Why San Diego FC Should Be Your New Favorite MLS Club
Putting community first, the upstart club sets aim to inspire San Diego in its inaugural season.
By Devin Pangaro
San Diego sports fans routinely take it to another level. That’s just a fact. We pack Petco Park with 40,000 faithful Padres fans on the regular, go certifiably insane whenever the Aztecs are in the Big Dance, and stop what we’re doing to relive old Chargers memories with complete randoms. We embrace our teams just as we embrace our city – with an unapologetic and pure passion. This is why the introduction of San Diego FC, the region’s first MLS club (and new GOVX partner) marks a monumental shift to the local sports scene. Set to begin play at Snapdragon Stadium in February 2025, here’s a primer on what you need to know about the partnership and the upcoming season.
WE ARE #WovenIntoOne
More than a hashtag or a slogan, the Woven Into One message is one of a much deeper meaning. Reflected by the flow design featured in the heart of the crest, each line represents the 18 cities located in the San Diego area, intertwining and uniting the community and vibrant cultures that call it home.
Presently, the club is embarking on a Chrome Ball Tour through each of the 18-cities in a free celebration of the game.
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THE BRAND IS STRONG
Adorned in chrome and azul colorways, the new kits and merchandise has quickly taken the MLS world by storm. Although they've yet to play a match, San Diego FC have already amassed a loyal following of early supporters and even opened up a pop-up shop for official club merchandise here in San Diego.
HERE COMES CHUCKY
After a prestigious career playing in his home country of Mexico, Hirving “Chucky” Lozano became the first designated player in San Diego FC history in June after agreeing to terms on a four-year contract. The 28-year old winger etched his name in soccer history by scoring the game-winning goal against defending champion Germany in the 2018 FIFA World Cup.
MANNY MACHADO AND JOCK WILLINK ARE MEMBERS OF THE OWNERSHIP GROUP
Two names that should resonate on a local and national scale, the San Diego baseball and military luminaries have both been announced as part of the ownership group. The 6-time MLB all-star and current Padres third baseman, Machado serves as a founding partner for SDFC and participated in the unveiling event at Snapdragon Stadium.
Founder of Jocko Fuel supplements, retired U.S. Navy SEAL Officer, and acclaimed author and podcast host Jocko Willink recently joined the ownership group as a Club Partner. A San Diego resident, Willink will be tasked with developing a comprehensive community program framework designed to actively involve and honor the local armed services community.
A RIGHT TO DREAM ACADEMY IS COMING TO SAN DIEGO
Currently featuring five soccer academies across the world, San Diego FC is a proud member of the Right to Dream program. Facilitating a holistic environment that blends advanced soccer training with world-class education and character development, the program’s goal is to nurture the personal and professional growth of athletes and make a positive impact on the community. Upon completion, the San Diego FC Right to Dream Academy will offer free schooling, residency, and a sports performance center for the first team and academy teams. The campus will feature dining facilities, three natural turf fields, and two synthetic turf fields.
WE'VE TEAMED UP TO FORM A WINNING PARTNERSHIP
With GOVX serving as the Official Military and First Responder Discount Provider for San Diego FC, members such as yourself will be available to secure exclusive savings on single-game tickets for all home matches.
Additionally, we’re stoked to also be the Presenting Partner for all Color Guard and Military Appreciation ceremonies during each home match and will be working with the club to create an integrated charitable program in support of our nation’s military non-profit organizations.
Soccer fans, we'll see you real soon.
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