Lou DePaoli, president of business operations for Rhode Island FC and Centreville Stadium

Could Rhode Island FC Reach the Top Tier of American Soccer? Lou DePaoli Likes Its Chances

by

In a recent interview featured in a weekly briefing by The Boston Globe, Lou DePaoli discussed his path to becoming Chief of Operations for Rhode Island FC and his outlook on the club’s future.

DePaoli brings over thirty years of sports business experience to the Ocean State, having previously helped launch the Worcester IceCats in the American Hockey League. Now leading the business side of Rhode Island FC at Centreville Bank Stadium in Pawtucket, he manages everything from revenue generation and marketing to stadium operations, security, and the guest experience.

The conversation highlights major structural changes on the horizon for American professional soccer. Expected to take effect around 2028, a new promotion and relegation system will allow teams to move between higher and lower divisions based entirely on athletic performance.

DePaoli views this shift as a transformative moment for the sport in the United States, bringing domestic leagues in line with global traditions where clubs fight to climb the table or avoid the drop.

Rhode Island FC’s commitment to competing at the highest level was one of the factors that attracted me to the club. While further details on the new promotion and relegation structure are not yet public, the club looks forward to the opportunity to join USL Premier and remains fully focused on achieving that goal.

Building local fandom remains a central priority for the front office. DePaoli, who once played against the Providence Bruins in Worcester, says teams must offer affordable, family-friendly matchday experiences. The club is also actively reaching out to Rhode Island’s diverse immigrant communities from soccer-centric nations, engaging supporters directly on their own terms.

Beyond the pitch, Centreville Bank Stadium is positioned as a community hub hosting multiple tenants, including the Boston Legacy and a United Football League team, alongside seasonal events like the Holiday Lights Festival. Plans for surrounding commercial and residential development near the stadium aim to transform downtown Pawtucket into a thriving entertainment and living district.

Rhode island the ocean state emblem sticker

Worth a look

Read next