It’s no surprise that the last two ticker-tape parades held in New York City were for championship sports teams. If you’re thinking the Yankees, the Giants, or maybe you’re a delusional Jets fan, you’re wrong. The USWNT that won the World Cup in 2015 and 2019 were both honored with parades down New York City’s Canyon of Heroes followed by a celebration taking place at City Hall.
No disrespect to the men’s national team, but the US Women dominate their sport. Players such as Megan Rapinoe, New Jersey’s Carli Lloyd, and Long Islands Crystal Dunn have become role models to many children; both girls and boys.
The new season of the National Women’s Soccer League has kicked off and the area’s former Sky Blues have been rebranded with a new name, a new logo, and a new home stadium.
Now known as NJ/NY Gotham FC, the team will play its home matches at the beautiful soccer-specific Red Bull Arena in Harrison, New Jersey. With 25,000 seats and access to public transportation, the games should be more easily accessible for fans.
Part of the reason for the team’s new identity is to help grow the team’s fanbase. This includes a new partnership with one of the city’s most popular youth clubs, Downtown United. Gotham FC will develop new players and its reserve players in conjunction with Downtown United. The Gotham FC Reserves will be a part of the semi-professional Women’s Premier Soccer League. They will play their matches on Randall’s Island which is already home to many youth and adult soccer leagues.
With this partnership, Gotham FC is hoping to provide more opportunities for girls to develop and advance in the game.
The first match of the NWSL season is next month, but teams are now taking part in the 2021 NWSL Challenge Cup. Gotham FC has two wins and is currently in first place in their division.
Carli Lloyd is the most recognizable name on the roster, but Gotham FC also includes international stars, Sodam Lee of South Korea, and former Japan National Team player Nahomi Kawasumi.
Gotham FC has a brand-new logo and color scheme. The club's new crest has a shield featuring the crown of the Statue of Liberty. The team’s official colors are sky blue, black, and white.
