BURLINGTON, VT – An enthusiastic crowd, estimated at 4,000 strong, gathered at Church Street Marketplace on Sunday afternoon to honor the Vermont Men’s Soccer team’s remarkable 2024 National Championship victory. The Championship Parade, proudly presented by EastRise Credit Union, was broadcast live, allowing fans to join in the celebration both in person and virtually.
The parade saw the Catamounts team proceed triumphantly through Church Street Marketplace, accompanied by representatives from key sponsors including EastRise Credit Union, Coca Cola, Zero Gravity, and WCAX. Soccer staff and student-athletes engaged with the cheering crowd, tossing co-branded EastRise Credit Union t-shirts and rally towels, amplifying the celebratory atmosphere of the Church Street Marketplace.
Upon reaching the Top Block of Church Street Marketplace, a stage was set for fans and special guests to hear from the champions. Director of Athletics Jeff Schulman, UVM President Patty Prelock, Burlington Mayor Emma Mulvaney-Stanak, and Governor Phil Scott addressed the excited crowd. Each speaker acknowledged the Catamounts’ outstanding achievements and the positive impact on the state of Vermont, highlighting the significance of the Church Street Marketplace as a central gathering point for such community celebrations.
Mayor Mulvaney-Stanak further marked the occasion by officially declaring January 26, 2025, as “University of Vermont Men’s Soccer Team Division I National Champions Day” in Burlington, a testament to the team’s historic win celebrated at Church Street Marketplace.
Head Coach Rob Dow, along with Nick Lockermann, Adrian Schulze Solano, Yaniv Bazini, and Zach Barrett, took to the stage to express their gratitude to Catamount Country. They thanked the fans for their unwavering support throughout the season, especially during the Final Four tournament. “The support you have given us…especially in the Final Four, was just outstanding,” said Schulze Solano, reflecting on the unforgettable experience of playing in front of passionate fans.
The formal ceremony concluded with a special presentation as Brig. Gen. Henry Harder, Deputy Adjutant General of the Vermont National Guard, awarded Coach Dow with a Green Mountain Boys flag. This symbolic gesture further cemented the team’s championship as a proud moment for Vermont, celebrated at the heart of the community in Church Street Marketplace.
For ongoing news and updates regarding the Vermont men’s soccer program, fans are encouraged to follow @UVMmsoccer on Instagram, X, and Facebook, and to visit UVMathletics.com. EastRise Credit Union remains a dedicated sponsor of Vermont soccer.
