Welcome to the herd!
The sun was low over Randolph Union High School, casting long shadows across the U12-sized (smaller than full-size) soccer fields. You could hear the thump of a ball, the laughter of teammates, and the sizzle of burgers on the grill. It was Wednesday evening, and Moose FC, with nearly 100 players from the Randolph area, was alive for the final games of their inaugural season.
This summer, something new took root in Randolph. Moose FC is a coed adult soccer league. It grew from the same soil as Central Vermont FC (CVFC). Neighbors, friends, and strangers joined teams with goofy names like Red Sharks, Bruisers, Mangy Moose, Rogue United, OG Moose, and the champions—Pulisic for President. The league was created by Matt Murawski and Casey Grimes, founders of CVFC. They’ve always believed sport should be about community as much as competition.
And it was.
The games were played 8v8, with rules that made room for fun and fairness. No slide tackles. No offsides. Two women per team on the field at all times—a reflection of the team’s inclusive makeup, with one-third of players identifying as women. Pinnies instead of uniforms. Substitutions on the fly. Players ranged in age from 18 to 59, with an average age of 39, creating a lively mix of youthful energy and seasoned tenacity. It was soccer, yes, complete with USSA Certified referees, but it was also storytelling—every match a chapter in a summer tale that felt distinctly Vermont.
At the final tournament, the younger Moose—CVFC’s youth players and RUHS students—ran the grill with pride. They sold every last hot dog and burger, smoke curling into the evening air while players and families swapped stories and cheered from the sidelines—their efforts raised over $400 for their teams.
David Donahue, who tore his Achilles' heel after just his second week, still came to the final match. He stood quietly near the edge of the field, watching his team play. “It’s great to be able to play,” he said. “Even when you can’t, you still feel part of it.”
Ari and Matt from Make Do Farm had only just discovered Moose FC, but they were already hooked. “It’s fantastic to be able to play,” Ari said. “We’re so happy we found this.” They plan to return next year, bringing their own rhythm to the pitch.
And then there was the championship. Pulisic for President took the title, their final match a mix of grit and grace. They played with heart, and they celebrated with humility, just as Moose FC was meant to be.
There were no grandstands. No flashing lights. Just a field, a ball, and a community that showed up. Randolph was the perfect home for it. Not just because of the location, but because of the spirit.
For those unfamiliar with CVFC, Central Vermont FC is the largest youth soccer club outside of Chittenden County. It’s a grassroots powerhouse, nurturing young athletes across the region and building bridges between towns through sport. Moose FC is its grown-up cousin, but the values are the same: inclusion, joy, and connection...minus the beer.
And speaking of local flair—this year’s champions didn’t just walk away with bragging rights. They were awarded very creative, home-made mugs crafted by Third Branch Pottery Supply. Each one was a little piece of Randolph, fired and glazed with love.
If you want to learn more, or maybe join the herd next season, you can visit Moose FC's website. But for now, just picture it: the sun setting over the fields, the sound of cleats on grass, and the smell of barbecue drifting through the Vermont air. Go Moose!
