REBRANDS: Phoenix Rising FC Plans for Future of Soccer in Arizona
Phoenix Rising FC of the USL is planning for the future of Arizona soccer as the rebranded club prepares to kick off the 2017 USL season. Along with a group of sponsors, the organization plans to develop a soccer-specific facility bordering the cities of Tempe and Scottsdale.
USL Soccer News: Arizona’s only professional soccer franchise announced it has rebranded from Arizona United Soccer Club to Phoenix Rising Football Club ahead of the 2017 United Soccer League (USL) season.
Tom Veit, Executive Vice President and Chief Revenue Officer of the USL stated, “The USL is truly excited about the future of Phoenix Rising FC, which has a dynamic and dedicated ownership group focused on success.”
The news was shared by team ownership before a roomful of leaders within Arizona’s soccer community, fans and numerous businesses. The announcement was hosted by Phoenix Rising FC ownership—a group of successful Phoenix-based business owners.
Event guests were the first to hear about the club’s future plans with the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community (SRPMIC) and the Solanna Group to develop a soccer-specific facility at McClintock and the 202 Freeway bordering the cities of Tempe and Scottsdale. The club will kick off the 2017 soccer season at the new Phoenix Rising FC soccer complex.
“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.
David Fordon, Chief Executive Officer and General Manager of the Solanna Group LLC said, “We’re quite impressed by Phoenix Rising FC’s grasp of the goal we are trying to achieve at Akimel 7 for a quality sports and entertainment environment. We also 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.”
Phoenix Rising FC’s commitment to building a championship contending team has already started with talent from Canada, England, Jamaica, South Africa and the U.S. signed to its roster.
Head Coach and President of Soccer Operations for Phoenix Rising FC, Frank Yallop also shared details about a unique partnership with Arizona Youth Soccer Association (AYSA).
“Phoenix Rising FC is very interested in the development of the next generation of male and female soccer players. In fact, the club just re-signed last year’s team captain Blair Gavin, who is a product of an AYSA club team,” Yallop said.
“Arizona Youth Soccer Association is pleased and excited to announce our partnership with Phoenix Rising FC,” said AYSA Executive Director, Leslie Johnson. “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.”
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