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Launching Rhode Island FC: A Journey of Vision, Resilience, and Community

Starting Rhode Island FC has been the most exciting and gratifying endeavor of my career. Having been involved with Phoenix Rising FC and Ipswich Town, I knew the road to building a new team would come with its share of hurdles. But I also believed that Rhode Island was an ideal place for professional soccer with a devoted sports culture and in the very desirable Northeast region. Turning that vision into a reality, however, has required perseverance, creative problem-solving, and collaboration at every step. From the start, I approached this project with the belief that sports as an asset class holds tremendous value, not just in terms of team ownership but in fostering economic growth and community development.

The Vision for Rhode Island FC

The idea to bring a professional soccer team to Rhode Island came from my belief in the state’s potential to support a thriving soccer culture. It’s densely populated and sports-minded, with a rich history of athletic pride. While the vision was clear, the journey of making Rhode Island FC a reality meant overcoming obstacles and navigating unknowns. The first key step was securing the financial backing to get the club off the ground. Convincing investors to believe in a new team in an unproven market wasn’t easy, but with patience and strong relationships, we were able to gain the necessary commitments.

Laying the Financial and Logistical Foundations

After establishing a financial foundation, this next phase encompassed undertaking logistical arrangements of everything-ranging from training facility arrangements to the recruitment of coaches and players. This was so designed, keeping in mind the long-term sustainability of the club, at every juncture. The development of a permanent stadium for Rhode Island FC came with its own set of challenges. A project of this scale requires coordinating with local governments, the community, and construction teams, but we’re making steady progress. The stadium will ultimately become the heart of Rhode Island FC, a gathering point for fans to come cheer and celebrate the team.

Building the Team and Culture

Bringing in the kind of talent that perfectly fits into the team is an important piece of the puzzle, but it’s also creating that perfect culture where both the players and the local communities will feel at home. We’ve worked hard to bring in players who not only have the skills to compete but also embody the resilient and community-oriented spirit of Rhode Island. It’s been exhilarating to see that team come together. It’s not just about being successful in the short term; it’s about creating something sustainable that allows us to grow along with the community. The players we are bringing in have the opportunity to have a direct impact on shaping the future of Rhode Island FC from day one.

Engaging the Community

Rhode Island FC has always been more than just soccer for me. From the beginning, we’ve prioritized community engagement, knowing that the team’s success is deeply tied to the people of Rhode Island. We set out to support collaborations with local businesses, youth soccer programs, and partnering with local organizations; their support allows people to embrace Rhode Island FC as a valuable part of the community. We’re here not just to compete on the field but to have a positive and lasting impact off it – socially and economically.

Tidewater Stadium: A Vision for the Future

The development of the Tidewater stadium for Rhode Island FC is one of the most important milestones in our journey. Despite facing some challenges along the way, we are hard at work to ensure that this stadium will form the backbone of the club’s future. A stadium is more than just a place to play – the place where fans can gather, contribute to the local economic growth and represent the roots of the club in Rhode Island. I truly believe that Tidewater Stadium will become one of the premier sports assets in New England. Designed as a versatile rectangular field, it’s perfect for soccer, American football, rugby, lacrosse, concerts, and more. Our goal is to make it the hub for sports and entertainment in Southern New England – not just Rhode Island, but the entire region. This will be a major focus for us moving forward, and I can’t wait for the day when we can finally call it home.

Looking to the Future

As I look ahead, I’m filled with optimism about the future of Rhode Island FC. We’ve laid a strong foundation, and with the continued support of the community, our team is positioned for success in the USL Championship. Rhode Island FC is about more than just soccer –

it’s about bringing people together and creating a legacy that will last for generations. While there have been hurdles along the way, each one has made us stronger and more determined. This is only the beginning of what we’re building here, and I’m excited to see how far this journey will take us.

About the Author

Brett M. Johnson is the founder and CEO of Benevolent Capital, founder and partner of Fortuitous Partners, and co-founder and chairman of Rhode Island FC. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Brown University and an MBA from Pepperdine University’s Presidential/Key Executive program, with additional leadership training from Harvard Business School’s President’s Leadership Program in 2014. Brett is an active member of the Young Presidents Organization.

*Disclaimer: The information provided is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial or investment advice. Always consult with a qualified financial advisor or wealth manager before making any investment decisions.