Tampa Bay has rightfully earned the moniker “Champa Bay” for its impressive collection of Stanley Cup trophies and Super Bowl rings. The city boasts award-winning professional sports teams, accompanied by passionate fans, ranging from the NHL to the NFL. However, up until now, the city of champions has been lacking a major segment of the professional sports world: a women’s team.
Despite the rapid growth of women’s sports, the only teams on the professional level in the city have been exclusively men’s. The introduction of the USL Super League, a Division 1 professional women’s soccer association, presented an opportune moment for Tampa Bay to step up to the plate – or in this case, onto the field. But the most surprising thing of all is that it was three men who emerged as the leading advocates for this historical movement and came together to co-own the Tampa Bay Sun Football Club.
Co-Owner Pioneers
Ybor real estate mogul Darryl Shaw, Bern’s Steak House owner David Laxer, and former BluePearl Specialty CIO Jeff Fox, all lifelong soccer enthusiasts, recognized the potential impact of the first women’s professional sports team to Tampa Bay – including the opportunity to inspire young girls with role models and opportunities in soccer and beyond.
“That opportunity to work together, to dream about something, to go out and practice and play hard—developing camaraderie and collaboration with a team—those are all good things,” Shaw says.
What’s in a Name?
Since its inception, the Tampa Bay Sun Football Club has enjoyed active community involvement, extending to the selection of its name and logo. By listening to residents’ stories, a common theme emerged: sunshine, which became a foundational pillar. Even the logo design drew inspiration from local architecture, echoing the lines and arches seen on landmarks like the Columbia and the Tampa Theatre.
Leading the Way
Christina Unkel, a former NCAA soccer standout at Palm Beach Atlantic University and FIFA referee with 15 years of experience, serves as President of the Tampa Bay Sun Football Club. With a focus on fan engagement, ticket sales and advocating for women in sports, she aims to create a lasting impact both on and off the field. Eager for community involvement, she invites everyone to participate in upcoming engagement events, from player signings to opening-day celebrations.
Sideline Strategist
With a 17-year tenure coaching USF’s women’s soccer program, earning her six American Athletic Conference titles, Denise Schilte-Brown will lead the Tampa Bay Sun Football Club. Her journey from player to pioneering coach illustrates her dedication to women’s soccer. Accepting the head coach role reflects her commitment to advancing women’s sports, intending to motivate young girls and make a community impact. With passion and leadership, she’s shaping the future of women’s soccer, leaving a lasting legacy on and off the field.
Stadium Spotlight
The Sun’s temporary stadium was strategically chosen in downtown Tampa Bay to provide easy access for patrons—whether by pirate water taxi or by stroll along the Riverwalk—and a vibrant pre- and post-game atmosphere. Over $6 million is being invested in permanent upgrades to the riverfront stadium at Blake High School, ensuring a memorable experience for fans while benefiting the community year-round. While the team’s permanent home has yet to be determined, Darryl Shaw has his eyes set on Ybor City.
Game Changer
Claire Lessinger, VP of Events for the Tampa Bay Sports Commission and President of WISE (Women in Sports and Events) Tampa Bay, underscores the commission’s role in attracting notable athletic and entertainment events to the area. The debut of the Tampa Bay Sun Football Club heralds more than just athletic excellence; it promises economic growth, community engagement and empowerment, reinforcing Tampa Bay’s position as a sports powerhouse.
Cementing a Legacy
The Tampa Bay Rowdies, established in 1975, was the area’s first professional sports franchise. Now, nearly 50 years later, Tampa Bay eagerly embraces its inaugural women’s professional sports team, coincidentally in the sport of soccer. As women’s sports surge in popularity, Tampa Bay is seizing this momentum with the Sun leading the charge. The team signifies the dawn of potential growth in professional women’s sports across the region.
Forward Focus
As its logo suggests, the future of the Tampa Bay Sun shines brightly, with long-term aspirations for a permanent stadium on the horizon. In the immediate future, fans can anticipate exciting events such as mascot and uniform reveals, community initiatives, season schedule releases, youth soccer clinics and unique events commemorating the Sun’s inaugural kick-off, all marking this historical milestone.
Sunchaser Club
By placing a $24 deposit towards a season pass, fans can become part of the Sunchaser Club, offering exclusive updates on the team, access to special fan events, and priority seat selection for the inaugural season. To learn more about becoming a Sunchaser or to purchase gear and more, visit TampaBaySunFC.com.
More women in sports? Check out the Leading Women in the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Or if you’d like to advertise with us, click here.
Hayli Zuccola – Photography by Gabriel Burgos
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