Community-driven partnership invests in Northeast Florida youth soccer, women’s professional soccer, and fan engagement

Sporting Club Jacksonville today announced a new multi-year partnership with VyStar Credit Union, naming VyStar the Exclusive Credit Union Partner of Sporting JAX as part of a community-driven collaboration focused on youth development, women’s professional soccer, and fan engagement across Northeast Florida.

As part of the agreement, VyStar will serve as a presenting partner of the club’s youth academy and community programming while receiving prominent brand visibility across Sporting JAX media platforms, matchday experiences and digital channels.

The partnership reflects a shared commitment to growing the game of soccer while investing in local communities across the First Coast.

“VyStar has been an incredible champion of Northeast Florida communities, and we’re proud to welcome them as the Exclusive Credit Union Partner of Sporting JAX,” said Mark Warburton, President of Soccer, Sporting JAX. “This partnership is about more than branding, it’s about creating opportunities for young athletes, supporting women’s professional soccer and delivering meaningful experiences for our fans. Together, we’re building something special here in Jacksonville. Pro Soccer. Pro Jax.”

Through the partnership, VyStar will play a prominent role in the Sporting JAX Youth Academy, including logo placement on academy jerseys and backpacks, as well as serving as presenting partner of academy events such as youth tournaments, Soccer Media Day and community soccer programming.

The agreement also includes integrated media and fan engagement opportunities across Sporting JAX platforms, including the club’s weekly radio programming, digital channels and matchday experiences.

“Sporting JAX captures the energy and momentum of soccer in Northeast Florida, and we’re proud to partner with an organization that shares our deep commitment to community impact,” said Dana Karzan, VyStar Chief Marketing Officer. “Building on our long‑standing support of professional, collegiate and community sports across the region, this partnership allows us to invest in youth soccer, connect with passionate fans and continue supporting the growth and vitality of the communities we serve.”

In addition to branding on the women’s professional team jerseys, VyStar will also have opportunities to engage directly with fans through matchday activations, hospitality experiences and promotional events throughout the season.

The partnership officially launched across Sporting JAX media platforms in early 2026.

Sporting Club Jacksonville announced today the addition of two new members to their men’s USL Championship inaugural roster. Midfielder and Sporting JAX Academy contract signing Jack Proctor and defender Ryan Edwards join the squad pending league and federation approval.

The signings add new depth to the inaugural roster along with youthfulness and experience ahead of their third match in their inaugural season in the USL Championship League.

“They are both incredible players and have already contributed a lot to the practices and the team,” said Head Coach Liam Fox. “They’re fitting right in with the rest of the team and it’s fun to watch.”

The addition of Jack Proctor marks the first Academy contract signing to the new squad. From Indianapolis, Indiana, the 17-year-old midfielder is getting his first taste of professional life. Proctor has spent the last year developing in the UPSL with DME Academy in Daytona Beach, and before that, has spent time on trial with English clubs like Middlesbrough FC.

“It’s obviously a big jump for me, but one that I’m excited to make,” said Proctor. “I’m learning a lot from the veteran guys and the level at which they play is much more competitive than what I’ve seen in my career so far, but it’s something that I think I can be a part of and make a contribution in whatever way I can.”

On the opposite side of the youthfulness, is the experience that 6’4” Ryan Edwards brings to the pitch. The defender, from Liverpool, is bringing veteran experience and leadership to the Sporting JAX backline. With experience in previous professional settings like the Indian Super League, where he captained Chennaiyin FC for two seasons, and Falkirk in the Scottish Premiership, Edwards is ready to bring a new level to the new squad.

“This is a good group,” said Edwards. “Mark (Warburton) and Liam (Fox) have put together some incredible players, and I’m just happy to be a part of it. Being on the very first roster of a new team is something every player dreams of, so this has been a great experience so far.”

