By HERNAN GUTIERREZ
WISH-TV | wishtv.com
A hometown standout for the Indy Eleven is setting sights on returning to the USL Championship Playoffs this season. The team is preparing for its home opener against regional rival Detroit City FC later this month.
Midfielder Logan Neidlinger joined WISH-TV’s Daybreak Tuesday morning to give an outlook on the 2026 season. This will be the 20-year-old’s third year with the team.
Last year, he was the youngest player on the roster. He grew up on Indy’s south side and went to Roncalli High School for two years. He finished out his last two years online to be able to train with the Indy Eleven full-time.
“Growing up in Indy, it’s been a dream to play for Indy Eleven all my life,” Neidlinger said. “It’s definitely a dream come true.”
This year, the local star says fans can expect a more direct style of play on the pitch and more chemistry on the team.
Neidlinger is hopeful that several off-season signings will reenergize the squad.
“Last year, we kind of lacked a little bit of hunger and desire to win,” Neidlinger said. “By bringing in a lot of younger guys, we’ve kind of brought that back. We’ve got guys who are more willing to work hard and do their job.”
Indy Eleven started its 2026 USL Championship campaign on the road with a 0-1 loss to Brooklyn FC.
It continues with a U.S. Open Cup match at Grand Park in Westfield against Des Moines Menace on March 17
The March 21 home opener at Carroll Stadium will feature the classic Indy Eleven family-friendly experience, including a kids’ zone.
“(Detroit City is) one of our rivals,” Neidlinger said. “They’re going to be a good team this year, but we are expecting a good game. We obviously [want to] come out and win, and we want to put on a show for you guys and for the fans.”
Kickoff for the home opener is scheduled for 7 p.m. on March 21. For tickets, visit the Indy Eleven’s website.
This story originally appeared on WISH-TV at wishtv.com/sports/indy-eleven/indy-eleven-home-opener-detroit-2026/
