OKC for Soccer needs your help choosing team name
OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) — Have you ever wanted to help name a professional sports team? Well, now you can! OKC for Soccer just released a new survey that allows you to submit ideas for a new name and colors for the soccer team.
OKC for Soccer said fans can see the team play in 2027, but there's a lot of work to be done before then.
"This is the year of Oklahoma City soccer," said Court Jeske, the President of OKC for Soccer.
Jeske said the journey has been going on for awhile.
"Starting last summer, a new ownership group took over the rights for the Energy FC, which is a professional soccer team that had been in Oklahoma City since 2013," said Jeske.
Jeske said the new MAPS 4 multipurpose stadium will house the soccer team in the heart of downtown.
"Echo Investment Capital donated 13 acres of land which the city council unanimously accepted in November," said Jeske.
Right now, the plans are to break ground this summer. To get ready, Jeske said they've been talking to fans of all ages to get ideas for what's to come and prepare for the new season.
"We then took that, had lots of conversations and listened to the community and decided to have this chance for the community to name the team," said Jeske.
"I think it's really exciting. I feel like we could use some soccer in our life," said Frances Brock, an OKC resident.
News 4 asked Oklahomans young and old what they would suggest and some got straight to the point.
"Oklahoma soccer. Oklahoma, new soccer team," said Michaiah and Ananias Miller.
Others had some creativity.
"Monster trucks...queen princess," said Uriah Miller and Mia Herrera.
"I'm going to go with the bison. Just think it's Oklahoma," said Gerry Melton, OKC resident.
"I think I would go with the OKC Thundercats. And I would have to say the OKC Strikers," said Frances Brock and Shyla Hayes, OKC residents.
"The kookaburras. The white tigers," said Malachi Miller and Elias Herrera.
There are thousands of choices, but only one will make the goal. Jeske said a new team will be announced in April.
"We're going to do quick work, but thorough work to make sure we get a brand that reflects Oklahoma city," said Jeske.
OKC for Soccer also said they're partnering with Matthew Wolff to help design the crest and secure a name. Wolff is known for his work with the LAFC, the Minnesota Twins, and other teams nationwide.
If you would like to submit an idea, fill out this survey. The last day to share an idea is January 31.