Paradise forward Kai Tamashiro handles the ball. Provided photo.

In the ever competitive world of organized soccer, every match counts. For although the Sarasota Paradise (2-0-1) are only three matches into their regular season, they are technically a quarter of the way through their 12 game slate in the United Soccer League 2 (USL2). The clock is ticking on the team’s defense of the South Florida division title.

Last season, in which the Paradise went 8-1-3, winning the division title and securing the first postseason berth in franchise history, the team scored just three goals in its first three matches. In 2025, the team has scored four goals in its first three matches. Despite the lack of offense, the Paradise remains confident in its ability to continue with its early season success. “We’re building momentum,” says defender Felipe Rojas. “We haven’t played our best soccer yet, but we are getting results. That’s a testament to the quality and resilience of the team. Similarly to last year, as the season goes on we’re just going to get stronger.”

Some of that chemistry will come with time. Much of the Paradise’s roster is comprised of collegiate soccer players, meaning that the squad only began organized practice towards the beginning of May. With veterans such as forward Seth Mahlmeister and newcomers like midfielder George Waites, the team is still in the process of figuring out how to best work together.

“At the start of the season, people can be a little bit nervous. We’re trying to figure out who our best players are,” says Rojas. “Players are trying to do more than they should or perhaps aren’t confident enough to do the things that they know they can do. As our players build confidence, we’ll get better and better as a team.”

On Wednesday, June 4, the Paradise face its biggest test of the season against Fort Lauderdale United FC (5-0). The top-ranked team in the division, Fort Lauderdale has been dominant on both sides of the ball, scoring 10 goals while allowing zero. It’s a test that Rojas believes the Paradise are ready for. “They’re definitely a formidable opponent,” says Rojas. “Last year, we faced a lot of tough teams and still got good results. We’re going into it prepared, confident and ready for war.”

The Paradise's next home game will be against  Miami AC on June 7 at 7:30pm, 5895 Post Blvd, Lakewood Ranch.

Paradise forward Kai Tamashiro handles the ball. Provided photo.

To learn more click here