Bay FC is making a statement this Saturday at Oracle Park, transforming the Giants' home into a women's soccer arena for their match against the Washington Spirit. This isn't just a game; it's a declaration that San Francisco deserves a place in the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL), and Bay FC belongs in San Francisco.
Since their launch last year, Bay FC has primarily resided in the South Bay, training at San Jose State and playing at PayPal Park. While they've branded themselves as a team of nine counties, asking fans from Marin or Oakland to travel to San Jose has been a challenge. This weekend offers a chance to bridge that gap.
CEO Brady Stewart is confident: "This match on Saturday is going to make history. We will be the most attended NWSL game and professional women’s league match attendance." With over 38,000 tickets sold by midweek, Oracle Park serves as both a thank-you to loyal fans and an experiment to gauge the city's embrace of the team. "We wanted to show our fans in San Francisco and the North Bay and the East Bay a little love by playing closer to home."
The event is designed to capture the San Francisco spirit, featuring DJs, Bay Area rap artists like Mistah F.A.B. and P-Lo, and a special musical guest. However, the timing presents a challenge. Bay FC enters the game tied for 11th in the NWSL, winless in their last five matches, and without their leading scorer, Penelope Hocking, due to injury. Their opponent, the Washington Spirit, is a formidable team, currently sitting in third place.
Can Bay FC Overcome the Odds?
Despite the hurdles, this match is about more than just winning or losing. It's about establishing Bay FC as a force in San Francisco and showcasing the growing popularity of women's soccer. The atmosphere, the location, and the potential record-breaking attendance all point to a significant moment for the team and the league. Whether they can conquer the Washington Spirit remains to be seen, but Bay FC is certainly making their play for San Francisco.
What to Expect at Oracle Park
- A transformed Oracle Park, designed for women's soccer.
- Live music from Bay Area artists.
- A high-stakes match against a top-ranked opponent.
- A celebration of women's soccer in San Francisco.