The city of Denver has officially unveiled the name for its new National Women`s Soccer League (NWSL) expansion team: Denver Summit FC. This announcement is more than just a formality; it signifies a robust step forward for women`s professional sports, as Denver prepares to join the league`s ranks in 2026, building a future as towering as its namesake mountains.
A Name Forged by the Community, Inspired by the Landscape
In a refreshing departure from boardroom directives, the Denver NWSL franchise entrusted its identity to the very community it seeks to represent. Through an extensive “Name The Club” campaign, over 15,000 votes and diverse suggestions flooded in, a testament to the fervent enthusiasm for professional women`s soccer in Colorado. Among six carefully pre-selected options, all intrinsically linked to Denver`s unique character, “Denver Summit FC” emerged as the clear favorite. It’s a name that not only anchors the team to its geographical roots but also perfectly encapsulates an overarching ambition.
Jen Millet, President of Denver Summit FC, succinctly captured the essence of this collaborative venture: “It was vital for us to name our club in collaboration with our community. Our crest, colors, and brand are representative of Denver and all of Colorado. It embraces our aspirational goals and pioneering spirit to build the best soccer club in the world.” Indeed, the name is not merely a label; it’s a promise, echoing the community`s desire for a club that truly reflects their spirit and landscape.
The Aesthetic of Ambition: Branding and Vision
The visual identity of Denver Summit FC, masterfully crafted by acclaimed soccer graphic designer Matthew Wolff, is a harmonious blend of nature and aspiration. Sporting hues of green, white, red, and sandstone, the team`s crest and colors are a direct nod to Colorado`s diverse natural beauty – from verdant forests to rugged red rock formations and snow-capped peaks. This isn`t just about pretty colors; it`s about conveying a deeply rooted sense of place and purpose.
Rob Cohen, Controlling Owner of Denver Summit FC, articulated this vision with clarity: “Coloradans are passionate about the outdoors, so it was always our vision that the crest should depict our natural surroundings. Our elevation offers us a distinct home field advantage, and our goal is to build a club that is always pursuing excellence on and off the field. Much like the picturesque Rocky Mountains, our charge is to stand apart while always reaching for new heights.” One might even suggest a subtle competitive advantage in simply being at altitude, but the true aspiration, it seems, is less about thin air and more about thick resolve.
Laying Foundations: Infrastructure and High-Profile Investment
The commitment to Denver Summit FC`s future extends far beyond a compelling name and attractive branding. The franchise is strategically investing in foundational infrastructure that signals serious long-term intent. Ground has already been broken on a state-of-the-art performance center, a crucial hub for player development, training, and overall team readiness. More significantly, the franchise has pledged to construct a purpose-built NWSL stadium.
This impressive 14,500-seat facility, slated for completion in Spring 2028 at Sante Fe Yards, is poised to be a pioneering development. It`s designed to be the first sports and entertainment district in Colorado specifically constructed for professional women`s sports. This undertaking isn`t just about building a stadium; it’s about constructing a legacy, providing a dedicated stage for female athletes that few other markets currently offer. Adding further gravitas to this endeavor is the involvement of celebrated former NFL quarterback Payton Manning as a minority investor, signaling broad appeal and confidence in the venture.
A New Horizon for Women`s Sports in the Mile High City
As the 16th franchise to join the rapidly expanding NWSL, Denver Summit FC arrives at a pivotal moment for women`s professional soccer. The league continues its impressive trajectory, regularly smashing attendance records and captivating an ever-growing audience. Alongside its fellow 2026 expansion team, Boston Legacy FC, Denver will contribute to a league that is not merely expanding in numbers, but deepening its footprint in the cultural and sporting landscape.
The journey to the inaugural kick-off in 2026 is now officially underway. With its name rooted in community pride and mountain-sized aspirations, its identity mirroring Colorado`s enduring spirit, and a concrete commitment to world-class infrastructure, Denver Summit FC is charting a course not just to compete, but to truly stand apart. The Mile High City is ready to welcome a new kind of summit, one built on skill, dedication, and the collective passion for the beautiful game.
Gareth Pendleton