Sporting JAX continues evolving as they kickoff their inaugural season in the USL Championship League. With two games under their belt, the squad heads into their third fixture of the season against Miami FC on Wednesday, March 25 at UNF Hodges Stadium.
Fans can find upcoming match details and ticket information at sportingjax.com, and can stay connected with the latest news, matchday updates, and behind-the-scenes stories by following @Sporting_JAX across all social platforms.

Sporting Club Jacksonville today announced the promotion of Mark Warburton to President of Soccer, reinforcing the club’s commitment to sustained growth, competitive excellence and global connectivity as it builds toward a landmark year for professional soccer on the First Coast.

Warburton, who has played a key role in shaping Sporting JAX’s soccer operations, will now lead all sporting initiatives, including player development, recruitment and international partnerships, as the club continues to expand its presence both domestically and abroad.

“Mark has been an integral part of building our soccer identity and vision from the ground up,” said Ricky Caplin, Majority Owner and Chairman, Sporting JAX. “His global experience, leadership and relationships across the game will be instrumental as we continue to establish Sporting JAX as a destination club and deepen our connections with international and strategic partners.”

Under Warburton’s leadership, Sporting JAX will continue to build strong on-field and organizational momentum. The club’s women’s team remains at the top of the table as it pushes toward the playoffs in its inaugural Gainbridge Super League season, while excitement continues to build around the launch of the men’s USL Championship team in 2026, including a sold-out atmosphere at UNF’s Hodges Stadium for its inaugural home opener.

“This is a pivotal moment for Sporting JAX,” said Warburton. “We are building something truly special in Jacksonville — a club with ambition, community at its core and a clear pathway to success. I’m honored to step into this role and continue driving our vision forward, both on the pitch and through meaningful global partnerships.”

As part of the transition, Sporting JAX has parted ways with Steve Livingstone. Livingstone has been a key contributor in building Sporting JAX into what it is today, and the club thanks him for his leadership and contributions while wishing him the best in his future endeavors.

Sporting JAX remains focused on carrying its momentum through the remainder of the women’s season and into a successful men’s team launch, continuing to deliver on its promise of Pro Soccer. Pro Jax.

Sporting Club Jacksonville announced today the signing of midfielder Thomas Roberts, who will wear No. 24 for the club.

Roberts, 24, brings experience across Major League Soccer, MLS NEXT Pro, European competition, and the USL Championship. A native of Little Rock, Arkansas, Roberts developed in the FC Dallas Academy before signing a Homegrown contract with FC Dallas. During his professional career, he has also played for North Texas SC, Austria Klagenfurt in the Austrian Bundesliga, Columbus Crew 2, Norwegian side Stabæk, and most recently North Carolina FC.

Roberts has also represented the United States at the U-16, U-18, and U-20 national team levels.

“I’m excited for the opportunity to join Sporting JAX and be part of building something special in Jacksonville,” said Roberts. “The vision for the club and the energy around soccer here made it an easy decision, and I’m ready to get to work.”

“Thomas is a very technical player who sees the game well and brings creativity to our midfield,” said Sporting JAX Head Coach Liam Fox. “We’re excited to welcome him to the group.”

Roberts joins Sporting JAX ahead of the club’s inaugural USL Championship season in 2026.

2026 slate includes Military Appreciation, 904 Night, Oktoberfest and more

Sporting Club Jacksonville announced the full lineup of match themes for their inaugural season in the USL Championship, kicking off on Saturday, March 7, 2026.

Things get started on March 7 as Sporting JAX plays its first USL Championship regular season match against Hartford Athletic. Festivities include a pre-match meet and greet with Jaguars legend and Sporting JAX co-owner Fred Taylor, a commemorative rally towel giveaway, firework show, a halftime show from rising Country star Madison Hughes and $1 beers.

