At their Kickoff event this afternoon, FC Tucson rolled out the red carpet to host season ticket members, the media, and civic/business leaders from across Tucson. Joining them was Phoenix Rising Coach Rick Shantz, the Phoenix Rising Front Office, as well as Co-owners Berle Bakay, and Tim Riester.

Tim Riester started off the event by sharing the vision and passion that the Phoenix Rising ownership group has to see soccer thrive in Southern Arizona. He then introduced FC Tucson Head Coach Darren Sawatzky. Coach Sawatzky shared about some of his past coaching experience, as assistant coach, he was one of first professional hires made by the Seattle Sounders. He also talked about his respect for FC Tucson’s history and that he hopes to not just engage, but be apart of the community.

Then, Pima County Supervisor Richard Elias discussed the history and future of FC Tucson’s current home, Kino Sports Complex. Last year, the Pima County Board of Supervisors approved a $60 million dollar expansion to Kino Sports Complex that will add 12 new soccer fields as well as commercial and real estate development. There is no word on any planned upgrades to the existing field and stands used by FC Tucson.

The event concluded with FC Tucson players being brought out and introduced. Afterward, players and staff were available for media interviews and to talk with fans. Later this week I will release another roster update that includes some of these conversations. Also, Coach Shantz was gracious enough to take the time to answer a few questions regarding the rosters and the relationship between the two clubs. I’m looking forward to writing more about that in the next few weeks.

30 days until the start of the season.