TUCSON, AZ (February 18, 2021)–– FC Tucson announces an exciting new chapter under new ownership with Benevolent Sports Tucson, LLC. The new ownership agreement, led by Brett Johnson, transfers ownership from Phoenix Rising FC.
“I’ve always loved Tucson and been inspired by the culture of soccer here,” said Brett Johnson, who was a founding member of Phoenix Rising FC. “This town deserves a truly independent club built around the dynamic culture and ethos of this community. Tucson’s support of the MLS pre-season, the many years of success as an amateur team in the USL League 2, the 2019 transition to professional play in USL League One, and an affiliation with one of the largest youth soccer clubs in Tucson are clear indicators that Tucson is a market ready to support their own pro team. With last year’s arrival of a new club President, Amanda Powers, it’s the start of a new decade for professional soccer in Tucson, and I couldn’t pass on the opportunity to be involved.”
The timing of this announcement coincides with the recent news that the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup will return in 2021 after its first hiatus in more than 100 years. In recent seasons under Phoenix Rising’s technical control, FC Tucson was restricted from participating in U.S. Open Cup play. Now that the club is under full technical independence, it is again eligible to compete in the historic tournament.
“Phoenix Rising is passing the baton at the perfect time when now more than ever the local community needs our inspiration and attention,” said Amanda Powers, who shared her gratitude for the tremendous efforts from the team in the Valley.
Last year, FC Tucson navigated the COVID-19 health crisis of 2020 in unprecedented ways. Under the local leadership of Amanda Powers, Head Coach John Galas, and Director of Soccer Operations Jon Pearlman, the club pioneered safe paths to play, offering Tucson one of the only live sports opportunities of 2020. Through socially distanced watch-parties, ESPN+ broadcasts, and new community partnerships, FC Tucson found ways to inspire the community through the power of the beautiful game.
Even as the country continues to navigate the effects of COVID-19, Johnson looks forward to building on last year’s success with Powers, to establish a strong club in Tucson. ”We are guided by our core pillars, which are to become a championship-caliber club, create a world-class game-day experience, and be a pillar in the community,” said Johnson. “And the best way to do that is to be an independent team that’s locally managed and operated. Fuerza Tucson!”
For more information about the USL, uslsoccer.com
For more information about the FC Tucson Pro Academy, https://www.fctucson.com/academy
For more information on FC Tucson, visit www.fctucson.com
If you would like to hear from Brett, FC Tucson will be hosting a virtual town hall meeting on Wednesday February 24th at 6:30pm. To attend please click here to register.
