Real Colorado and Colorado Ignite Soccer Club Are Merging!

We are thrilled to officially announce the merger of Real Colorado and Ignite Soccer Club—marking the beginning of a powerful new chapter for our soccer community.

This merger brings together two clubs with deep passion, proven leadership, and a shared commitment to player development, culture, and excellence. With the combined strength of both organizations, we’re excited to elevate our programming, create clearer player pathways, and provide even stronger support for players and families across all levels—from Rec to Elite.

Beginning Fall 2025, we are proud to announce two major additions to our programing in the North:
⚽ ECNL-Regional League for our Boys Program
⚽ DPL (Development Player League) for our Girls Program

These additions reflect our dedication to offering the best possible opportunities to our players at every stage of their journey.

With expanded coaching resources, unified leadership under General Manager Kelly Thomson, and a renewed focus on consistency and excellence—especially in the North—we’re building something truly special.

Thank you for being part of this journey. Together, we are Real Colorado—stronger than ever.

Dear Real Colorado Families, Players, and Coaches,
I’m reaching out with news that marks an exciting turning point for our club community. After thoughtful conversations and collaboration over the past months, we are officially announcing a merger between Real Colorado and Ignite Soccer Club.
This decision wasn’t made lightly, but it’s one we believe will elevate everything we stand for—on and off the field. While Real Colorado has long held itself to a high standard of professionalism and player development, we also know there’s always room to grow. We recognize that, particularly in the North, we have not always met the level of consistency and excellence our families and players deserve.
That’s why this merger is not just about combining clubs—it’s about building a better version of Real Colorado in the North. I’m incredibly excited to welcome Kelly Thomson as our new General Manager. Kelly has been a proven culture leader at Colorado Ignite and the Colorado Soccer Association Board of Directors, and brings the kind of vision, professionalism, and people-first approach that aligns perfectly with the future we’re working to build. Her leadership is a massive win for our entire community.
As part of this transition, we’ll also be saying goodbye to two valued members of our team, Aaron Smith and Brian Cvilikas. This was not an easy decision, but it is a necessary part of aligning our structure and goals moving forward. I want to sincerely thank Aaron and Brian for the dedication they’ve shown to our players, coaches, and families during their time with Real Colorado. Their contributions have helped shape this program, and they’ll always be part of our story.
What this merger means is more resources, clearer pathways, expanded programming, and a stronger support system for every player—from the first kick in Rec to the top levels of Elite. Many of the coaches you know and love—Skye, Xavi, Tiernay, Soby, and Bri—will remain an integral part of our future and will be joined by Russ, Kyle, Alastair 'Ali', and Hailey. Their commitment, along with Kelly’s leadership, will help us raise the bar and deliver on our shared mission: to grow the game and inspire the next generation.
You’ll see more details in the coming weeks, including new uniforms, coaching assignments, and opportunities for families to connect and ask questions. We’re working hard to ensure this transition is thoughtful, transparent, and focused on what matters most—our players. For the short term, your POCs will remain the same with the exception of Kelly, KellyT@realcolorado.net, taking over Aaron's responsibilities and Alastair 'Ali' Woods, AlastairW@realcolorado.net, will be taking over Brian's responsibilities.
Thank you for being part of this journey. As CEO, I am aware of where we’ve been, where we are and I’m very excited about where we’re going—together.
Sincerely,
Jared Spires - CEO
A New Era Begins: Ignite and Real Colorado Are Merging!
Dear Ignite and Real Families, Coaches, and Players,
We are beyond excited to share some game-changing news that will shape the future of both Ignite and Real Colorado. After much careful thought and consideration, Ignite Soccer Club and Real Colorado have made the decision to merge into one united club!
This is an incredible opportunity to take everything we’ve loved about both clubs and elevate it to new heights. By combining our strengths, resources, and passion for the game, we are poised to create a stronger, more comprehensive environment for our players, coaches, and families.
Why This Merger?
For years, Ignite has been driven by a mission to build a community centered around the sport we love, with a focus on player development, team spirit, and creating lifelong memories. At Real Colorado, their reputation for excellence in player development, top-tier facilities, and broad program offerings has already set a high standard. Together, we will form a dynamic, future-focused club that delivers on our shared vision of providing every player—at every level—with a clear pathway to success.
This merger brings with it exciting new opportunities for everyone:
- More Resources: As Real Colorado, we will work to access and create state-of-the-art fields, dedicated athletic trainers, and expanded coaching education. This means better training environments, more tools for success, and a stronger support system for our teams.
- Expanded Programming: We’re thrilled to offer more opportunities than ever before, including our Elite programming alongside Recreational, TOPS, and Competitive teams. This ensures there’s a place for players of all levels to thrive and grow.
- Top-tier Coaching Support: Our incredible coaching staff will remain with us, including Russ, Kyle, Skye, Xavi, Ali, Hailey, Tiernay, Soby, and Bri. Their commitment to player development and the community will continue to lead the way as we grow. And yes—Kelly Thomson will be leading the charge, ensuring that our culture and values continue to drive us forward!
- A Stronger Community: Whether you’re a player, coach, or family member, this merger strengthens our commitment to a thriving, inclusive soccer community. Together, we will provide a richer experience for everyone, with greater access to resources, development opportunities, and a unified vision.
What’s Next?
In the coming weeks, we will continue to provide updates as we work through the details of this exciting transition. Some of the changes will include:
- Uniforms Packages: Both clubs are in a new uniform cycle this year, so timing is perfect to ensure that we’re all ready to represent our club with pride.
- Coaching and Player Pathways: You will see an even clearer pathway for players from Rec to Elite, as well as new coaching assignments and contracts that will help us continue to develop and grow.
- Continued Family-Focused Experience: We remain committed to ensuring that every member of our club feels valued, supported, and excited about what’s to come.
We know change can bring questions, and we’re here to answer them. We’ll be holding meetings and Q&A sessions over the next few weeks to help you navigate this exciting new chapter.
While Ignite’s name and branding will be changing, the experience you’ve loved at Ignite and Real will only get better. We are more energized than ever to provide an environment where players can excel, coaches can thrive, and families can feel proud to be a part of something bigger.
This is just the beginning, and we’re incredibly excited to move forward together into this new era of Ignite and Real Colorado!
Stay tuned for more updates and thank you for being part of this exciting journey. Let’s do this! ⚡⚽
Kelly Thomson
Russ, Kyle, Skye, Xavi, Ali, Hailey, Tiernay, Soby, Bri and the entire Coaching Staff

Description text goes here