Not unlike the mythical bird in Greek lore rising from the ashes, newly formed FC Tucson can be likened to a Phoenix rising out of the talented soccer community dormant since the slumber of the Tucson Amigos. So melodious was the mythical Phoenix that the sun-god stopped his chariot to listen, now it appears all of Tucson is stopping to listen to the news of these weekend games that will be showcasing Tucson’s new team and this new potential new use for vacant historic Hi-Corbett field.
This Friday, March 4th and Saturday, March 5th the songs of soccer fans will be equally harmonious when the games begin. I predict that the stadium parking lot will be filled with chariots of soccer aficionados gleaming in joy.
The matches bring powerhouses of Major League Soccer, Sporting Kansas City and New York Red Bulls – featuring the French National Team World Cup winner Thierry Henry, Mexican National super stars Omar Bravo and Rafael Marquez among others. This is going to be a pure visual delight for the folks who have never seen live professional soccer and heaven for those whose have never seen it in the Old Pueblo. The physicality and athleticism displayed is par excellance. Come see for yourself.
Folks, this is a big deal for Tucson. I think they call it economic development. The economic stimulus potential with a professional soccer team is tremendous! There is a strong probability that the creation of an on-going “Desert Cup” will be an event that could well place Tucson in the vanguard of soccer nationwide. There is a strong possibility that Tucson will now have a professional soccer team competing in a competitive league and offering a great viewing experience for the community. There is a strong possibility that FC Tucson as an organization will continue to attract top level opponents to come play in the Old Pueblo. There is a strong possibility that MLS teams might seek Tucson out as a spring training destination in the future – recognizing the commitment of our fan base. And I have heard there is even talk about our town as a potential USL or NASL expansion city. And maybe one day MLS. We can only dream, folks.
We have the weather, the stadium, the demographics, the loyal fans! All this immense amount of support manifested itself together in a very real way in no more than a couple of months. Chapman Tucson, the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Viscount Suites, El Charro, Cox Communications, the Tucson City Council, specifically Councilman Paul Cunningham and many others are to be thanked a thousand times for having the vision to get on board and try do something positive for Tucson! Among all the “do nothings” we have found a group who believe in progress and can take action.
We need Tucson to welcome these professional athletes to Tucson and showcase our community to a growing industry, Major League Soccer. And we especially need you to support the local team, FC Tucson, in this “Rocky” like showdown at sundown this Friday at 8pm against NY. Remind our guys, that “nobody pushes us around in our house!” This weekend Hi Corbett is FC Tucson’s House! Can you imagine how fast the word would travel if our start up team were to prevail over the mighty New York Red Bulls? Maybe it’s a dream folks, but with a little fan support behind them, anything is possible for these dreamers.
Lets each do our little part to make FC Tucson, and soccer, a positive model for our youth and a healthy form of family entertainment. Even before the first whistle is blown or the first beer is poured, the Desert Cup is a huge win for our community. I will see you there folks and raise my glass to Tucson and Soccer!
Tickets can be purchased Hi Corbett Field at Randolph Park Friday and Saturday, or in advance at www.fctucson.com or in person at the “The Shop” on 3050 North Campbell Ave. For more information call 520-334-1115.
PS. The FC Tucson Team Administration has been very helpful to the veteran community.