https://www.mlssoccer.com/post/2018...jay-heaps-lead-birminghams-usl-expansion-club Jay Heaps named named Pres/GM
http://www.fieldofschemes.com/2018/02/07/13437/the-mayor-of-birmingham-is-out-of-his-goddamn-mind/ Birmingham City Council voted unanimously (with one abstention and one absence) yesterday on a “resolution of intent” to spend $90 million over 30 years toward a new football stadium. That’s along with $11.7 million a year from the state and county, all for a stadium that will be used mostly by the University of Alabama-Birmingham football team and the USL franchise.
Some of that $ is also going towards an update on the civic center facilities that haven't change much sine the 70's.
LOL. I guess it depends on how you look at "professional". Technically we've had several football teams. Stallions (USFL), Thunderbolts (XFL), Barracudas (CFL), Fire (WLAF), Outlawz (Arena), several others that never even panned out. Also had the Birmingham Bulls (World Hockey Association). There was also a pro women's basketball team at one time. All of these would be considered "pro" and not semi-pro I believe.
We have a home! To learn more about our partnership with UAB and our new home click the link below. http://bit.ly/2nX3vJE
As a native from Birmingham and a founding member of the Legion FC, I just wanted to give a few updates: (hopefully the hyperlinks will work) Jay Heaps on the air with the main sports talk show in Birmingham on June 27th (Best of Show Segment towards the end). Came across very excited. Talked a lot about his time at Duke and what he has learned from Coach K about Leadership. Also of note mentioned talks of possibly building their own stadium as there has not been any conversations with the PTB at the new stadium going up in downtown Bham. (I think it would be too big of a venue personally as it will seat in the 40-50k range) Also heard the coach and a first signing should be taking place soon. Would not be surprised for it to be a fairly big name. Doug Hicks, formerly of the Chicago Fire was also named Executive VP. He will be in charge of the business operations. He also spent some time with DC United. Additional Owners Announced: If you are from Birmingham, these names should pop out at you. Harbert Corporation is a Birmingham staple and one of the largest construction companies in the world. There is some major money behind Legion FC and it has been stated that the MLS is the goal. If that is not reached, I don't think it will be because a lack of ownership commitment. One last piece of news: Post Consumer Brands is the first corporate sponsor. I would imagine the shirt sponsor will involve one of their products. There was a pretty large contingent of people watching the World Cup Final around some places in Birmingham and it seemed that Legion did a good job of capitalizing on that. I have seen quite a few Legion stickers on cars around town. I expect a full blitz to start soon as the Hammers just finished up their season (best they have had).
Thanks for putting the info out there! Nice avi btw . I have a source in the organization and they confirmed the new stadium would be too big. I must admit, I was skeptical having lived in Bham for a while. But it seems they have some good support and the right people in charge to this point. Keep the info coming!
That B with the hammer through it on the bottom left would make a pretty sweet hat. I was by the office right after they got in there and got to meet Jay and Morgan. Both are extremely personable people. I'm not one to take part in the supporters sections anymore. (wife enjoys games with me but I would embarrass her too much doing that), but really look forward to getting the season up and running.
Legion FC first ever player signing in Chandler Hoffman from the Monarchs! I’m excited to see the hometown kid come home to start something special here.
Red Diamond announced as official jersey sponsor of Legion FC. "The Birmingham-based premier coffee and tea provider has signed a three-year agreement and will feature prominently on Legion FC kits, at Legion FC events and on public facing platforms." “From the beginning, we set our sights on a partnership for our jersey with a company that has local ties, a national footprint and a passion for the game, said Legion FC president and general manager Jay Heaps. “In Red Diamond, we have found that partner and agreed on a deal that ranks among the best in the United Soccer League.”
Tom Soehn rumored to head up the Legion FC squad. I did get an email inviting founding members to join the Legion at a special event introducing the new coach next Thursday, August 23rd. The email did not announce the name of the coach though.