Grand Rapids, Michigan, is officially on the professional soccer map. In a highly anticipated announcement on September 27, 2025, the city’s new MLS NEXT Pro franchise unveiled its official name, crest, and colors, marking a significant milestone for both the local community and the broader Midwest soccer landscape. The team will be known as Athletic Club Grand Rapids—or AC Grand Rapids—and will don a striking palette of blue, gold, and black as it prepares for its inaugural season in 2027
A Name Rooted in Tradition and Ambition
The choice of “Athletic Club Grand Rapids” reflects both a nod to global soccer traditions and a commitment to building a club that embodies the city’s diverse and active spirit. The “Athletic Club” moniker is commonly used by storied teams around the world, signaling a focus on community, inclusivity, and multi-sport engagement. For Grand Rapids, it’s a statement of intent: to become a hub for soccer excellence and a source of local pride
The Crest: Symbolism and Local Identity
The newly revealed crest is rich with symbolism that ties the club to its home city:
- Colors: The primary colors are blue, gold, and black. Blue and gold are deeply associated with Grand Rapids and the state of Michigan, while black adds a modern, bold accent.
- Navy Stripe: A prominent navy stripe runs down the center of the crest, representing the Grand River, which is both a geographic and cultural heart of the city.
- Typeface and Banner: The typeface and banner elements are inspired by Grand Rapids’ industrial and civic heritage, giving the logo a sense of history and authenticity
This thoughtful design aims to create an instantly recognizable identity that resonates with both longtime residents and new fans.
Ownership and Vision: Building for the Future
AC Grand Rapids is backed by the Van Andel and DeVos families, prominent local business leaders with deep roots in West Michigan's sports community. Their involvement brings not only financial stability but also a clear vision for the club’s future. The ownership group has emphasized a commitment to:
- Community Engagement: Building a club that is accessible and meaningful to all residents of Grand Rapids.
- Youth Development: Creating pathways for local talent to rise through the ranks and represent their city at the professional level.
- Sustainable Growth: Ensuring the club’s long-term success both on and off the field, with a focus on inclusivity and local partnerships
The Road to 2027: Stadium, Debut, and Next Steps
While the team’s debut is set for the 2027 MLS NEXT Pro season, anticipation is already building. The club will play its home matches at the new Amway Stadium, an 8,500-seat, soccer-specific venue currently under construction in downtown Grand Rapids. The stadium is expected to become a centerpiece for sports and entertainment in the city, hosting not only soccer but also concerts, conventions, and community events.
Ticket sales and additional details about the inaugural season are expected to be announced in the coming months, following the typical rollout for new professional teams. Fans can look forward to community events, open houses, and opportunities to engage with the club as it builds toward its first kickoff.
Community and Regional Impact
In the broader context, Grand Rapids joins a growing list of Midwest cities investing in professional soccer, alongside Detroit, Cleveland, and others. The city’s large metropolitan area and vibrant sports culture position it as a key market for MLS NEXT Pro’s continued expansion.
Social Media and Community Buzz
The announcement has generated significant excitement on social media, with fans, local leaders, and soccer enthusiasts sharing their reactions and hopes for the club’s future. Hashtags like #ACGrandRapids and #GRMLSNextPro have trended locally, and the team’s official accounts have been active in engaging with supporters and answering questions.
Local news outlets have provided in-depth coverage, highlighting the economic and cultural benefits the team is expected to bring, as well as the pride many residents feel in seeing Grand Rapids represented on the national soccer stage.
What’s Next?
As AC Grand Rapids prepares for its debut, the focus will shift to building a competitive roster, hiring coaching staff, and deepening ties with the community. The club’s leadership has promised regular updates and opportunities for fans to get involved, ensuring that the journey to 2027 is as inclusive and exciting as possible. For now, the city celebrates a new chapter in its sports history—one that promises to unite, inspire, and elevate Grand Rapids for years to come.
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