FC Naples Gears Up for Star-Spangled Showdown Against Tampa Bay Rowdies on July 4

Independence Day celebrations in Southwest Florida are getting a high-energy upgrade as FC Naples prepares to host USL Championship powerhouse Tampa Bay Rowdies in the third round of the USL’s inaugural Jägermeister Cup. The match, scheduled for 7:30 p.m. on Friday, July 4, will be held at Paradise Coast Sports Complex, promising more than just thrilling soccer.

This holiday showdown marks a key fixture in the regional group stage of the newly minted mid-season cup competition and brings one of Florida’s most storied soccer clubs to face off with the region’s rising USL League One contender. Currently sitting in third place in the League One standings, FC Naples is looking to capitalize on home-field advantage in what’s set to be one of the most festive nights in club history.

But the night is about more than the game.

Gates open at 6:00 p.m., setting the stage for a full evening of celebration. Fans arriving early will be welcomed by the sound of local guitarist Mattie Jolly, who will perform pre-match and return for a post-game set. Family-friendly attractions include face painting, balloon artistry, and giveaways of glow sticks and handheld American flags—ensuring the crowd itself becomes part of the spectacle.

Concessions throughout the concourse and beer garden will feature classic barbecue dishes alongside Independence Day-themed food and drink specials. Adding to the excitement, the club is hosting a match-day raffle with patriotic prizes, including a USA-themed soccer ball and a limited-edition FC Naples Fourth-of-July shirt, both autographed by the full squad.

During halftime, fans can expect a show of red, white, and blue on the pitch as Andersen Corporation sponsors a Patriotic Race, with costumed contestants competing for a VIP experience at the club’s next home match. Meanwhile, the beer garden will come alive with yard games—including Giant Connect 4, Jenga, and Cornhole—as well as an interactive spin-the-wheel station offering giveaways and FC Naples merchandise.

The July 4 clash is part of the USL Jägermeister Cup, a new tournament introduced this year to boost mid-season engagement and highlight talent across the league’s landscape. Structured with six regional groups, the competition includes four group-stage matches per team—two home and two away—running through July. Following the group stage, a draw determines the single-elimination phase, culminating in the final the weekend of October 4.

For FC Naples, the opportunity to play host to a historic club like the Rowdies on America’s birthday is as symbolic as it is strategic. “We couldn’t imagine a better way to celebrate the Fourth than under the lights, surrounded by our community, taking on one of the best in the league,” said a club spokesperson. “We’re asking all fans to wear their brightest red, white, and blue and turn Paradise Coast Sports Complex into a sea of stars and stripes.”

About FC Naples

Founded as part of the United Soccer League’s expansion initiative, FC Naples is the first professional team based at Paradise Coast Sports Complex. The club aims to build a title-contending squad while delivering a top-tier fan experience rooted in the values and culture of Southwest Florida. Emblazoned with symbols representing Naples’ coastal legacy and resilient community, FC Naples is committed to becoming a source of pride for the region. Learn more at www.FCNaples.com.