Denver Summit FC prepares for inaugural NWSL season in 2026

In a significant development for women's sports in the United States, Denver was awarded its first-ever National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) franchise, the Denver Summit FC, in January 2024. This marks a historic moment, as the Summit will become the first women's professional sports team from a major national league situated in Denver. Following the announcement, a comprehensive fan engagement initiative began, where over 50,000 votes were gathered to help determine the team's name, colors, and crest. The winning name, Denver Summit FC, was unveiled alongside its visually striking crest reflecting Colorado's beautiful natural landscapes, featuring dark green mountains set against a reddish-orange and golden sunset. The design elements were chosen meticulously to embody the spirit of the local environment and community, establishing a sense of ownership and pride for the team among local fans. Kicking off its inaugural season in 2026, the Denver Summit FC aims to position itself as a premier women’s soccer organization. The team announced that important preparations are underway, including the hiring of key personnel. Jen Millet has been appointed as the team president, while Curt Johnson serves as the general manager. They will oversee all soccer operations, ensuring that the club begins with a strong foundation. As part of the expansion, the club will play temporarily for two seasons in a venue yet to be determined before moving to a newly constructed, purpose-built stadium designed to hold 14,500 spectators by 2028. This infrastructure signifies the commitment to developing a professional sports culture for women in Denver, emphasizing growth at both grassroots and professional levels. In conjunction with the establishment of the NWSL team, the Colorado Summit, an Ultimate Frisbee team, graciously decided to relinquish its name to facilitate the soccer team's branding efforts. The Ultimate Frisbee Association's co-owner expressed the initiative as a 'rare moment of sportsmanship' and emphasized the importance of growing Colorado’s sports community. The transition illustrates collaboration between different sports, aiming to show solidarity while enhancing the visibility of soccer in a city traditionally dominated by other sports. Both teams are expected to benefit mutually from the transition, sharing a fan base that aligns closely in their appreciation for competitive sports. The excitement and anticipation surrounding Denver Summit FC’s arrival to the NWSL depict a hopeful future for women’s sports in the region. As the club actively engages with the community, initiatives like ticket sales and community events will help solidify a loyal fanbase, while also providing a platform for women's soccer to thrive in a vibrant sports market. The committee's commitment to ensuring community involvement reflects a broader trend of increasing female athlete representation, as local and national support for women's sports continues to rise steadily.