The Mile-High City is preparing to ascend to new athletic heights, not just geographically, but on the professional soccer pitch. Denver, a city synonymous with majestic peaks and pioneering spirit, has officially welcomed its newest sporting entity: Denver Summit FC, the latest expansion side to join the burgeoning National Women`s Soccer League (NWSL). Set to kick off its inaugural season in 2026, alongside Boston Legacy FC, this announcement marks a significant milestone for women`s professional sports in the American West.
A Name Forged by Community
In a move that strongly underscores a commitment to grassroots involvement, the club`s identity wasn`t dictated from on high. Instead, over 15,000 voices participated in a `Name The Club` campaign. This democratic process culminated in the triumphant selection of `Denver Summit FC,` a name that resonates deeply with the city`s iconic landscape and its inhabitants` aspirational drive. One might observe that the fans have, quite literally, voted to `summit` the local sports scene, establishing a tangible connection between the team and its future supporters.
Embracing the Colorado Spirit: The New Visual Identity
With the name firmly established, the visual identity followed, meticulously crafted by renowned soccer graphic designer Matthew Wolff. The new crest and colors – a palette of verdant greens, crisp whites, fiery reds, and earthy sandstone – are more than mere aesthetic choices. They are a carefully curated reflection of Colorado`s rugged beauty, its clear skies, and its vibrant energy. This isn`t simply a logo; it`s a visual homage to the topographical and spiritual essence of the region, designed to encapsulate the team`s lofty ambitions.
Denver Summit FC President Jen Millet articulated the significance of this process: “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.” Similarly, Controlling Owner Rob Cohen underscored the regional connection, noting that Coloradans` passion for the outdoors informed the crest`s depiction of `natural surroundings.` He added, “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.” A testament to collaborative spirit, the NWSL side also worked with local ultimate frisbee franchise, Colorado Summit, on the naming process, with the latter set to rebrand through its own fan vote.
Laying Foundations for Future Peaks
Beyond branding, the club is actively laying concrete foundations for sustained success. A state-of-the-art performance center is already underway, a tangible commitment to player development, advanced training, and overall athletic excellence. More significantly, ambitious plans are firming up for a dedicated 14,500-seat NWSL stadium at Sante Fe Yards, projected to open its gates in Spring 2028. This isn`t merely a future venue; it is being designed as the first purpose-built sports and entertainment district in Colorado specifically for professional women`s sports – a clear signal that this venture is about cultivating an entire ecosystem, not just a single team. The strategic inclusion of minority investor and NFL legend Payton Manning further signals the serious intent behind this venture, adding a notable dimension of sports gravitas to the beautiful game.
A New Chapter for Colorado Sports
As Denver Summit FC prepares for its inaugural 2026 season, the stage is set for a new, exciting chapter in Colorado`s rich sporting history. With a name chosen directly by the people, a brand steeped in local identity, and a robust infrastructure plan designed for long-term growth, the club isn`t merely joining a league; it`s aiming to ascend to the pinnacle of women`s professional soccer, one carefully planned step at a time. The climb, it seems, has just begun.
Dominic Ashworth