The U.S. Soccer Federation has announced the 2026 U.S. Open Cup Team of the First Round, and Vermont Green FC Head Coach Chris Taylor has been recognized as the top coach among the 64 eligible coaches, after orchestrating the iconic 1-0 cupset victory over Portland Hearts of Pine.
With a team comprised exclusively of college students, Taylor and his staff—Lee Williamson, Jed Sass, Rob Emmett, Hannah Tremel, and Alex Elias—outwitted the pro club from Maine. The squad had just three training sessions prior to the match, and many of the players hadn’t met one another prior to those sessions. Sporting Director Adam Pfeifer is credited with bringing the talented squad together.
A 40th minute David Ismail goal and a lockdown defensive performance—anchored by returning stars Brandon Marshall and Niklas Herceg—were key in the historic victory.
Here’s what the U.S. Soccer had to say about Taylor:
Coach – Chris Taylor, Vermont Green FC (USL League Two): Fresh off an unbeaten USL League Two title-winning campaign, Taylor led Les Verts to their second-ever victory against professional opposition. Even though Portland Hearts of Pine maintained 61% possession, Taylor’s side held advantages in expected goals (2.18 – 0.53), shots (14 – 8), shots on target (6 – 1), accurate long passes (34 – 19) and touches in opposition box (21 – 15) in a dominant showing.
Congratulations, Coach Taylor!