OKC Energy FC News Release -- www.energyfc.com
Thursday, November 14, 2013
OKLAHOMA CITY – Prodigal LLC today announced the name of their USL PRO franchise will be OKC Energy FC.
“The name Energy has multiple meanings and applications in Oklahoma City,” said Prodigal CEO Bob Funk Jr. “There is an obvious tie to the oil, natural gas and renewable resource sector in our city, but it also speaks to the renaissance underway in Oklahoma City.
“Our city has a strong energy, our citizens have a positive energy, our sport has a passionate energy and our team will have a winning energy. Energy is the natural choice for the Oklahoma City USL PRO franchise and for our future, this name will transfer into the higher league goal…Major League Soccer.”
Foundation for the team colors include the official state color of green, paired with blue to represent the horizon line of the plains and the bright future envisioned as a team and a community. The club’s mark is inspired by the flag of the great state of Oklahoma. Within the logo is an exploding star, symbolizing the spark that initiates energy. The star also forms an abstract soccer ball with upward moving lines to create a sense of upward movement. The home and away kits include the green and blue from the logo as well as the vertical lines, meaning the state flag will always be represented when OKC Energy FC is on the pitch.
Prodigal LLC also announced the OKC Energy FC will play their home regular season and playoff games at Pribil Stadium on the campus of Bishop McGuinness Catholic High School in the central part of Oklahoma City near the business district at I-44 and Western. Beginning immediately, the field will undergo a complete renovation to meet the standards for USL PRO games. The natural grass field will be positive for all activities at Bishop McGuinness Catholic High School.
“We are thrilled with the opportunity to play at Pribil Stadium on the campus of Bishop McGuinness Catholic High School, said Prodigal owner Bob Funk Jr. “Its located in the heart of the city, has a variety of pre and post-game dining options in the Western Avenue corridor and provides sports fans with an opportunity to see professional soccer in an intimate environment.
“Thank you to the staff, alumni and boosters from McGuinness High School for providing our team with the opportunity to play soccer in their stadium. The tradition of athletic success is strong at McGuinness and we look forward to adding to that tradition.”
“Bishop McGuinness Catholic High School is excited about the partnership with Prodigal to bring professional soccer to Oklahoma City,” said Bishop McGuinness Athletic Director Gary Savely. “Our city has a dynamic history of hosting and supporting many athletic teams and events at all levels. We believe this relationship will help the city expand its sports reputation but also benefit the student/athletes at Bishop McGuinness with improvements to our stadium and field. The years of athletic management experience showed through in the professionalism and thoroughness of the Prodigal staff.”
Soccer fans also have the opportunity to place a deposit for ticket packages by calling the OKC Energy FC office at 405-235-KICK (5425).
USL PRO is the strongest, best operated and most experienced North American men’s professional soccer league outside of Major League Soccer (MLS). Focused on franchise stability and longevity, USL PRO features 14 teams for the 2014 season, including expansion teams in Oklahoma City and Sacramento.
In 2013 USL PRO began a groundbreaking, multi-year partnership with MLS that will enhance the development of professional players in North America, strengthen the competition in both leagues, and establish a solid foundation for future collaboration. In addition to league play, USL PRO teams will compete in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup as well as various domestic and international exhibitions. USL PRO is the longest-standing pro league affiliate member of US Soccer.
The league not only serves as a springboard to the MLS for players, but also for franchises. Four of the last five clubs to enter MLS have moved up from the USL’s top professional division. Among the most successful clubs, the Vancouver Whitecaps, Seattle Sounders, Portland Timbers and Montreal Impact all operated franchises in the USL’s top professional division before making the transition to MLS.
Soccer fans also have the opportunity to place a deposit for ticket packages by calling the OKC Energy FC office at 405-235-KICK (5425).
Prodigal LLC is a full service event management company based in Oklahoma City. Prodigal operates the Oklahoma City Barons professional hockey team, co-promotes Professional Bull Riders (PBR) events in Oklahoma City and Tulsa, operates the Ram National Circuit Finals Rodeo (RNCFR), serves as the co-organizer for the March of Dimes Sports Headliner Banquet and produces the Bricktown 4th Fest and is sales and marketing partner with All College and World Cup of Softball.