Kingsport, Tenn. — Johnson City Futbol Club (JCFC) and Tri-Cities United Soccer Club (TCU) have officially united to form Appalachian Highlands United (AHU), creating a new regional soccer organization designed to strengthen and expand youth soccer opportunities across Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia.
The formation of Appalachian Highlands United marks a major milestone for soccer in the region, bringing together two longstanding clubs under one shared vision focused on player development, accessibility, affordability, and regional pride. As part of the merger process, the Tennessee Attorney General formally reviewed the transaction, clearing the way for the clubs to officially combine operations under the new organization.
The newly formed Appalachian Highlands United immediately becomes the region's largest competitive youth soccer club, serving boys and girls from recreational levels through elite, college-preparatory, and professional pathways.
"This merger is about creating something stronger for the next generation of players and families in our region. By uniting our clubs, we can expand opportunities, deepen coaching resources, improve player development, and ensure soccer remains accessible and affordable for families throughout the Appalachian Highlands."
The club will continue offering scholarship opportunities and financial assistance programs to ensure all children have the opportunity to participate, regardless of financial circumstances. AHU leaders say one of the organization's top priorities is growing the game across the region and removing barriers that prevent children from participating in youth sports.
"Appalachian Highlands United allows us to think bigger about what youth soccer can become in this region. This club creates a pathway for every player — whether they are learning the game for the first time or pursuing opportunities to compete at the collegiate or professional level. Together, we are building one united club focused on developing both players and people."
The Appalachian Highlands United club name honors the proud heritage of the Scottish Highland settlers who first called the region home, reflecting the resilience, strength, and unity that continue to define the Appalachian Highlands today. The club's crest honors that Scottish Highland heritage through an interwoven design inspired by Celtic tradition, while also symbolizing the intersecting highways that connect communities across the region — representing the endless pathways and possibilities ahead for every player who wears the badge.
Foundational Partnership
As part of the launch announcement, AHU also named Ballad Health as the club's foundational sponsor. As the region's health system, Ballad Health's investment underscores its commitment to youth wellness, healthy communities, and regional development.
"Ballad Health believes deeply in the power of youth sports to build healthier children, stronger families, and more connected communities. Appalachian Highlands United reflects the very best of regionalism — communities coming together around a shared purpose to create greater opportunity for young people across Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia. When kids are active, engaged, and supported through sports, they develop habits that lead to healthier lives, stronger character, and lifelong resilience. Many Ballad Health team members and physicians are parents and families involved in the club, which makes this partnership especially meaningful for our organization and the region we proudly serve."
AHU will continue operating local programming and training opportunities in both Kingsport and Johnson City while creating expanded pathways for player development and competition throughout the region.
Open tryouts for Appalachian Highlands United are currently underway and will remain open through June 3.
Open Tryout Information — Boys and Girls
Eastman Park, Kingsport
High school players born Aug. 1, 2010 – July 31, 2008 (U16–U19)
- Thursday, May 28 · 5:30–7:30 p.m.
- Friday, May 29 · 1:00–3:00 p.m.
Winged Deer Park, Field Huff B, Johnson City
Middle and high school players born Aug. 1, 2010 – July 31, 2008 (U16–U19)
- Friday, May 29 · 5:30–7:30 p.m.
Indian Trail Middle School, Johnson City
Open to all ages born Aug. 1, 2018 – July 31, 2008 (U9–U19)
- Wednesday, June 3 · 5:30–7:30 p.m.
Additional details, registration information, club updates and summer training camps can be found at ahunited.com or on Facebook and Instagram.
About Appalachian Highlands United
Appalachian Highlands United is the largest competitive youth soccer organization in Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia, serving more than 900 youth players across the Appalachian Highlands region. AHU is committed to providing affordable, player-centered development opportunities from recreational to elite levels while fostering character, leadership, mentorship, and community pride. Learn more at ahunited.com.