Full Breakdown
Cleveland Unveils New Professional Soccer Team: Forest City Cleveland
3/10/2026, 9:10:56 PM
Introduction of Forest City Cleveland
Cleveland's new professional men's soccer team, named Forest City Cleveland, was officially unveiled by the Cleveland Soccer Group. This branding initiative is a significant step in the organization's mission to unify and energize the soccer community in Northeast Ohio. The name and identity were developed through extensive community engagement, involving over 3,000 participants, including players, families, and fans. Gina Prodan Kelly, Chief Marketing Officer of Cleveland Soccer Group, emphasized the collaborative nature of the branding process, stating, “We believed from the beginning that this club should be built with Cleveland, not simply introduced to Cleveland.”
Symbolism and Design Elements
The identity of Forest City Cleveland is deeply rooted in the region's history and culture. Central to the team's crest is the "Die Hard Tree," a historic American sycamore located in Cuyahoga Valley National Park. This tree, which predates Cleveland's founding in 1796, symbolizes resilience and endurance, having survived significant damage yet continuing to thrive. The crest also incorporates elements reflecting Cleveland's architectural heritage and natural landscape, including the outline of Ohio and twelve leaves representing the players and community.
The team's color palette, featuring Forest City Green and Lake Erie Midnight, draws inspiration from the region's natural beauty and urban environment. These colors aim to evoke a sense of place and identity, aligning with the club's mission to represent Cleveland both on and off the pitch.
Future Plans and Community Engagement
Forest City Cleveland is set to begin play in MLS NEXT Pro in 2027. The organization plans to host various community events leading up to the season, including watch parties for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. A new website has been launched to facilitate fan engagement, allowing supporters to explore the brand story and purchase merchandise.
Additionally, Cleveland Soccer Group is working on establishing a downtown stadium near Progressive Field, which will serve as a hub for soccer activities and connect with the Cleveland Metroparks' trail system. Prodan Kelly noted the importance of this infrastructure in enhancing the community's access to soccer.
Criticism and Community Perspectives
While the branding and identity have been largely well-received, some critics question the relevance of the "Forest City" moniker in light of Cleveland's declining tree canopy, which has dropped to approximately 18% as of 2019. Sara Tillie, head of the Cleveland Tree Coalition, acknowledged the challenges but expressed optimism about the city's efforts to restore its green spaces. “I really think we are trying to hold onto that title,” she stated, reflecting a desire to reconnect with Cleveland's historical identity.
Verbatim Quotes
- “More than 3,000 people helped shape what Forest City Cleveland would become. It reflects the city’s past, but even more importantly it represents the future we’re building together.” — Gina Prodan Kelly, Chief Marketing Officer, Cleveland Soccer Group
- “that it's not about just bouncing back, but finding new ways to grow.” — Gina Prodan Kelly, Chief Marketing Officer, Cleveland Soccer Group
- “There’s a long history of people trying and failing to bring professional soccer teams here.” — Noah Toumert, Executive Director, Cleveland Pro Soccer Community Foundation
Forest City Cleveland aims to tap into the strong local support for soccer, with thousands of pledged season ticket holders already expressing interest. As the team prepares for its inaugural season, it seeks to foster a renewed sense of community pride and engagement through the sport.