Greenville, September 17, 2025
News Summary
Joe Erwin has announced his resignation as Chairman of the Greenville Triumph and Greenville Liberty soccer clubs, effective September 16. While he steps down from the chairman role, Erwin will remain an owner and board member of both clubs. He founded the Triumph in 2018 and the Liberty in 2022, significantly impacting the local soccer landscape. As both teams prepare for a new stadium opening in 2026, Erwin’s ongoing involvement will continue to shape the future of soccer in the Upstate.
Greenville, South Carolina – Joe Erwin has stepped down from his position as Chairman of the Greenville Triumph and Greenville Liberty soccer clubs, effective September 16, 2025. Although he has resigned from the chairman role, Erwin will continue to be an owner of both clubs and will remain on their board, ensuring his ongoing involvement in the team’s future.
Prior to this announcement, Erwin founded the Greenville Triumph in 2018, marking it as Greenville’s first professional soccer team. In 2022, Erwin also established the Greenville Liberty, which became the Upstate’s first pre-professional women’s soccer team. His leadership has fundamentally transformed the soccer landscape in Upstate South Carolina, enhancing both the professional and amateur levels of the sport.
Under Erwin’s stewardship, the Triumph has made notable advancements within the USL League One, with a strong record of success that includes three championship finals appearances and a victorious season in 2020. The Greenville Liberty plays in the USL W League, serving a vital role in bridging the gap between college women’s soccer and the professional realm. Since its inception, several players from the Liberty have successfully progressed to sign professional contracts, showcasing the program’s efficacy and growth potential.
Erwin expressed his pride in the community and familial nuances developed through the clubs. He feels the journey has exceeded expectations, creating shared experiences for players, fans, and staff, whom he refers to collectively as family.
The transition comes at a pivotal time as both clubs gear up for the opening of a new 10,000-seat soccer stadium at Bridgeway Station, with a targeted completion in 2026. As the clubs look forward to this significant development, Wallace Cheves, the co-owner and chairman of Grupo Ronaldinho, praised Erwin’s contributions, highlighting the vibrant soccer experience and community bond established through the clubs.
Further leadership transitions for both clubs will be announced in the coming days, which aims to create a seamless continuation of the clubs’ missions. The Triumph will start its 2026 season in March, while the Liberty’s season is set to kick off in May, signaling a new chapter for soccer in Greenville.
Key Developments
- Joe Erwin resigns as Chairman but remains an owner of the Greenville Triumph and Liberty.
- Founded the Triumph in 2018 and the Liberty in 2022, transforming local soccer.
- Triumph won the USL League One championship in 2020 and has been a three-time finalist.
- The Liberty assists in the transition to professional soccer for women.
- New stadium opening in 2026 promises to enhance the soccer experience.
Upcoming Seasons
- Greenville Triumph’s 2026 season starts in March.
- Greenville Liberty’s season kicks off in May.
Background Context
Before the establishment of the Triumph, Greenville lacked a professional soccer team, hindering the growth of the sport. The Triumph’s formation in 2018 not only addressed that void but also sparked interest and support for soccer in the region. Erwin’s vision has inspired a new generation of soccer fans and players alike, paving the way for a robust soccer community.
The Greenville Liberty was introduced as part of a burgeoning focus on women’s sports, providing a much-needed platform for female athletes. As the Liberty continues to cultivate talent, it underscores the commitment to advancing women’s soccer in the Upstate.
Conclusion
As Joe Erwin steps back from the chairman’s role, the continued ownership and board membership suggest his dedication to the longevity and prosperity of the Triumph and Liberty. As both clubs prepare for an exciting new stadium and upcoming seasons, they aim to build upon the solid foundation laid during his tenure.
FAQ
- Who is Joe Erwin?
- Joe Erwin is the founder and former Chairman of the Greenville Triumph and Greenville Liberty soccer clubs. He continues as an owner and board member.
- What are Greenville Triumph and Greenville Liberty?
- Greenville Triumph is a professional men’s soccer team founded in 2018, and Greenville Liberty is a pre-professional women’s soccer team established in 2022.
- What achievements has the Triumph made under Joe Erwin’s leadership?
- Under his guidance, the Triumph won the USL League One championship in 2020 and reached the finals three times.
- What is the significance of the new stadium?
- The new 10,000-seat stadium at Bridgeway Station is expected to improve the matchday experience for fans and players, enhancing the overall growth of soccer in the area.
- When do the Triumph and Liberty start their new seasons?
- The Triumph’s 2026 season kicks off in March, while the Liberty begins its season in May.
Key Features Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Joe Erwin’s Resignation | Stepped down as Chairman on September 16, 2025, remains an owner and board member. |
| Founded Clubs | Greenville Triumph (2018) and Greenville Liberty (2022). |
| Success of Triumph | Three-time USL League One finalist and 2020 championship winner. |
| Liberty’s Role | Bridges college and professional women’s soccer, with players signing professional contracts. |
| New Stadium | 10,000-seat venue at Bridgeway Station opening in 2026. |
| Upcoming Seasons | Triumph in March 2026, Liberty in May 2026. |
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Additional Resources
- Greenville Online: Greenville Triumph Pro Soccer News
- Greenville Business Magazine: Joe Erwin Steps Down
- Greenville Journal: Erwin Steps Down as Chairman
- WYFF4: Joe Erwin Resignation News
- Fox Carolina: Greenville Triumph Founder Resigns
- Wikipedia: Greenville, South Carolina
- Google Search: Greenville Triumph Soccer
- Google Scholar: Joe Erwin Greenville Triumph
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Greenville
- Google News: Greenville Triumph News
Author: STAFF HERE GREENVILLE
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