Strikers Announce Move to Central Broward Stadium
July 19, 2016 - North American Soccer League (NASL)
Fort Lauderdale Strikers News Release
FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla.- Beginning in August 2016, the Fort Lauderdale Strikers will play all North American Soccer League (NASL) home matches at Central Broward Stadium in Lauderhill, Fla. The club has undertaken the move in order to enhance the fan experience and gameday amenities.
Fort Lauderdale will open at Central Broward Stadium on August 20 against Ottawa Fury FC. Tickets to the match are now available for purchase on Strikers.com.
"The move to Central Broward Stadium allows us to focus on our fans and improving the experience of attending a Strikers match -- a critical pillar of the club's long-term success," said Strikers Managing Director Luis Cuccatti. "It was important for the club to initially prioritize our coaching and playing resources this season, and now that has allowed for us to shift our focus toward enhancing everything surrounding our fan experience. We look forward to a mutually beneficial partnership between the Strikers and Broward County, and the future successes of our new home."
Central Broward Stadium is conveniently located at the junction of State Road 7 and Sunrise Boulevard in Lauderhill. The facility, which will also serve as the Strikers training center, features four full-size soccer fields, in addition to the multi-use 5,000-covered-seat stadium that hosts FC Barcelona Soccer School, Caribbean carnivals, and international cricket matches, among other events.
The venue has been used by Major League Soccer (MLS) for its annual combine for several years. The facility has also played host to multiple preseason friendlies between MLS teams.
"We're happy that the Fort Lauderdale Strikers have decided to relocate to Central Broward Stadium and keep professional soccer in Broward County," said Park Manager Duncan Finch. "The County made a crucial additional investment to the multi-use stadium by relocating two light posts behind the covered-seating area, which brings the soccer field closer to the fans. This improvement convinced the Strikers to make the move to Central Broward Stadium, and to work with the County toward a long-term agreement."
The primary building features modern amenities and gameday accommodations for the team, fans and media, including VIP hospitality and a press box.
Central Broward Regional Park & Stadium will house offices for the club's technical staff. The complex will also accommodate the club's development programs, including Strikers U-23 and youth development partner Fort Lauderdale FC, as well as the planned cutting-edge performance lab, announced back in January.
Lockhart Stadium, the current home of the Strikers, will continue to operate under the Strikers even after the move to Central Broward Stadium in August. Lockhart will be utilized by the club for additional business opportunities including hosting international friendly matches and tournaments.
"The first Strikers game on Saturday, August 20 at Central Broward Stadium is sure to draw soccer fans from around the tri-county area and fill the stadium. It's a win-win for both parties," said Finch.
"While the history of Lockhart remains compelling and the pitch itself is a great venue, the recent changes to CBR accompanied by the adjoining practice fields and the ability to house the front offices makes it an excellent fit for the future of the Fort Lauderdale Strikers," said Strikers advisor Sean C. Guerin, who was instrumental in the move to Central Broward Stadium. "I already know the players and the staff love it, and I am convinced the fans will embrace it as well."
About the Fort Lauderdale Strikers The Fort Lauderdale Strikers are part of the 13-team North American Soccer League (NASL). Fort Lauderdale has made the postseason four times in five NASL Modern Era seasons. The club's history dates back to 1977 and the original NASL. The Strikers play at historic Lockhart Stadium, which was built in 1959 has hosted professional soccer for more than 35 years. In August 2016, the Strikers will move to Central Broward Regional Park & Stadium. For more information, visit Strikers.com or follow @FTLStrikers on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram .
North American Soccer League Stories from July 19, 2016
- Fort Lauderdale Strikers Visit Chicago Fire with Semifinal Cup - NASL
- Rowdies Reinforce Attack with Signing of Colombian - Tampa Bay Rowdies
- Free Kick Specialist Ryan Williams Joins Fury FC - Ottawa Fury FC
- Strikers Announce Move to Central Broward Stadium - Fort Lauderdale Strikers
- Cosmos Announce Partnership with Rally - New York Cosmos
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