coach, David Vaudreuil,” stated Chicago Fire general manager Nelson Rodríguez. “In addition to loaning players, we will also seek to find scrimmage opportunities and share best practices.”