Bay FC, the NWSL’s newest expansion team, has announced that it will play at PayPal Park in San Jose, Calif., when it joins the league in 2024. The team has also revealed plans for a state-of-the-art facility and significant infrastructure investments to support its growth and operations. Here’s everything you need to know about Bay FC’s exciting developments.
Investment in a World-Class Facility
Bay FC has committed to investing over $3 million in a standalone facility adjacent to PayPal Park. This facility will span 3,600 square feet and will serve as the team’s central home for game-day operations. It will include a locker room, office areas, lounges, training rooms, hydrotherapy facilities, and more. This investment demonstrates Bay FC’s dedication to providing its players with top-notch amenities and creating an environment conducive to athlete development.
Infrastructure Investments and Training Venue
In addition to the standalone facility, Bay FC’s investor group has pledged significant infrastructure investments to support the club’s growth and operations. One of these investments includes the construction of a training venue at a yet-to-be-announced location. This venue will provide the team with a dedicated space for training sessions and full-team workouts. Bay FC also plans to hold exhibition matches and other events around the Bay Area and Northern California to engage with fans and showcase their talent.
PayPal Park: A Premier Venue
Bay FC’s choice of PayPal Park as its home stadium is a strategic move. PayPal Park, which opened in 2015, is already home to MLS’ San Jose Earthquakes and has a seating capacity of 18,000. The stadium has a proven track record of hosting successful soccer events, including the U.S. women’s national team’s World Cup send-off match against Wales, which drew a sellout crowd on July 9. By playing at PayPal Park, Bay FC aims to leverage the existing infrastructure and create a vibrant soccer atmosphere for its fans.
Excitement from Key Figures
Bay FC’s CEO, Brady Stewart, expressed his enthusiasm for the team’s new home at PayPal Park. He believes that the stadium provides an ideal environment for athlete development and next-level fan experiences. Jared Shawlee, the president of the San Jose Earthquakes, also welcomed Bay FC to PayPal Park and praised the club for its dynamic brand. Shawlee looks forward to witnessing Bay FC’s world-class players in action and working closely with the team to build a strong soccer community in Northern California.
San Jose mayor Matt Mahan also shared his excitement about having a hometown team to support. He acknowledged the immense talent that the Bay Area and Northern California have contributed to professional women’s soccer and believes that Bay FC will provide a platform for young women in the community to pursue their dreams.
Bay FC’s Impressive Backstory
Bay FC made headlines when it was announced as the NWSL’s 14th team in April. The club boasts a star-studded group of founders, including USWNT players Brandi Chastain, Leslie Osborne, Danielle Slaton, and Aly Wagner. The majority investor, Sixth Street, has committed $125 million to the club. Notably, NBA champion Andre Iguodala is also part of the investor group, further adding to Bay FC’s star power.
In early June, Bay FC unveiled its name, badge, and branding, generating even more excitement among fans and the soccer community. The club’s strong foundation and impressive lineup of founders and investors position it for success both on and off the field.
Looking Ahead
With its choice of PayPal Park as its home stadium and plans for a world-class facility and infrastructure investments, Bay FC is making all the right moves to establish itself as a prominent team in the NWSL. The club’s commitment to athlete development and fan experiences sets it apart and creates a strong foundation for success. Soccer enthusiasts in the Bay Area and Northern California can look forward to supporting their hometown team and witnessing top-tier women’s soccer at PayPal Park starting in 2024.
(Photo: Darren Yamashita / USA Today)