A full list of each 2026 home match accompanying themes can be found below:

2026 Inaugural Season Home Match Schedule

• Saturday, Mar. 7: Sporting JAX vs. Hartford Athletic – Inaugural Match
  • Kickoff at 7:30 p.m. 
  • A night celebrating the team’s debut in the USL Championship, featuring fan giveaways, and a halftime concert with up-and-coming country artist Madison Hughes.

• Wednesday, March 25: Sporting JAX vs. Miami FC – Business Night
  • Kickoff at 7:30 p.m. 
  • Head to Hodges Stadium after work to enjoy the match with your colleagues, all while enjoying $1 beers.
    
• Saturday, April 4: Sporting JAX vs. Tampa Bay Rowdies – High School Soccer Double-Header
  • Kickoff at 7:30 p.m. (Men’s) and 2:00 p.m. (Women’s)
  • Showcasing the talent and passion of high school soccer programs throughout the First Coast. This match follows the afternoon’s Gainbridge Super League match in an exciting double-header.
    
• Saturday, April 25: Sporting JAX vs. Miami FC – Faith & Family Double-Header
  • Kickoff at 7:30 p.m. (Men’s) and 2:00 p.m. (Women’s)
  • A day full of fellowship, shared values and uplifting community moments. This match follows the afternoon’s Gainbridge Super League match in an exciting double-header.

• Wednesday, May 27: Sporting JAX vs. San Antonio FC – Mental Health Awareness
  • Kickoff at 7:30 p.m.
  • Shining a light on the importance of mental wellness, breaking the stigma and supporting one another both on and off the pitch. Plus, enjoy $1 beers at the match.

• Saturday, May 30: Sporting JAX vs. Brooklyn FC – Military Appreciation
  • Kickoff at 7:00 p.m.
  • Saluting active-duty service members and veterans with powerful tributes and in-game recognition.
    
• Saturday, June 6: Sporting JAX vs. Tampa Bay Rowdies – Florida Man Night
  • Kickoff at 7:00 p.m.
  • It’s time to get weird and embrace the state we know and love.
    
• Saturday, June 13: Sporting JAX vs. Detroit City FC – Inclusion Celebration
  • Kickoff at 7:00 p.m.
  • Celebrating the diverse individuals and communities that make the First Coast strong, fostering a welcoming environment where everyone belongs and the game is truly for all.
    
• Saturday, June 20: Sporting JAX vs. Charleston Battery – Celebrating Juneteenth
  • Kickoff at 7:00 p.m.
  • A tribute to Black heritage, leadership and legacy across Jacksonville and beyond.

• Wednesday, July 15: Sporting JAX vs. Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC – Small Business Night
  • Kickoff at 7:30 p.m.
  • Spotlighting the small businesses that bring a unique twist to the First Coast business community.
    
• Saturday, July 18: Sporting JAX vs. Brooklyn FC – World Cup Party
  • Kickoff at 7:00 p.m.
  • A nod to the world’s biggest tournament as it is hosted in the United States this summer.
    
• Saturday, Aug. 15: Sporting JAX vs. Indy Eleven – Back to School
  • Kickoff at 7:00 p.m.
  • Back to School: Get the kids ready for school with a fun summer sendoff.
    
• Saturday, Sept. 5: Sporting JAX vs. Lexington SC – 904 Night
  • Kickoff at 7:00 p.m.
  • Celebrating the unique place we call home–the one and only 904.
    
• Saturday, Sept. 12: Sporting JAX vs. Rhode Island FC – Throwback Night
  • Kickoff at 7:00 p.m.
  • Turn back the clock as we host a blast from the past that’s fun for every fan.

• Saturday, Sept. 26: Sporting JAX vs. Loudoun United FC – Hispanic Heritage
  • Kickoff at 7:00 p.m.
  • Honoring Northeast Florida’s vibrant Hispanic community and the legacy and leadership it contributes to the First Coast.
    
