Gotham FC and NYCFC have a partnership brewing that could be amazing

If one missed the morning announcement yesterday, then one missed NJ/NY Gotham FC and New York City FC announcing some big news. The two teams announced that the Bats will play at the Pigeons' future home, Etihad Park, beginning in 2028. As such, women's soccer is officially coming to the Big Apple.

This could be the beginning of a beautiful partnership between the two teams. Many Gotham fans will likely support the move, while others who prefer New Jersey will be upset. But this partnership can make the difference in the NJ/NY side's future.

Moreover, while the Major League Soccer side will not own the NWSL team, it is clear that the team is not going to treat them like a mere tenant. The ladies will have many aspects of Etihad Park that belong to them and show the individualism of Gotham.

Gotham FC and NYCFC can have a good partnership

But again, the stadium could be just the beginning of the partnership. One thing that has been noted a few times is the lack of an academy for Gotham FC. What NYCFC has is an academy for girls. The Bats recently announced a new addition to their development program, the Pro Player Pathway. But the full academy is the missing piece for the NJ/NY team to have one of the top development programs in the country.

Perhaps the two teams can combine forces, where the girls' academy for NYCFC is connected to Gotham FC. Understandably, the Boys in Blue might not want to give up part of their academy for economic reasons. However, maybe an agreement can be reached. Again, this is not about either team walking over one another, but rather, working together.

In addition, Gotham and NYCFC could do events together throughout the tri-state area. Both teams have fans in the local three states, and maybe combining forces can enable them to expand their outreach. And, there might be an opportunity for anyone who is not a fan of either team to be introduced to the other, leading to the growth of supporters.

Combining marketing power is also an argument for possible growth. By promoting one another, it gets the other team out to the other set of fans.

Meanwhile, with both teams at Etihad Park, and with NYCFC and the rest of MLS changing their schedule to align with other leagues, especially the top European ones, both teams will play part of their season in Queens when the other is in the middle of the offseason. This can provide opportunities for the players to support one another by attending matches. Plus, again, in regard to growth, scheduling meet-and-greets with those not playing could encourage others to attend.

Then, during the period when both teams are playing, maybe there can be a single-ticketed doubleheader for both games. This is something that the teams can do, and fans of both would probably love this. Of course, there is the logistical question of whether they can do this and whether either league would allow such an event.

As time goes on, there will likely be other ways to grow the partnership between NYCFC and Gotham FC. For now, the first step will be the Bats' move to Queens in 2028.

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