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Click here for photos from the press conference. 

Successful Launch of New Home for FC Tampa Bay

Less than 24 hours after announcing Ricky Hill as head coach, FC Tampa Bay made another exciting announcement as the 2011 season nears.  With a large group of dignitaries in attendance and a full house of media, FC Tampa Bay President and Owner Andrew Nestor introduced Al Lang Stadium as the new home for the team for the 2011 and 2012 seasons, as well as the partnership with the City of St. Petersburg and the St. Petersburg Baseball Commission. 

“The partnership with the city and the Baseball Commission really means a lot to me because I am very impressed with what has been done to create a true downtown environment here,” said Nestor. “Fans can come and park their cars and walk around to world class museums, restaurants, bars and the beautiful waterfront.”

Along with Nestor, St. Petersburg Mayor Bill Foster spoke about the newly-established relationship and the expansion of FC Tampa Bay to the St. Petersburg area.  

"We are so internationally driven these days that we are bringing the greatest sport in the world right here to Al Lang Field," said Foster. "We have one of the greatest opportunities to grow and expand with FC Tampa Bay."

State Representative Jeff Brandes, Director of Sports Commission Kevin Smith and Senior Administrator of the City Economic Development Rick Mussett looked on as reporters asked questions about the upcoming season, the conversion of the baseball field to a soccer pitch and the relationship of the team at Al Lang. 

“As a primary tenant we’re going to offer our fans a lot more to the fan experience,” said Nestor. “There will be better sight lines for the games and lower parking prices and concessions prices, as well as the unique experience St. Pete has to offer.” 

FC Tampa Bay will begin its preseason at the end of February and will play several exhibitions around the Bay area.  The 2011 season kicks off at Al Lang Stadium on Saturday, April 9th against future MLS team Montreal Impact. 

Season ticket packages are now on sale and individual game tickets will go on sale in March. To purchase season tickets, call (813) 287-1539 or emailtickets@fctampabay.com.