• Saturday, Oct. 3: Sporting JAX vs. Louisville City FC – Oktoberfest & Breast Cancer Awareness
  • Kickoff at 5:00 p.m.
  • Break out your lederhosen and steins for Oktoberfest. Plus, honoring all those who are fighting and have fought breast cancer in our community and beyond.
    
• Saturday, Oct. 10: Sporting JAX vs. Birmingham Legion FC – Fan Appreciation
  • Kickoff at 5:00 p.m.
  • A night celebrating our amazing fans that make it all possible.

Each match will be either streamed or broadcast nationally as part of the USL Championship’s partnership with the ESPN family of networks and CBS Sports. Additionally, matches that aren’t broadcast nationally can be seen locally on a Sporting JAX partner channel.

Fans can find upcoming match details and ticket information at sportingjax.com, and can stay connected with the latest news, matchday updates, and behind-the-scenes stories by following @Sporting_JAX across all social platforms.

The privately capitalized site in the Town Center area will serve as the permanent home for Sporting Club Jacksonville and anchor a transformative mixed-use sporting and entertainment district.

Sporting Club Jacksonville today announced a site in the Town Center area that will serve as the permanent home for the club and anchor a transformative mixed-use sporting and entertainment district in North Florida.

The landmark destination will integrate professional sports, entertainment, hospitality, residential living, and curated retail into a single, walkable district in North Florida. The project will create a true urban destination rooted in where Jacksonville already lives, works, shops, and gathers by being centrally located, easily accessible, and within 30 minutes of nearly the entire region. Positioned just a few hundred yards from major highway infrastructure, the site offers unmatched connectivity and positions the development to become one of the premier destinations north of Orlando.

The project is expected to generate a substantial long-term economic impact across North Florida, including construction jobs, permanent operational roles, expanded hospitality and retail employment, and increased tourism driven by regional and national events, positioning Jacksonville for outsized return potential as a premier sports and entertainment destination in the Southeast.

“What we’re building in North Florida is more than a stadium—it’s a permanent identity for Jacksonville and for this entire region,” said Ricky Caplin, Majority Owner and Chairman, Sporting JAX. “This is a privately led investment, backed by our own capital and a long-term commitment to doing something meaningful here. We’re creating a place where families gather, where young athletes see a pathway to opportunity, and where every child feels welcomed and valued. This is about investing in Jacksonville in a way that lasts for generations.”

“This project is deeply personal to me because Jacksonville is home,” said Tim Tebow, Owner and Board Member of Sporting JAX. “As we bring this vision to life, we’re committed to building more than a stadium. We’re creating a place where families feel welcome, where the special needs community is intentionally included, and where young athletes can see a pathway to pursue their dreams. This space will reflect the heart of Jacksonville and bring people together year-round.”

Anchored by a purpose-built stadium, the district will integrate restaurants, hotels, shopping, entertainment venues, and family-friendly gathering spaces into a cohesive, experiential destination. Rooftop activations, loft-style spaces, green space, and layered experiences will create a vibrant environment active 365 days a year, not just on match days. The development aims to elevate the Town Center area into a dynamic urban entertainment district unlike anything currently in Jacksonville.

“The real estate landscape is ever changing. Large scale projects today require a curated blend of uses that expand the reasons a project is relevant to more people – for more reasons. What we are building in Jacksonville promises to be truly unique,” said Michael McNaughton, President of Sporting JAX Development Company. “By integrating stadium, hospitality, residential, retail, and entertainment within a vertically oriented urban environment, we are creating a walkable, experiential district designed to drive long-term economic resilience and growth across North Florida.”

Beyond its physical design, the project is rooted in community impact. The stadium will serve as a civic asset, hosting professional matches for both the Sporting JAX men’s and women’s teams while also supporting high school championships, regional youth tournaments, college athletics, conference and club championships, major concerts, mentorship programming, and inclusive access for adaptive and special-needs athletes.

