Published on: Friday, November 30, 2012

By Christa Puccio and Daryl Buchanan

ROCKVILLE - Real Maryland FC announced Wednesday November 28 that they are suspending operations for the 2013 season.

The local professional soccer team known as the Monarchs has played as a member of the United Soccer League and sponsored several youth teams in the area. It used Richard Montgomery’s Roy Lester Stadium as its home since 2009.

Da vid Neuberth, a forward with the Monarchs, was named to the all-conference team in July.

According to officials who run the league, it is the top developmental men’s league in North American. Teams in the league compete in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup as well as various exhibitions.

According to an email sent by General Manager David Noyes after five years at the helm the owners have decided to turn their attentions elsewhere leaving the club without owners. Noyes said he has been working with the United Soccer League to find owners for the team.

“I have been working this past month with the [United Soccer League] in trying to find a new ownership group for the Real Maryland FC franchise.  The turn-around time for a new group to come in for the 2013 season has proven to be too short of a window for potential investors,” said Noyes.

The lack of ownership also raises concerns about the turf field located at Richard Montgomery High School that Real Maryland sponsored and help fund in 2009.

As of press time, Dana Tofig, spokesman for the Montgomery County Public Schools said MCPS had not received any notice from Real Maryland and was unsure how the soccer team’s exodus would affect Richard Montgomery or if there was a remaining fiduciary responsibility.