A new professional soccer team in Music City has been named the Nashville FC, according to officials with the United Soccer League.
The name and logo, including a fleur-de-lis, were unveiled at a ceremony just after noon Friday at Bridgestone Arena.
Many speakers, including Mayor Megan Barry, spoke of the tremendous efforts that went into bringing the soccer team to Nashville.
“We couldn’t be more excited about the enthusiasm and momentum we are witnessing here in Nashville,” said Alec Papadakis, chief executive officer of the USL. ”We are proud to officially welcome Nashville FC to the USL and even prouder of the commitment we have seen from the ownership group, Mayor Barry, the Nashville City Council and the area’s many soccer supporters.”
Those with USL said they were inspired by many things in Nashville, including manufacturing, entertainment, and millennial entrepreneurs.
“This day belongs to everyone who has been part of Nashville soccer, and thank you for welcoming me and my family into the Nashville soccer community,” said David Dill, the owner of Nashville FC, also known as Nashville Football Club. “It especially belongs to those who have made it something special to be involved with in the last few years.”
Dill added that this team did not belong to the USL or the owner. Fans cheered as he continued by saying it was the city’s team, the fans’ team.
The team's logo was described by the USL as:
"The Nashville FC crest features the blue and gold colors of the Metro Nashville city seal with the overall shape and formation of the circular 'N' along with a small center circle representing a spinning record, paying respect to Nashville’s 'Music City' heritage. The fleur-de-lis also comes from the city seal, and the circle band encompassing the logo features a 'divide' that represents the numerous Civil War battles that took place in the region."
Officials with Nashville FC also announced a ticket deposit plan including:
- A $25 deposit will entitle purchasers up to four season tickets that will include 18 games.
- The team is also accepting $50 deposits for premium season tickets that will include 18 games.
For more on the deposit plan, visit the team's website by clicking here.
Nashville FC has been set to begin play in 2018.
For more information on the USL and Nashville FC, click here.
