Today we’d like to introduce you to Midhat Mujic, Muharem Dedic Dr. Rafael Sierra
Hi Midhat Mujic, Muharem Dedic, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
Rochester FC was founded in 2018 by Midhat Mujic and Muharem Dedic, both of whom immigrated to Minnesota from Bosnia due to the war in their home country. With extensive experience in both semi-professional and professional soccer, Midhat and Muharem launched the club to provide new opportunities for local youth. What began with one semi-professional team and one youth team has since grown into an organization. From 2019 to 2024, Rochester FC expanded to include 8 youth teams, 2 high-level academy teams, 2 semi-professional teams, and 2 teams competing at the highest levels of pre-professional soccer.
Dr. Rafael Sierra, who has been involved with Rochester FC since the first season in 2019, played for the club’s semi-professional team. In 2023, he took his commitment to the club a step further by joining the ownership group, contributing his expertise and passion for the team’s growth.
The club’s mission has always been to create pathways for youth players to grow, compete, and continue their development within the Rochester community. By providing this structured pathway, we’ve been able to support players from diverse backgrounds in reaching their full potential.
In Fall 2024, Rochester FC formed a strategic partnership with Minnesota Rush, combining the strengths and resources of both clubs to further expand opportunities for youth players. This collaboration will help us deliver even better programs and broaden the scope of our player development initiatives.
Rochester FC has brought some of the highest levels of pre-professional soccer to the city, cultivating a competitive environment that benefits both players and the community. Our pre-professional teams include Division I athletes from top universities across the country, including Missouri State, Creighton, Drake, Green Bay, University of Missouri, and Louisville. These players come to Rochester to compete, but also to gain work experience through internships, jobs, and volunteer opportunities with local organizations such as the school system and the Ronald McDonald House.
This partnership has also proven valuable for local businesses, as our pre-professional athletes contribute to the workforce during the summer months. Moving forward, Rochester FC remains focused on building opportunities for youth, fostering a strong soccer culture, and strengthening community ties through sport and service.
Looking ahead, Rochester FC is committed to creating a professional pathway for its players and aims to build a stadium in the city. This ambitious project will not only elevate the club’s competitive profile but also provide a long-term foundation for the sport in Rochester, offering even greater opportunities for players and the local community.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
One of the key challenges we face at Rochester FC is securing summer housing for players who join us at the pre-professional level. Many of these athletes, primarily college students, come to Rochester not only for the opportunity to play soccer, but also to develop their skills through work and volunteer experiences.
Another significant hurdle is securing sponsorships. These partnerships are crucial, as they help fund youth scholarships and support college athletes. At Rochester FC, we’re proud to offer approximately 70% of our youth athletes financial assistance, but continued support from sponsors is vital to maintaining these opportunities for the next generation of players.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Soccer club
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
The entire Rochester FC staff
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Www.rochester-fc.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rochesterfcminnesota?igsh=MzQ5czlnb3A0Ynhh
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rochesterfootballclub?mibextid=ZbWKwL
- Twitter: https://x.com/RochesterClub?t=MRKrSr1gKyPkinwu_8189Q&s=09
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@rochesterfcminnesota?si=KBgumIz2j-jC_wZ1