“Across the country, we’ve seen that professional soccer thrives when clubs have permanent, purpose-built homes rooted in their communities,” said Justin Papadakis, Deputy CEO & Chief Real Estate Officer of USL. “The most successful organizations in our league are anchored by stadiums that serve not only professional athletes but youth players, families, and neighborhoods. What Sporting JAX is building here positions Jacksonville as one of the premier soccer markets in the Southeast and reflects the long-term infrastructure required for the sport to grow sustainably and competitively.”

“What we’re building in Jacksonville is one of the highest-profile sports and development projects moving forward anywhere in the country right now,” said Fred Taylor, Owner, Sporting JAX. “This is about pride in North Florida, expanding access to the game, and creating real opportunity for the next generation. It’s about building something this community can rally around for decades to come.”

The district will serve as the permanent home for both the Sporting JAX men’s and women’s teams, reinforcing the club’s commitment to shared opportunity and long-term investment in the region.

Nationally recognized real estate executive to guide destination planning and deliver lasting economic and community value for North Florida.

Sporting Club Jacksonville announced that Michael McNaughton, a nationally recognized real estate executive with more than 30 years of experience in large-scale development, mixed-use placemaking, and complex real estate operations, has been named President of the Sporting JAX Development Company.

In this role, McNaughton will oversee all real estate, master-planning, and development initiatives tied to Sporting JAX’s long-term vision, guiding the creation of a purpose-built, community-centered sporting district that will serve as the permanent home for both the Sporting JAX men’s and women’s teams. His leadership marks a decisive step toward securing the club’s long-term future in Jacksonville and anchoring professional soccer in North Florida for generations to come.

“Innovation starts with top-tier talent,” said Ricky Caplin, Chairman of Sporting JAX. “Michael McNaughton has led some of the most ambitious and iconic development projects in the country, playing a key role in shaping destinations like the Palazzo, Mizner Park and the new World Trade Center in Lower Manhattan. Michael bringing that level of vision and experience to North Florida is a game-changer. We are thrilled to have a leader of Michael’s caliber guiding this effort. His leadership ensures this vision becomes a permanent home for Sporting JAX and a community-centered sporting district that delivers lasting economic and social value for the city.”

“I couldn’t be more excited about what we’re building in Jacksonville,” said Michael McNaughton, President of the Sporting JAX Development Company. “Sporting JAX is committed to investing in North Florida and creating a place that brings people together, reflects the energy of our city, and delivers lasting value for the community. Sporting JAX has a unique opportunity to create something truly groundbreaking and altogether new. I am honored to help lead that effort.”

McNaughton is the founder of M2 Real Estate Advisors and brings decades of executive-level experience across virtually every real estate asset class. His background includes leadership roles in street retail, mall and mixed-use redevelopment, office, hospitality, multifamily, infrastructure, industrial and flex space, and major transportation-integrated projects.

He also brings more than three decades of executive leadership at some of the most influential real estate organizations in the country. McNaughton previously served as Executive Vice President and COO of a major Jacksonville-based family office overseeing more than five million square feet of assets, where he drove strategic acquisitions, dispositions, and new development across the Southeast and grew the 70-year-old enterprise’s EBITDA by more than 30 percent.

Before relocating to Florida, McNaughton was Senior Vice President of U.S. Development for Westfield, where he led major national initiatives and played a key role in the redevelopment of the World Trade Center and the Fulton Transit Center in Lower Manhattan.

He also served as Founder and COO of Rouse Properties (NYSE: RSE), guiding the company from concept through IPO and building a 250-employee national platform with 31 assets totaling more than 21 million square feet. Earlier in his career, McNaughton held senior asset management and development roles at General Growth Properties, overseeing a 200-million-square-foot portfolio and serving on the four-person roadshow team that executed a $2.6 billion recapitalization of the company.

Throughout his career, McNaughton has partnered with public and private equity markets, participated in two NYSE IPOs, led complex restructurings and recapitalizations, and advised on globally significant destinations, including the World Trade Center redevelopment.

