USA Soccer names Tampa Bay Sun FC partner for girls league West Division

United Soccer Association has named Tampa Bay Sun FC the official partner of its Florida Girls League West Division, with both groups set to expand programming, coaching support and community access for girls’ soccer across the Tampa Bay region. The partnership also launches a new outreach banner, The Green, Gold & Sun Initiatives, with more details expected in the coming weeks.

Why it matters: - The partnership gives girls in USA Soccer’s West Division a direct link to a professional women’s club in their own market. - USA Soccer and Tampa Bay Sun FC say the collaboration is meant to widen pathways for players, coaches and clubs across the region. - The announcement also folds existing support programs into a new outreach platform that could expand access to equipment, education and competition.

What happened: - United Soccer Association named Tampa Bay Sun FC the official partner of USA Soccer’s Florida Girls League West Division. - The announcement was made Sept. 2, 2026, in Tampa, Florida. - USA Soccer is rebranding its community and outreach work under The Green, Gold & Sun Initiatives. - The partnership is centered on growing girls’ soccer throughout the region.

The details: - USA Soccer and Tampa Bay Sun FC will develop opportunities and experiences for players, coaches and clubs under the new partnership. - The Green, Gold & Sun Initiatives will serve as the base for future programs, events and community engagement. - USA Soccer’s existing support programs include the Coaching Education Grant, which helps cover accredited coaching courses. - The league’s Scholarship Program awards graduating seniors who have competed in USA Soccer. - The Young Referee Grant helps players age 13 and older pay for officiating certification. - Free College ID Camps give U15-U18 athletes a chance to present to college coaches. - The Cleats, Shinguards & Ball Program provides free equipment to families in need. - USA Soccer said the partnership will connect those resources with new girls-focused experiences. - West Division players and coaches will gain closer exposure to the professional women’s game in their local community.

Between the lines: - The move extends a model USA Soccer has already used with the Tampa Bay Rowdies, where players and coaches gained access to coaching education and ID camps. - The new partnership applies that approach specifically to the girls’ game. - Kai Velmer, USA Soccer’s executive director, framed the deal as part of a broader push to create a real pathway for players rather than short-term seasonal participation. - Tiffany Felts, Tampa Bay Sun FC’s director of marketing and communications, said the club wants to work with leagues, schools and community groups to expand opportunities for girls in Tampa Bay.

What's next: - USA Soccer said specific program, clinic and event details will be shared in the coming weeks as plans are finalized. - USA Soccer is seeking sponsors and community partners for The Green, Gold & Sun Initiatives. - Interested organizations can reach out at kai@usa-soccer.org. - Tampa Bay Sun FC’s website is tampabaysunfc.com.

The bottom line: - USA Soccer is turning a local club partnership into a broader girls’ soccer growth strategy, with Tampa Bay Sun FC as the first major anchor for the West Division.