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Des Moines Menace
The Des Moines Menace (The Menace) has been a cornerstone of Iowa’s soccer community since 1994. Based in Des Moines, Iowa, the club competes in USL League Two (the fourth tier of the U.S. soccer system) and is known for providing high-level, family-friendly entertainment each summer.
Over the past 30 years, The Menace has built a strong tradition of success. The team has qualified for the playoffs 17 times and reached the national semifinals five times. The club has claimed two league championships, first in 2005 and again in 2021, celebrated in front of a record-setting crowd of more than 7,300 supporters. In addition, over 175 former Menace players have signed professional contracts, with over 30 advancing to Major League Soccer (MLS). Among them is Tesho Akindele, who went on to a successful career representing the Canadian national team.
The Menace has also made its mark in the U.S. Open Cup with notable victories over higher-division opponents. Off the field, the organization remains deeply engaged in the community through the Menace Soccer Foundation. This foundation promotes youth participation via initiatives such as Junior Menace, seasonal camps, and clinics, and three annual tournaments positively impacting thousands of youth athletes and their families across the region.
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2024 in Review
2024 was a year of change for the Menace, marked by growth, renewal, and stronger community connections. With new leadership and a focus on aligning day-to-day operations, the club worked to strengthen its foundation while continuing to deliver a competitive season. The addition of a Business Director and Sporting Director helped open a new chapter, supported by a refreshed brand that highlights community storytelling.
Sustainability also became a bigger part of the Menace’s work. The club began tracking travel-related emissions and encouraged fans to bring reusable water bottles, helping to reduce single-use plastics. New partnerships with West Des Moines Water Works and Atlantic Bottling are improving recycling efforts and expanding water access at matches.
Equity and inclusion remained central throughout the year. Pride Night was a season highlight, featuring custom kits, a performance by the Des Moines Gay Men’s Chorus, and a donation of more than $2,400 to the Iowa LGBTQ Chamber of Commerce. The team also joined Juneteenth celebrations and volunteered with local organizations honoring Black history and culture. Head Coach Troy McKerrell’s participation in the USL Forward Coaching Exchange with Forward Madison FC further reflected the club’s commitment to representation and growth.
Community engagement remained central to The Menace’s mission. Players volunteered with Can Play to lead inclusive youth clinics, and the club hosted a Mental Health Awareness Match benefiting NAMI Iowa. The team also participated in World Refugee Day at the Cup of All Nations, and celebrated Veterans and First Responders during the annual Stars & Stripes Night.
The season concluded with an appreciation event for staff and interns, a chance to celebrate the people who make the Menace what it is and to carry forward a spirit of shared purpose.
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Emissions and Impact Measures
Total emissions
155 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (MT CO2e)
Where 2024 data was incomplete or unavailable, prior years’ estimations were used.
Encouraged fans to bring reusables to reduce plastic waste
First year of tracking travel related emissions
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Looking Ahead
In 2025, The Menace will continue building connections in the community through player and team involvement. This includes volunteering with local organizations such as the Food Bank and hosting theme nights that highlight important causes. United Against Racism Night will focus on equity and inclusion in partnership with BLK & Bold Specialty Beverages and local nonprofits. Goals for Good will support Easterseals Iowa, while the Mental Health Awareness Game and Pride Night will raise awareness and funds for groups including Iowa Safe Schools. Young athletes will also have opportunities to connect with players through Youth Sports Night and youth camps.
The club is also taking steps to reduce its environmental impact. New portable water stations, created in partnership with West Des Moines Water Works, will be installed at matches, along with expanded recycling at Valley Stadium and a reusable bottle program with Atlantic Bottling.
Looking ahead, the Menace welcomes Charlie Latshaw III as head coach. His leadership will guide the team into a season focused on growth, community engagement, and sustainability.