Sporting JAX has announced the return of men’s professional soccer to Jacksonville, with plans to join the USL Championship. Mark Warburton, Head of Soccer for Sporting JAX, commented on the development: “Competing in the USL Championship is a fantastic opportunity for our club,” said Warburton. “It’s a highly competitive league that’s gaining prominence each season, and we are dedicated to building a team that represents Jacksonville and competes at the highest level. After a global search, we will soon announce our men’s team head coach as a leader who shares our vision for excellence and community impact.”
The launch of the men’s professional team creates a complete pathway for boys and men in local soccer, from youth programs through to professional play. This structure reflects what was established earlier with Sporting JAX’s Division I women’s professional team, which began competing at Hodges Stadium in 2024.
Plans are also being developed for a new stadium and training facilities with capacity for 15,000 spectators. The venue will become home to both the men’s and women’s teams. Details about these facilities are expected in 2026.
In addition to its upcoming USL Championship side, Sporting JAX will operate two pre-professional teams: one in USL League Two (men) and another in the USL W League (women), both set to compete during summer months starting May 2026. The club also runs a youth academy serving more than 10,000 young players and families throughout Northeast Florida.
These developments underline Sporting JAX’s focus on creating opportunities within soccer at all levels locally.
Sporting Club Jacksonville was founded in 2020 by local owners aiming to strengthen Jacksonville’s presence in American soccer. The club adopted its current name after collaborating with members of the First Coast community in 2023. Its motto is “Lift Every Voice.” For more information about Sporting JAX or updates on their progress, visit www.sportingjax.com.
