Hartford Athletic, Connecticut's new pro soccer team, has teamed up with Trinity Health of New England as one of its founding partners and unveiled their new jerseys Wednesday.
Trinity Health of New England, which includes Saint Francis Hospital, will be the team’s title partner and official healthcare provider.
“Over the past 120 years Saint Francis Hospital, a member of Trinity Health Of New England, has been an anchor institution in our community, and with this organization on board as our lead partner, we are excited to come together to make our community the best place to live, work, and play,” Hartford Athletic Chairman and CEO Bruce Mandell wrote in a press release.
The organizations will work together on and off the field, collaborating on community initiatives as well as outreach and educational events.
“Trinity Health Of New England is proud to partner with Hartford Athletic to bring soccer, the world’s most popular sport, to our local communities,” said Dr. John Rodis, president of Saint Francis Hospital. “This partnership is an exciting opportunity to be part of a momentous time in our capital city, one we believe will unite the individuals of the communities we serve in a healthy way. We are honored our team of talented physicians, especially those who are part of the Connecticut Sports Medicine Institute at Saint Francis, will be able to provide optimal care to this elite group of athletes and their passionate fans.”
Hartford Athletic’s inaugural season will start March 9, with the home opener slated for May 4, though Dillon Stadium is still under construction.
"Now I see the turf going in, I see the stadium going up and it brings a whole sense of pride and excitement I think it's great for the community, goes well beyond Trinity Health of New England really, just great for Hartford and really great for Connecticut," Rodis said.
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If the stadium isn't ready by the homeowner, the backup plan is to play a maximum of four games at Rentschler Field.
The Thomas Hooker Brewery is hosting a watch party for the first match on March 9 at their location at 140 Huyshope Ave. in Hartford.
