December 1 – USL team Arizona United SC are renaming themselves Phoenix Rising FC and preparing to play the 2017 season in a brand new stadium, part of a 15.8 acre soccer complex being developed in the Valley of the Sun.
The USL, the third tier of professional soccer in the US, has doubled in teams to 29 since 2014, with clubs playing a 32-game regular season from 2017. The rebranded Phoenix Rising FC will play in the Western conference and has quickly stated an ambition to perform at the top of that division.
“We are thrilled to announce this new era for professional soccer in Arizona,” said Phoenix Rising FC Governor Berke Bakay. “These planned investments should serve as proof that we are serious about creating a successful soccer franchise in our state. We seek to prove that the Valley of the Sun can deliver a successful United Soccer League team and eventually compete at the highest levels of soccer.”
The new Phoenix Rising FC soccer complex is a collaboration with the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community (SRPMIC) and the Solanna Group, located at McClintock and the 202 Freeway bordering the cities of Tempe and Scottsdale.
“The USL is truly excited about the future of Phoenix Rising FC, which has a dynamic and dedicated ownership group focused on success,” said USL Executive Vice President and Chief Revenue Officer Tom Veit.
David Fordon, CEO and General Manager of the Solanna Group said: “We appreciate the club’s commitment to bring a state-of-the-art, FIFA stadium designed for Arizona’s climate to Salt River as a significant contribution to the economic growth of the Community. We’re happy for the Valley and thrilled by the zeal and excitement that professional soccer will bring to all the passionate fans for the sport that are eager for top fight competition and international exhibitions. We very much welcome the addition of Phoenix Rising FC to our community.”
With the emphasis of this project being very much on community, Rising FC Head Coach and President of Soccer Operations Frank Yallop said: “Phoenix Rising FC is very interested in the development of the next generation of male and female soccer players.”
The club has formed a partnership with the Arizona Youth Soccer Association (AYSA). “Arizona’s professional soccer team, Phoenix Rising FC, is a natural fit as the official partner of AYSA’s most competitive leagues, Arizona Premier and Arizona State League. We look forward to working together for the benefit of youth players in Arizona,” said AYSA Executive Director Leslie Johnson.
Contact the writer of this story at moc.l1713555595labto1713555595ofdlr1713555595owedi1713555595sni@n1713555595osloh1713555595cin.l1713555595uap1713555595