Celebrating the 100th Anniversary of Shawsheen FC's National Challenge Cup Victory

In 1925, the Shawsheen Football Club brought national recognition to Andover by winning the U.S. National Challenge Cup, defeating the Chicago Canadians and claiming the title of soccer champions of the United States. This remarkable achievement remains a proud moment in the town’s history, celebrating the legacy of community, sport, and the unique role of Shawsheen Village in Andover’s story.

Backed by the American Woolen Company and formed in the heart of Shawsheen Village, the Shawsheen Football Club was created to foster community and recreation among mill workers and residents. With support from company leadership and a team of skilled players, many of them Scottish immigrants, the club made an improbably and historic run at the national title. In just a few short years, the team vaulted from local industrial league play to the highest levels of American soccer. Their 1925 victory in the National Challenge Cup, the most prestigious soccer tournament in the country at the time, the team cemented their legacy in American sports history.

To honor the 100th anniversary of this historic victory, the Town of Andover, in partnership with the Andover Soccer Association and the Andover Center for History & Culture, invites the community to a special festival on Sunday, September 14th, from 2:00 to 5:00 PM* at Lower Shawsheen Field, 14 York Street. The event will include age-specific kids' soccer scrimmages, skill stations, games, and open play opportunities for all. Enjoy food trucks featuring Si Cara Pizza and Najwa’s Ice Cream, a bouncy house, a dunk tank with local soccer coaches, activities with Sydney’s Rainbows, and a beer garden hosted by Oak & Iron Brewery. The afternoon will also feature a brief dedication ceremony with remarks from local historians reflecting on the legacy of Shawsheen FC and the significance of the 1925 victory.

Children are encouraged to participate in soccer scrimmages during their scheduled time slots, which will be supervised by high school volunteers. No experience is required, but parents should remain on the sidelines while their child plays.

• 1:00 to 1:30 PM: Kindergarten and 1st Grade

• 1:30 to 2:00 PM: 2nd and 3rd Grades

• 2:00 to 2:30 PM: Preschool

• 2:30 to 3:00 PM: 4th and 5th Grades

• 3:00 to 3:30 PM: 6th, 7th and 8th Grades

• 3:30 to 4:00 PM: Open Play

In addition to the soccer activities, festivalgoers can enjoy games, a bouncy house, and hands-on crafts and programs with Sydney’s Rainbows. The Oak & Iron Beer Garden will be available for adults, and local food trucks will be serving throughout the afternoon. The event offers a unique opportunity to reflect on an inspiring chapter in Andover’s history while bringing the community together for a fun and memorable day.

Primary event parking will be at Andover Landing/Brickstone. Handicapped parking will be available in the small lot at the entrance to the field on Balmoral Street.

Commemorative T-shirts are available for purchase online, with proceeds supporting the festival.

Residents of all ages are encouraged to join us in celebrating 100 years since Shawsheen FC’s unforgettable championship season.

*Event originally scheduled for Sunday, September 7th, but has been rescheduled to September 14th due to inclement weather.