Soccer in America is a sport built on legacy, and St. Louis embodies that spirit as St. Louis City SC prepares for their first Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup final against Columbus Crew on Wednesday at 8 p.m. ET. The region boasts a rich history in the tournament, with the last local champions, Busch Seniors, winning in 1988 after first competing in 1920.

Jeff Robben, a former Busch Seniors goalkeeper, reflects on the area’s journey, stating that the success of St. Louis soccer had seemed unlikely until the arrival of MLS and USL teams. He recalls a recent defeat for another local team, underscoring the competitive gap.

In 2019, St. Louis City SC was established, and they began play in 2023 with significant local backing. The city’s soccer roots are deep, influenced by immigrant communities that fostered a European-style game. Joe Olwig, former head coach of Busch Seniors, emphasizes the accessibility of soccer, which allowed youth to engage in the sport.

The 1980s saw a resurgence in success with St. Louis Kutis SC and the Busch Seniors winning the Open Cup. Tim Loughman, a defender on the Seniors, recalls the confidence and talent that propelled them to face formidable opponents, including a memorable match against Chivas Guadalajara.

As St. Louis City SC seeks to add a trophy to their cabinet, they face challenges, including the absence of star striker Rafael Navarro due to being cup-tied. Despite changes in the squad, the team has shown remarkable growth, with Yoann Damet leading them to an impressive 21-game unbeaten streak.

Dave Lange, author of St. Louis Soccer: An Illustrated Timeline, praises the current team's performance as the best he has witnessed in years. The upcoming final is more than just a match; it's a chance for St. Louis to reclaim its storied soccer legacy, connecting past triumphs with future aspirations.