North Carolina Courage Partners with First Horizon Bank for Stadium Naming Rights

In an exciting development for both sports fans and the local community, the North Carolina Courage has officially announced a multiyear partnership naming First Horizon Bank as the title sponsor for their home stadium. Starting in 2025, the 10,000-seat venue will be known as First Horizon Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park, reflecting the deepening relationship between the team and the financial institution.

The agreement marks a significant step in their collaboration, which began in 2024 when First Horizon Bank became the Courage's first official banking partner. With this new naming rights deal, the stadium will not only bear a prestigious name but also undergo enhancements that will further enrich the experience for players, fans, and staff alike. According to Francie Gottsegen, President of the Courage, this partnership embodies their shared mission to impact the community positively. She expressed excitement about expanding this relationship, emphasizing the importance of community engagement and enhancing the soccer experience.

As the stadium prepares to become First Horizon Stadium, First Horizon Bank's regional president, Laura Bunn, highlighted the significance of this partnership in supporting women's sports and fostering community ties. "This stadium represents more than just a name; it reflects our commitment to community, growth, and excellence," Bunn stated, vowing to create memorable experiences that resonate with local fans.

The Town of Cary is equally enthusiastic about this partnership, viewing it as a new chapter that reinforces the area's reputation as a premier destination for sports events. Mayor Harold Weinbrecht remarked on their collective commitment to providing quality facilities and unique experiences for residents and visitors.

In addition to the name change, the Courage and First Horizon Bank plan to celebrate the partnership with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, further enhancing the stadium’s design with additional branding and signage to be unveiled in early 2025. This move not only strengthens the identity of the stadium but also aligns with the vision of both partners to create an inviting space for all.

The Courage, competing in the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) since 2017, is already recognized as one of the most successful clubs in the league's history. With multiple league trophies under their belt, including three NWSL Shields and two NWSL Championships, the Courage have built a thriving fanbase and a legacy of excellence. Additionally, WakeMed Soccer Park, which also serves as the home for North Carolina FC, continues to play a crucial role as the central hub for soccer and sports events at various levels.

Fans looking forward to the 2025 season can expect a brand-new experience at First Horizon Stadium, where the North Carolina Courage will continue to strive for excellence on and off the field. For more information about upcoming events and schedules, supporters are encouraged to visit nccourage.com and northcarolinafc.com. The synergy of the Courage and First Horizon Bank heralds not only a strong partnership but also an optimistic future for women’s sports and community involvement in Cary, North Carolina.