TAMPA – The leaders of Suncoast Credit Union and the Tampa Bay Sun Football Club announced a partnership Aug. 27, they say, will bolster women’s professional sports in the Tampa Bay area.
Elements of the partnership include naming rights for Suncoast Credit Union Field, charitable giving to support students at Blake High School and exclusive ticket benefits for Suncoast members.
The announcement came during a soccer takeover of Suncoast Credit Union headquarters in Tampa, where head coach Denise Schilte-Brown and Sun players celebrated the new partnership. Team flags and gear transformed the lobby into a showcase of the club’s championship spirit.
The surprise finale was a $10,000 donation to the Blake High School Boosters. That donation will be the first of many, with Suncoast committing an additional $200 for each shot on goal made by the Sun this season at Suncoast Credit Union Field.
“At Suncoast Credit Union, we believe each of us can make a positive difference,” said Kevin Johnson, president and CEO of Suncoast Credit Union. “Through this sponsorship, we’re excited to do just that. We’re able to build a stronger community by lifting up women’s sports, supporting fantastic community assets in the Sun and the Blake High School Boosters, and enhancing the quality of life for everyone in Tampa Bay.”
The Sun will invest the sponsorship funds into facilities, salaries and other efforts that ensure the team and the Tampa Bay region remain a destination for female athletes, coaches and sports professionals.
“The Sun are proud to be at the leading edge of women’s pro sports in Tampa Bay and around the world,” said Christina Unkel, president and general manager of the Sun. “This backing from Suncoast Credit Union empowers us to continue to build that momentum and expand our impact as we create new career opportunities for women in sports and inspire the next generation of young women to pursue their dreams.”
On the web: tampabaysunfc.com
Venue naming rights
During Sun matches and events, the team’s temporary home in Downtown Tampa on the campus of Blake High School will be known as Suncoast Credit Union Field.
The official facility name honoring “Big Jim” Williams will remain intact. Suncoast will invest in a new, permanent space at the venue to highlight Williams’ legacy later this year.
The exact length and investment are not being disclosed at this time. It applies to the current Sun home venue, not the team’s planned permanent home.