As Sporting JAX advances its stadium plan and surrounding mixed-use vision, McNaughton will lead development strategy for a broader, community-centered sporting district that integrates entertainment, dining, family-friendly amenities, public spaces, and year-round programming. The district will be designed for inclusive community use, positioning sport as a catalyst for innovation, access, and long-term social and economic benefit for Northeast Florida.

Club announces new kickoff time ahead of opening USL Championship match against Hartford Athletic

Sporting Club Jacksonville announced today the adjustment of the kickoff time for their inaugural men’s USL Championship match taking place on Saturday, March 7.

The match against Hartford Athletic, which was originally slotted for a 3 p.m. kickoff time, now has a scheduled kickoff of 7:30 p.m. This time change allows Sporting JAX to start its inaugural season in the USL Championship under the lights at Hodges Stadium, giving the historic occasion a true primetime feel.

“We’ve been waiting for this moment for a long time, and now will wait a few extra hours for the new nighttime start,” said Sporting JAX President and CEO Steve Livingstone. “Having this match kick off under the lights will make for a special atmosphere as we write the newest chapter of professional soccer history on the First Coast.”

Fans can find upcoming match details and ticket information at sportingjax.com, and can stay connected with the latest news, matchday updates, and behind-the-scenes stories by following @Sporting_JAX across all social platforms.

Thistle, Boyan and Cason add to the Sporting JAX roster ahead of the team’s second match against Lexington SC

Sporting JAX announces the addition of three new players to its Gainbridge Super League roster as the team heads into pivotal games as the season comes closer to an end. Midfielders Coco Thistle, Abby Boyan and Presley Cason join Sporting JAX pending league and federation approval.

The signings come ahead of a pivotal match for Sporting JAX as they play against No. 2 Lexington SC, who sit just one point behind Jacksonville in the standings.

“Each of these girls bring something really unique to the team that I think will help lift us up even higher,” said women’s head coach Stacey Balaam. “They’ve all got the grit and determination that we are looking for and it’s evident in the way that they each play and display themselves on the pitch.”

Coco Thistle, a native of Encinitas, California, joins Sporting JAX after a successful collegiate career with University of California, Berkeley where she started in 30 of 33 games, with injury preventing her from playing in the 2024 season. She tallied four goals and four assists in over 2,000 minutes played during the course of two seasons.

“It’s an incredible opportunity to join a really successful team,” said Thistle. “They’ve proven that they are an elite team, and I’m really excited to get the chance to be a part of a group that has had such success so early on.”

Midfielder Abby Boyan joins Sporting JAX following a season in Denmark with AaB Kvinde Elitefodbold, and a season with the Utah Royals in the NWSL. Her combined stats with both teams result in 14 starts in 14 games with two goals and an assist. Before her professional debut, Boyan played at the University of Georgia where she played and started in all 93 games in her five years, tallied 17 goals, 18 assists, and logged over 7,800 minutes.

“The skill level of this team is something to admire,” said Boyan. “It’s hard to find a team that can gel as quick as they have, and it’s going to be very fun to jump in and learn how we all work together as one unit.”

Presley Cason joins Sporting JAX from IMG Academy where she has spent the last two years developing her scoring ability and getting ready to join the big leagues. While at IMG, where she acted as a captain for the past two years, Cason tallied 62 goals and 39 assists before transferring to Sporting JAX where she has signed an academy contract.

“This is a really good opportunity to build my skills with a really good group,” said Cason. “I’m excited to continue developing alongside players and coaches that can teach me things that I can apply in the future.”

Sporting JAX women’s team continues to dominate the top of table in their inaugural season in the Gainbridge Super League. Fans can continue to purchase tickets for the historic first season at www.sportingjax.com.

For the latest Sporting JAX news, matchday updates and behind-the-scenes access, follow @Sporting_JAX across all social media platforms.