When it comes to soccer in the United States, the MLS has been the dominant force for years. Teams like the LA Galaxy, New York Red Bulls, and Seattle Sounders have been the face of American soccer for quite some time. However, there’s a new team making waves in the soccer world and it’s not an MLS team. Phoenix Rising FC is a United Soccer League (USL) team that has been turning heads with their impressive play and forward-thinking approach to running a soccer team.
Phoenix Rising FC was founded in 2014 and was originally known as Arizona United SC. The team played its first season in the USL in 2014 and did moderately well, finishing in 9th place out of 14 teams in the Western Conference. However, the team struggled in the following seasons and didn’t make any significant progress on the field.
Everything changed for Phoenix Rising FC in 2017 when the team was acquired by new owners and rebranded as Phoenix Rising FC. The team’s new owners, which included former Chelsea and Ivory Coast striker Didier Drogba, had big plans for the team and wasted no time in making changes. They brought in former Liverpool and LA Galaxy midfielder Steven Gerrard as a consultant and signed players with experience playing in top European leagues.
The team’s new approach paid off as they went on an impressive winning streak in both the USL regular season and the playoffs. Phoenix Rising FC went on to win the Western Conference Championship in 2018, but fell short in the USL Championship game against Louisville City FC.
Despite falling just short of winning the USL Championship, Phoenix Rising FC had made a name for themselves in the soccer world. The team’s impressive play on the field, combined with their willingness to bring in top talent from around the world, had caught the attention of soccer fans and pundits.
Phoenix Rising FC continued their winning ways in 2019, finishing with the best regular-season record in the USL. The team also made headlines when they signed former Mexican international Omar Bravo, who had played for some of the top clubs in Mexico during his career.
Phoenix Rising FC is more than just a soccer team. The team’s owners have a grand vision for the club and the surrounding community. The team’s home field, Casino Arizona Field, is located on the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community and the team has made a concerted effort to engage with the Native American community.
Phoenix Rising FC has also made a commitment to sustainability and reducing their carbon footprint. The team has installed a solar panel system at their practice facility and has made efforts to reduce waste during games and events.
Phoenix Rising FC may not have the same name recognition as some of the other top soccer teams in the United States, but they are quickly making a name for themselves with their impressive play on the field and innovative approach off the field. With the support of passionate fans and committed ownership, Phoenix Rising FC has the potential to be a major player in American soccer for years to come.