After months of anticipation and a democratic display of local passion, Denver`s newest NWSL expansion franchise has officially been christened Denver Summit FC. This unveiling marks a significant milestone for the city`s burgeoning sports landscape and the National Women`s Soccer League, as the Mile High City prepares to welcome elite women`s professional soccer in 2026.
A Name Forged by Community
In a move that underscores the club`s commitment to its roots, the name “Denver Summit FC” was not dictated from a boardroom, but rather emerged from the collective voice of the community. A robust “Name The Club” online voting campaign garnered over 15,000 votes and suggestions, demonstrating an impressive level of engagement from Colorado residents eager to embrace their new team. From a curated list of six Denver-centric options, “Denver Summit FC” resonated most deeply, capturing the spirit of aspiration inherent to a city nestled at the foot of the Rocky Mountains.
This democratic naming process sets a promising precedent, signaling that this isn`t just another franchise parachuting in, but a club intrinsically linked to the people it represents, built on local pride rather than corporate branding whims.
The Visual Identity: Green, White, and the Spirit of Colorado
Beyond the name, Denver Summit FC also revealed its distinctive branding, colors, and crest, meticulously crafted by renowned soccer graphic designer Matthew Wolff. The chosen palette—hues of green, white, red, and sandstone—is far from arbitrary. It`s a deliberate visual homage to Colorado`s diverse landscape: the lush forests, the snow-capped peaks, the distinctive red rocks, and the sun-baked plains.
The crest itself, with its implicit mountain motif, perfectly encapsulates the “Summit” ethos. As Denver Summit FC President Jen Millet succinctly put it, “Our crest, colors, and brand are representative of Denver and all of Colorado. It embraces our aspirational goals and pioneering spirit to build the best soccer club in the world.” Indeed, the imagery evokes not just geographical elevation, but also the pursuit of excellence—a fitting double entendre for a team aiming to conquer the NWSL landscape.
Interestingly, the club even collaborated with a local ultimate frisbee team, Colorado Summitt, on the naming process, a rare and commendable gesture of inter-sport camaraderie that will see the frisbee team rebrand in kind. It`s a small detail that speaks volumes about a collaborative, community-first approach.
Ambition on and Off the Pitch: A Vision for the Future
The ambition of Denver Summit FC extends far beyond a compelling name and attractive branding. Controlling Owner Rob Cohen articulated a clear vision: to establish the club firmly within Denver`s rich sporting heritage, leveraging the city`s unique geographical advantage—its elevation—as a symbol of its drive for success. “Much like the picturesque Rocky Mountains,” Cohen stated, “our charge is to stand apart while always reaching for new heights.” This isn`t just poetic license; it’s a mission statement for a club determined to carve out a distinct identity and achieve consistent success.
Underpinning this ambition is a significant investment in infrastructure. The franchise has not only broken ground on a state-of-the-art performance center but has also committed to building a dedicated, purpose-built NWSL stadium. The proposed 14,500-seat facility at Sante Fe Yards, slated to open in Spring 2028, promises to be a landmark achievement: the first sports and entertainment district in Colorado designed explicitly for professional women`s sports. This monumental commitment signals a long-term belief in the growth and potential of women`s soccer, not just as a sport, but as a cultural cornerstone.
The Manning Effect: Star Power and Strategic Vision
Adding another layer of intrigue and credibility to the Denver Summit FC project is the involvement of former NFL quarterback Peyton Manning as a minority investor. Manning, a sports icon synonymous with excellence and success in Colorado, brings not only star power but also shrewd business acumen and a deep understanding of what it takes to build a winning franchise. His involvement is a testament to the league`s burgeoning appeal and the serious investment being poured into this expansion. It`s a clear signal that this isn`t just a passion project, but a meticulously planned enterprise with serious aspirations.
The Ascent Begins in 2026
As Denver Summit FC gears up for its inaugural NWSL season in 2026, alongside fellow expansion side Boston Legacy FC, the foundation is being laid for a club that aims to be more than just a team. It`s poised to be a symbol of community pride, athletic excellence, and a pioneering spirit that mirrors the very mountains from which it draws its name. The journey to the summit officially begins, and the soccer world will be watching to see how high Denver Summit FC can truly ascend.
Adrian Whitmore