SARASOTA, Fla. - Sarasota Metropolis FC has unveiled its inaugural branding ahead of the 2019 USL League Two. The official announcement was made at the Big Brothers Big Sisters Live Love Laugh Extravaganza, which featured over 100 of the club's supporters in attendance.

Sarasota conducted extensive research before selecting the Sarasota-Bradenton Area as their new home, and it didn’t take long to recognize the strong soccer community from youth clubs to supporter groups like American Outlaws Sarasota.

“Once we discovered the soccer community in the area, we decided to include Metropolis in our name because our commitment to embrace soccer fans in Sarasota and Manatee Counties,” says Victor Young, Club President. A metropolis was considered the mother city of a region in ancient Greece, so we thought it was fitting. Our blue dragon mascot was incorporated from legends regarding the fire breathing protectors of the metropolis. We want to have fun while enjoying amazing soccer matches.

Sarasota has already named Italian soccer legend Massimo Marazzina its first head coach in team history, which is among the many exciting developments for the club. The former Serie A striker featured for a number of teams in Italy's first division, including Bologna and Chievo Verona.

“I’m delighted with how Sarasota Metropolis FC brings together passion for the community as well sporting ambition," USL League Two Vice President Joel Nash said. "We know that this team will give incredible opportunities for the local and regional player, since there is a real talent pool in the area.

"Whether it’s the local soccer supporter, or someone brand new to the game, this team will be a rallying cry for everyone to enjoy the games while supporting their community.”

The club will play its 2019 season at Robert Taylor Sports Complex and IMG Academy in order to serve fans in both counties. The season opener is on Wednesday, May 8th against Weston FC at 7:00 pm. The next player tryout will occur on March 16th at the Premier Sports Complex. Season ticket information will be made public on the team website in the near future.