As each USL season begins, the anticipation for what the league’s set of newcomers will bring to the table is always a fascinating topic for discussion.

After all, since the 2014 season there have been 12 teams that have reached the postseason on their first try, and one in Sacramento Republic FC that took home the ultimate silverware at USL Cup at the end of the season,

It’s that history that the USL’s five newcomers for the 2018 season will be aiming to emulate, and with the moves that have been made already it seems certain the new additions will make waves next spring.

Nashville SC’s arrival, announced in 2016, has been embraced strongly already locally, with the club currently having surpassed 3,000 season-ticket members. With former MLS Cup-winning Head Coach Gary Smith leading the way, and the club’s first signings including veteran goalkeeper Matt Pickens, the omens are good for the club’s first professional season in the Music City.