Johnny Freeston joined us at Box State Footy to share insights about his beloved club, Harpos FC. With a significant presence in both real-life and online communities, the club boasts a rich history and lore that extends back to the early years of my Rapids fandom, predating the current media landscape. Before the inception of 'Holding the High Line,' which currently holds the title of the longest-running Rapids-focused podcast, there was the Flakoglast podcast. This podcast played a pivotal role as supporters of the club, championing not only the team but also the uphill battle of supporting non-league teams throughout Colorado. (Shoutout to the OG Colorado soccer podcasters)
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The club traces its origins back to 1997 when it was initially named 'Barrel House.' High school teammates Chris Hardin and Scotty Schuett, returning from their D1 stints, established the club. Freeston jokingly dubs this iteration of the club “the drinking team with a soccer problem”. Much like the soccer landscape of that time, Harpos underwent numerous changes and growth phases. In 2017, their new badge (pictured above) was crowdfunded, but the evolution of the club's identity was a journey. Transitioning from 'Barrel House' to 'The House,' the team then adopted the name 'Harpo’s Sports Bar and Grill' and eventually shortened it to 'Harpo’s,' later dropping the apostrophe with the introduction of the new logo. The name changes coincided with the bar they were based out of that permanently shut it’s doors in March 2018. The spirit of the bar now lives between the white lines.
Image Source: USA Today
When talking with Freeston, there’s a very palpable passion that bleeds through in to the conversation. Joining as a player in 2005, he witnessed the club still embracing its 'beer league' tendencies. In 2008, as the old guard retired and moved on, Freeston took on the role of managing director, essentially spearheading the relaunch of Harpo’s in 2010. His vision aimed to transform the club into a more professionally-run entity. The shift towards regular training sessions didn't occur until 2015, marking a turning point where the team's values and philosophies became clearer under Freeston’s leadership. Some that came to his mind during our conversation where club mantra’s like ‘work hard, play hard’, ‘family, character, excellence’ (which are found on the badge), and and the overarching belief that 'football is life.' More significantly, the club aspires to be a cornerstone in the Colorado soccer scene, fostering growth both on and off the pitch.
“We tell people when you come in, you get community, hard work, and a family. You may not have had that before but you’ll have it now with Harpos. The people here truly make the place. Everyone here can attest that Harpos is a support group.”
-Johnny Freeston
The club ensures this positive club philosophy by engaging within the local community. Whether it’s food and donation drives, volunteer fire needs in their city, or working with Left Hand Brewing, their sponsors, charitable efforts, Harpos aims to maintain that strong sense of character building outside the pitch. Another integral aspect of nurturing the club's culture is what Freeston refers to as the 'Lot Sessions.' Following their games and the subsequent facility teardown, Harpos initiates these sessions – a circle of trust where individuals can enjoy a cold beverage (alcohol not required), perch on coolers, and engage in discussions about life, football, and everything in between. Freeston points out that the longer one participates in a session, the colder it tends to get, mirroring the deepening intensity and reality of the conversations. It's this Socratic method that fortifies the bonds among club members and enhances the sense of community within Harpos.
Harpos Lot Session
On the field, Harpos stands tall among the prominent teams in the region, boasting a track record of considerable success over the years. The club's website proudly displays a comprehensive list of honors and awards garnered by various teams under its umbrella. Harpos field three primary teams: a first team (FC), a women’s team (W), and an over 30 team (OG’s), catering to former mainstays seeking a more relaxed pace on the field. Over the years, Harpos has welcomed over 1,000 different players, hailing from diverse backgrounds including academy, high school, collegiate, D1, and even professional ranks. Freeston adopts a proactive recruiting approach, emphasizing not only skillful players but, in alignment with the club's foundation, individuals of good character.
A standout figure in the Harpos legacy is Juan Pablo Caffa, who’s best years came whilst playing for Real Betis from 2007 to 2010. The experienced midfielder is hailed by Freeston as 'another level of player,' with the club's founder leaving an indelible mark with high praise for the seasoned athlete.
A recurring theme in this series of club profiles is the significant objective of US Open Cup qualification for each side. Harpos garnered widespread national attention during an epic Open Cup run in 2015, embarking on a 13-match gauntlet and clinching a remarkable upset against BYU in penalties on their home ground. This memorable journey not only brought the club increased visibility but also attracted sponsors and media outlets, as evidenced by coverage in the Guardian in the lead up to their game. Freeston stresses the importance of the tournament almost in the same candor of Azteca FC’s 5280 Andy de la Rosa. “The Open Cup brings a lot of eyes for everyone.” says Freeston, “(From) sponsors, to coaches and clubs looking to see players who may have fallen through the cracks.” The side qualified in 2015, 2016, and in 2020 but due to the pandemic weren’t able to formally compete; a missed opportunity for the club given how stacked the team was at the time.
Their run at the time resembled a marvelous Cinderella story that many today clamor to lay witness to. The team leaned heavily in to that underdog identity. They proudly were known as the #bullshitpubteam and wear the moniker today as a badge of honor. A glance through the hashtag reveals a treasure trove of content, providing a nostalgic journey to a not-so-distant era.
CSA Super League Champions
Harpos has an extensive roadmap for both the short and long term. In the immediate future, the aim is to compete in and triumph in the Spring Season of the Colorado Premier League. Subsequently, the club aspires to be a strong contender in the Open Cup, with hopes of securing qualification.
Looking ahead to the long term, Harpos has ambitious plans that align with the highly anticipated 2026 World Cup. Freeston, having witnessed firsthand the profound impact such events can have, envisions a future for the club that extends beyond local competitions, aiming for broader recognition and success on a global scale.
“A World Cup changes the landscape… It’s exciting times for soccer in Colorado from Sunday league teams to pro teams… Knowledge among the general soccer fan has grown tremendously since ‘94… In Colorado and other big markets, players are getting paid well to play and that will only continue going in to a World Cup year.”
-Johnny Freeston
Beyond the grandeur of a World Cup, and speaking in more general terms, Harpos is committed to upholding their core club values and fostering the growth of individuals within the organization. With a specific focus, the club aims to expand by incorporating additional teams. Moreover Freeston alluded to and teased me with their involvement in an ongoing “pro project” which he hinted at could potentially bring a pro side to the area further emphasizing Harpos' commitment to advancing soccer in the region..
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The passion radiating from Johnny Freeston as he spoke about his club is a sentiment that resonates with many. A captivating video showcasing the essence and ethos of the club, akin to scenes one might expect in theaters or dreams, has been produced. However, it's not a distant fantasy—it's here, and it's much closer than one might think.
The Colorado Premier League returns this Spring. Stay tuned for more Box State Footy coverage.
