If young women were looking for a place to play local soccer professionally, they've finally found a permanent home.

FC Lehigh Valley United Lady Sonic will join their male counterparts (FC LVU Sonic) this summer as a local professional club.

Men's team head coach Dave Weitzman conducted an open tryout for prospective players on March 10, evaluating 40 women and 40 men during the first off-season session at finding new talent.

Weitzman helped lead the men's team to a national championship last season and a number-one ranking in the country for all NPSL and PDL teams. He hopes the women's side can have similar fortunes, as they become members of the WPSL (Women's Professional Soccer League).

"Young players need to be able to see and aspire towards playing at the next level," said Weitzman. "That's why we've decided to help build this women's team."

The Lehigh Valley women's scene at a professional level has been barren since the Northampton Laurels FC folded in 2008.

This new club should bring more stability and support for the women's game, as local college players, from Division I through Division III will make up the primary roster for Lady Sonic.

Just as the men's team has done in the past, high school players will also be able to make the roster.

The WPSL has over 70 teams across the country that compete for the WPSL National Championship. Adam Hayne, a former assistant men's coach for FC LVU Sonic, has been appointed head coach of FC LVU Lady Sonic.

Mike McNeish, a long time successful youth soccer coach in the Lehigh Valley, has been appointed General Manager.

"Players can use opportunities like these as springboards for their career," said Weitzman. "It's important for women to have these same opportunities as well."

The Sonic will also have a new home for contests this season, as Whitehall High School has become the newest venue for the club. All home games will be televised live on Service Electric as well.