Flamingos, meet badgers. Forward Madison FC is inviting its fans to come to a holiday party meet-and-greet with the team's first player from Wisconsin on Friday, Dec. 21 at 5 p.m. in the Forward Madison club shop. The shop is located at 834 E. Washington Ave., Suite 229.

The party will feature gift-wrapping services for fans who buy merchandise, as well as free cookies and hot chocolate. Head Coach Daryl Shore and Managing Director Peter Wilt will be on hand to introduce the new player before he speaks to fans directly.

The new player, who was born and raised in Wisconsin, will stick around following the announcement to sign autographs and take photos.

According to Shore, the new player will play a large role in Forward Madison's inaugural season.

"It's important as we build our roster that we have players with Wisconsin ties that our fans will have local knowledge of," Shore said. "More than that, this player really fits into the team. For us to get a player of his capabilities, it's a huge plus for our club."