Mills and DiNuzzo Reunited when VBU Hosts Charlottesville Blues FC

By Nicholas King — May 18, 2024

Following a dramatic 1-0 victory over Northern Virginia FC on Wednesday, Virginia Beach United is set to face an unfamiliar opponent on Saturday night: Charlottesville Blues FC. This match not only marks the first encounter between the two clubs but also serves as Charlottesville's franchise debut in the USL2 Chesapeake League, having joined after the 2023 season.

Despite their inexperience at the semi-professional level, the Blues are brimming with talent. Seventeen of their twenty listed players competed at the Division I collegiate level last fall, with nine of them regularly starting for their respective schools. Leading this skilled roster is head coach Tommy DiNuzzo. A former Mary Washington midfielder, DiNuzzo now directs Division III Hampton-Sydney, where he holds the school and ODAC record for the longest unbeaten streak at 23 games.

Virginia Beach United's newly appointed head coach, Chris Mills, is well-acquainted with DiNuzzo. The two veteran coaches have faced each other 7 times at the collegiate level, with DiNuzzo holding a 4-3 advantage in head-to-head matchups. However, USL2 presents a different stage entirely.

With two games under his belt, several returning stars, and a current second-place standing in the Chesapeake Division, Mills has a favorable position going into Saturday's showdown. His defensive unit has been stellar, allowing just one goal in two matches. However, if the offense's lack of production persists, it could be a tough night for United fans. The game kicks off at 7 pm on Saturday.