Cleveland Force (1978–1988)

Akron businessman Eric J. Henderson, who had been involved in ownership of the Cleveland Cobras of the American Soccer League in 1977, was the Force's first owner.

The team's nickname was a reference to the Force, a mystical power used by the Jedi Knights in the then recently released film Star Wars.

The Force was placed in the Central Division with Houston, which finished the previous year with the best record, and expansion teams in Detroit, St. Louis and Wichita.

The result was pretty much the same as the Force tied for last place in the division with the St. Louis Steamers Cleveland made it to the playoffs for the first time the following season with a 21–19 record, then fell back again in 1981–82.

Despite success on the field and at the turnstiles, Wolstein grew increasingly displeased with other MISL owners failing to put as much time, effort and money into their franchises as he did.