Local Credit Union Becomes Official Financial Partner for 2025/26 Gainbridge Super League Season
FORT LAUDERDALE, FL – Fort Lauderdale United FC has secured a significant community partnership by naming Tropical Financial Credit Union as the club’s official credit union for the 2025/26 Gainbridge Super League season. The collaboration reinforces the club’s commitment to community engagement and financial wellness for both players and supporters.
Partnership Details and Community Impact
Strategic Alliance with Local Institution
Tropical Financial Credit Union, a not-for-profit financial institution based in Broward County, brings deep community roots and a commitment to financial empowerment that aligns perfectly with Fort Lauderdale United’s mission to create positive change beyond the soccer field.
“We’re proud to welcome Tropical Financial Credit Union as a valued partner of Fort Lauderdale United FC,” said Tommy Smith, Chairman and Founder of Fort Lauderdale United FC. “Their deep roots in the South Florida community and commitment to financial empowerment make them an ideal teammate as we continue to build a club that reflects and uplifts the people we serve.”
Comprehensive Partnership Benefits
The partnership extends far beyond traditional sponsorship, encompassing:
- Branding Integration: Prominent visibility throughout the Beyond Bancard Field
- Game-Day Activations: Joint community events and fan engagement initiatives
- Player Development: Customized financial education sessions for players and staff
- Financial Literacy Programs: Focus on long-term planning and wealth building beyond professional soccer careers
Executive Leadership Perspectives
Credit Union’s Community Vision
Rick Shaw, President and CEO of Tropical Financial Credit Union, emphasized the partnership’s community-focused approach: “At Tropical Financial, we’re always looking for meaningful ways to connect with and give back to our community. FTL UTD is not only a talented and inspiring team, but also a powerful platform for empowering women in sports and beyond.”
Women’s Soccer Empowerment
The partnership specifically highlights Fort Lauderdale United’s role in advancing women’s professional soccer while creating lasting community impact throughout South Florida.
Organizational Profiles
Fort Lauderdale United FC: Building Excellence
Fort Lauderdale United operates as a comprehensive soccer organization featuring:
- Women’s Division One: USL Super League professional team
- Men’s Professional: USL League One team (launching 2026)
- Pre-Professional Programs: USL League Two and USL W League teams
- Youth Development: Complete pathway from youth to professional soccer
The club’s mission centers on “relentlessly striving for greatness at every level” while embodying Fort Lauderdale’s enduring values and creating opportunities for aspiring athletes.
Tropical Financial Credit Union: Community-Centered Banking
Established in 1935 by Southern Bell employees, Tropical Financial has grown to serve over 66,000 members across nine Florida counties, including:
- Miami-Dade
- Broward
- Palm Beach
- Martin
- St. Lucie
- Lee
- Collier
- Hendry
- Sarasota
The credit union’s member-owned, not-for-profit structure aligns with community-focused values that complement Fort Lauderdale United’s mission.
Strategic Market Position
Professional Sports Landscape
This partnership marks Tropical Financial’s second major professional sports alliance in Broward County, complementing their existing relationship with the Florida Panthers. The dual partnerships position the credit union as a significant supporter of South Florida professional athletics.
Women’s Soccer Growth
The collaboration comes at a pivotal time for women’s professional soccer, with the Gainbridge Super League representing the highest level of women’s soccer in the United States. Fort Lauderdale United’s position as the first women’s professional soccer team in Fort Lauderdale makes this partnership particularly significant for the sport’s regional development.
Community Engagement Strategy
Financial Education Focus
The partnership’s emphasis on financial literacy education for players addresses a critical need in professional sports, where career longevity and post-career planning are essential considerations. The customized sessions will cover:
- Long-term financial planning
- Wealth-building strategies
- Career transition preparation
- Financial literacy fundamentals
Broader Community Impact
Both organizations share a commitment to community empowerment that extends beyond their primary services, creating opportunities for meaningful engagement with South Florida residents.
Looking Forward
Season Preparation
As Fort Lauderdale United prepares for its 2025/26 Gainbridge Super League campaign, the Tropical Financial partnership provides both financial support and community credibility that enhances the club’s regional presence.
Expansion Opportunities
The successful partnership model could serve as a template for similar community-focused alliances as Fort Lauderdale United continues expanding its professional soccer operations, including the upcoming men’s USL League One team in 2026.
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