The Battery have been one of USL's top clubs since day one in 1993. After an 8-8 inaugural campaign, the Battery won the division title in its second season and reached the semifinals. The following year, Charleston won the regular season title. In 1996, the Battery hosted the Pro League's Sizzlin' Six championship tournament, defeating the Charlotte Eagles for the title, 3-2, via a shootout. The club joined the A-League the following year and after suffering its only two losing seasons has become one of the top teams in the league. In 1999, the Battery surprised many with a run to the U.S. Open Cup semifinals. While enjoying increasing success each year on the field, this organization's crowning achievement may have come off the field in 1999 when it opened the 5,100-seat, soccer-specific Blackbaud Stadium. The facility features 2,500 reserved armchair seats, an interactive area and the Three Lions Pub, an English-style pub with soccer memorabilia from around the world. The stadium has played host to several events, including the 2002 CONCACAF Group B qualifying tournament for the FIFA World Youth Championship. The ownership of the Battery were brought together by current Colorado Rapids Head Coach Tim Hankinson, who founded the club behind the financial backing of several individuals including Tony Bakker, Miles Barkley, Nigel Cooper, John Powers and Ann Hunter.