In the world of professional sports, a name is more than just a label; it`s an identity, a rallying cry, and a promise. For Denver`s newest National Women`s Soccer League (NWSL) expansion team, that identity has now been crystalized: welcome to the Denver Summit FC. Set to debut in the 2026 season, this franchise isn`t just joining a league; it`s aiming to redefine what it means to build a club from the ground up, with community at its core and the Rocky Mountains as its constant inspiration.
A Name Forged by the Community
The journey to `Denver Summit FC` was not dictated from a boardroom but emerged from the collective voice of the very community it seeks to represent. In a refreshing move, the franchise engaged its future fanbase through a `Name The Club` vote, presenting six thoughtfully curated options—all deeply rooted in Denver`s unique local fabric. Over 15,000 votes and suggestions poured in, a testament to the fervent enthusiasm for professional women`s soccer in Colorado. In the end, `Denver Summit FC` ascended to the top, securing the most first-place votes and embodying the city`s geographical and aspirational spirit.
“It was vital for us to name our club in collaboration with our community. 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.” — Jen Millet, Denver Summit FC President.
The Summit Identity: More Than Just a Peak
The name `Summit` for a Denver-based team might seem rather on the nose, given the city`s elevation. Yet, as the unveiled crest and color palette demonstrate, it’s a deliberate choice packed with deeper meaning. Designed by acclaimed soccer graphic designer Matthew Wolff, the branding marries hues of green, white, red, and sandstone—colors that evoke the majestic Colorado landscape. Green for the forests, white for the snow-capped peaks, red and sandstone for the rugged earth and the distinctive Flatirons.
The `Summit` isn`t merely a geographical marker; it`s a philosophy. It speaks to reaching for the highest levels of achievement, both on the pitch and within the community. Rob Cohen, Denver Summit FC`s Controlling Owner, articulated this vision clearly:
“Coloradans are passionate about the outdoors, so it was always our vision that the crest should depict our natural surroundings. Our elevation offers us a distinct home field advantage, and our goal is to build a club that is always pursuing excellence on and off the field. Much like the picturesque Rocky Mountains, our charge is to stand apart while always reaching for new heights.”
Interestingly, the new team`s name required a cooperative effort with another local sports entity: the Colorado Summitt, a professional ultimate frisbee franchise. In a display of amicable sportsmanship, the frisbee team will undergo its own rebranding ahead of 2026, also via a fan vote, allowing the soccer club to truly own its identity without stepping on any existing sporting toes. A small, polite ripple effect in the grand scheme of Denver`s expanding sports landscape.
Building a Foundation: Beyond the Badge
A strong brand is crucial, but a truly successful club requires robust infrastructure. Denver Summit FC is not merely banking on a name; it`s investing heavily in its future. The franchise recently broke ground on a state-of-the-art performance center, a clear indicator of its commitment to player development and professional excellence. This facility isn`t just a training ground; it`s a statement about the caliber of athletes the club aims to attract and nurture.
Further solidifying its long-term vision, Denver Summit FC has committed to constructing a purpose-built NWSL stadium. This ambitious project, a 14,500-seat facility slated for completion in Spring 2028 at Sante Fe Yards, marks a significant milestone. It will be the first sports and entertainment district in Colorado specifically designed for professional women`s sports—a powerful testament to the growing stature and commercial viability of the NWSL.
The ownership group also brings considerable weight, notably with the recent announcement of former NFL quarterback Payton Manning joining as a minority investor. Manning`s involvement not only lends star power but also strategic acumen, adding another layer of credibility and ambition to the burgeoning franchise.
The Ascent Begins
As Denver Summit FC prepares for its inaugural season in 2026 alongside Boston Legacy FC, the anticipation is palpable. The unveiling of its name and branding is far more than a PR event; it`s the tangible manifestation of a vision that combines community spirit, local pride, and an unwavering commitment to excellence in women`s professional soccer. With a fan-chosen identity, state-of-the-art facilities on the horizon, and an ownership group geared for success, Denver Summit FC isn`t just climbing to the summit—it`s establishing a new base camp for achievement, promising a thrilling new chapter for Colorado sports and the NWSL.
