On Tuesday afternoon in Jacksonville, Florida, a momentous announcement was made. The city welcomed its very first women's major league sports franchise. Sporting Club Jacksonville, established in 2020 and with an ownership group that includes notable figures like Tim Tebow and Fred Taylor, along with Mayor Donna Deegan, USL Super League President Amanda Vandervort, and leadership from the University of North Florida, took the stage at the University of North Florida.

Jacksonville's Sporting Revolution: Empowering Women in Sports

Announcement and Partnership Details

Steve Livingstone, the President and CEO of Sporting JAX, expressed excitement about partnering with the University of North Florida and bringing the inaugural women's professional season to Hodges Stadium. This team is set to make history as the first major league women's professional sports team for Jacksonville and the First Coast. While plans are in progress for a permanent stadium location for both the women's and men's teams, Hodges Stadium will serve as the interim home for the women's team from Fall 2025 through Spring 2026, hosting regular season matches and friendlies.Amanda Vandervort, president of the USL Super League, emphasized that Sporting JAX will be a great addition to the league. She looks forward to seeing them take the field at UNF next fall.Mayor Deegan, in her speech at the press conference, passionately stated her belief in women's participation in all aspects of sporting life. She extended hearty congratulations to all involved and highlighted the significance of this leap forward for the sports community.UNF President Dr. Moez Limayem reminded the audience that Tuesday's announcement is "historic" and will be remembered for decades. He emphasized the "win, win, win" approach in their partnerships.

Ticket and Membership Information

Tickets for the professional women's club are already on sale and can be purchased through SportingJax.com/tickets. Club memberships are free, but season ticket holders will enjoy exclusive benefits. They will have the opportunity to attend special events, meet new players and coaches, and can also transfer and switch out their match tickets if they are unable to attend a game. Additionally, children aged 3 and under are allowed to enter games for free, while kids aged 6 and under have a "reduced season ticket pricing option." This reflects the club's commitment to making Sporting JAX matches accessible and inclusive to everyone in the community.This new franchise is not just about sports; it's about empowering women and creating a more inclusive sporting environment in Jacksonville. The arrival of Sporting Club Jacksonville marks a significant milestone in the city's sports history and is sure to inspire future generations of female athletes.