April 29, 2024 – National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL)
Bay FC News Release
San Francisco – Bay FC , the new women’s professional soccer franchise representing the Bay Area in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), will begin its inaugural season of heritage nights with AAHNPI Heritage Night this Wednesday, May 1 as the team takes on Portland Thorns FC at 7 p.m. at PayPal Park in San Jose.
AANHPI Night will provide the opportunity for Bay FC to spotlight the diverse cultures that help to make up the Bay Area, allow fans to try local Asian-American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander-inspired food and drink, and watch traditional performances from Bay Area performers.
“Bay FC was born out of the diverse cultures that make up the Bay Area which is something we are extremely proud of,” said Bay FC CEO Brady Stewart. “Celebrating the Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander players on our team, businesses that serve our fans, and community groups that unite our nine counties is an exciting way to honor all backgrounds in the Bay Area.”
Additional events for AANHPI Heritage Night include:
– Enjoy Pre-Match Performances at FanFest: Those who arrive early can enjoy performances by local Asian-American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander performers at the FanFest Stage.
– Pump up the Players with Spirit Station Signs: Fans can make their own posters with “Go Bay FC” and “Get Loud” in Japanese, Tagalong and Mandarin languages pre-match at the FanFest to help cheer on Bay FC as they play.
– Dig Into AANHPI-Owned Food Trucks: BBQ Kalbi, Just Mix Eat, 3 Brothers Kitchen, Thai Thai, I Love Cheesesteak, and MC Sushi will be served on-site, which are operated by AANHPI owners.
– National Anthem Played by Local Electric Violinist: San Francisco-based Asian-American electric violinist Rose Crelli will be playing the national anthem.
– Welcome Players onto the Pitch with Special Performance: Local performers will be welcoming players as they take the pitch.
– Enjoy a Polynesian Musical Performance at Halftime: Lôkahi Polynesian Dance Group will bring the spirit of aloha and appreciation for Polynesian culture to fans in attendance during halftime.
– Honor Influential AANHPI Individuals of the Bay Area: Throughout the match, Bay FC will feature videoboard graphics highlighting influential individuals who identify as AANHPI with Bay Area ties across sports, business, media, and more.
– Megan Reyes Takes Over Bay FC’s Socials: Fans who are unable to attend the match…