The Empire Strykers have announced the launch of Empire Pulse, a professional women9s indoor soccer team set to begin competition in 2027. The new team will operate alongside the Empire Strykers men’s team, which competes in the Major Arena Soccer League (MASL).
Currently, there is no fully professional league for women9s indoor soccer available, but the organization and league officials are optimistic about establishing one in the future. The Inland Empire region, home to the team, has gained exposure to professional women9s indoor soccer through previous showcase events featuring Southern California talent, which helped gauge local interest and support.
On March 29, a doubleheader featuring both the Empire Strykers men’s and women’s sides drew a record crowd of 7,861 fans at Toyota Arena in Ontario, California. This marked a new club and MASL attendance record for the 2025-26 season, encouraging the organization to move forward with establishing a permanent women9s team.
Jeff Burum, Managing Partner of the Empire Strykers, emphasized the importance of creating professional opportunities for the abundant women9s soccer talent in Southern California. He stated the team aims to reflect the energy and diversity of the Inland Empire community while fostering opportunities for women as athletes, coaches, employees, entrepreneurs, partners, volunteers and community leaders.
The club is considering a player-ownership model to provide players with a meaningful stake in the team. Empire Pulse will deliver a close, fast-paced, and interactive indoor soccer experience at Toyota Arena, continuing to support growth in women9s professional sports in the U.S. and worldwide.
CSB Take
The launch of Empire Pulse is a significant development for women9s professional indoor soccer in the Inland Empire, an area previously without a major professional women9s sports franchise. By leveraging the existing Empire Strykers infrastructure and engaging the local community, the team sets a foundation to grow the sport and inspire future generations. Although a professional league for women is still in formation, Empire Pulse9s innovative approach, including the potential player-ownership model, demonstrates a strong commitment to sustainable growth and community involvement. This initiative may serve as a model for other MASL teams and regions to expand women9s professional indoor soccer opportunities.
Source: Original report
