CI Cyclones Kick Off November Tryouts With a Call to Brooklyn’s Next Soccer Stars
The CI Cyclones Soccer Club is putting out the call for NYC’s next generation of soccer talent. Throughout November 2025, the Cyclones will hold tryouts for their U16–U19 travel teams, giving ambitious players a shot to earn their spot in one of the most competitive and fast-growing youth programs in New York.
“This is an opportunity for athletes looking to take their game to the next level,” said club president Vlad Shteynberg. “Our goal is to provide a professional and challenging environment that helps players reach their full potential. We’re looking forward to discovering new talent and welcoming dedicated players to the Cyclones family.”
Founded back in 1995 by Felix Abramovich, a Ukrainian immigrant and former pro who repped Team USA at the Maccabiah Games, the Coney Island Cyclones have been a South Brooklyn staple for three decades. Felix brought his street-smart style and pro pedigree—after playing for the Albany Eagles, PA Stoners, and Columbus Capitals—to create a club built on skill, grit, and community.
From humble beginnings in Sheepshead Bay, the Cyclones built a rep for turning raw talent into refined players who ball with intelligence and flair. Today, they compete in the elite divisions of both the Cosmopolitan Junior Soccer League (CJSL) and EDP Soccer, where they go toe-to-toe with some of the region’s top clubs.
Over the years, the Cyclones have built a full development pipeline—starting with Baby Steps (U5–U7) and running through U8–U15—teaching kids the fundamentals, the hustle, and the discipline it takes to play at a high level. Many who start in these programs work their way up to the club’s travel teams, carrying that signature Cyclones mentality all the way.
Co-presidents Vlad Shteynberg and Jimmy Rutitskiy, both Ukrainian-born players and longtime Cyclones coaches, took the reins in 2021. Together they’ve modernized the club’s structure while keeping its culture intact—equal parts hard work, heart, and Brooklyn swagger. Founding legend Abramovich remains close as an advisor, keeping the club’s roots strong.
“Our community is everything,” said Shteynberg. “We’re proud to serve players and families from all backgrounds. Soccer is the language that unites us.”
The Cyclones aren’t just developing players—they’re building character, family, and a love for the game that runs deep through New York’s concrete and coastal fields alike.
