NJ/NY Gotham FC History – Team Origin and Achievements

The NJ/NY Gotham FC has become one of the most exciting clubs in the NWSL. Over the years, talented NJ/NY Gotham FC players and the vision of the Gotham FC owner have built a powerful legacy in women’s soccer. From humble beginnings to championship contention, Gotham FC’s journey reflects passion, teamwork, and growth.

NJ/NY Gotham FC

Established
2006

City
New York

League History
2013 – Present / National Women's Soccer League

Team History
2025 – Present / Gotham FC
2021 - 2025 / NJ/NY Gotham FC
2013 - 2020 / Sky Blue FC

Nickname
Gotham FCThe nickname “Gotham FC” draws inspiration from the famous nickname for New York City, “Gotham,” which dates back to the early 19th century. Popularized by writer Washington Irving, “Gotham” became a poetic and iconic moniker for NYC, symbolizing the city's vibrant, gritty, and resilient character.

NJ/NY Gotham FC Origin

By adopting the name NJ/NY Gotham FC, the club embraces its connection to the broader New York metropolitan area, including New Jersey and New York City. The nickname reflects the team’s ambition to represent the region’s strength, diversity, and dynamic energy, while forging a unique identity in the National Women’s Soccer League.

Championship
NWSL Championships 1
2023

Stadium
2025 - Present / Sports Illustrated Stadium
2019 - 2024 / Red Bull Arena
2013 - 2019 / Yurcak Field

Owner
2023 - Present / Phil and Tammy Murphy, Carolyn Tisch Blodgett, Steven H. Temares, Kristin Bernert, Eli Manning, Sue Bird, Karen Bryant, Bobby Cho, Ed Nalbandian
2021 - 2023 / Y. Michele Kang, Joe Barone, Phil Murphy, Tammy Murphy
2013 - 2021 / Phil Murphy, Tammy Murphy, Steven H. Temares, Francesco Prandoni, and Thomas Hofstetter.

Who is the greatest NJ/NY Gotham FC?

To qualify as the greatest player for this team, the player must have played one season for this team. If not, we will remove the player.
* verifies that player has played for this team as an added player by a fan.

NJ/NY Gotham FC History

NJ/NY Gotham FC has a rich and evolving history in women’s professional soccer. Originally founded as Sky Blue FC in 2007, the club became one of the founding members of the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) when play began in 2013. Before joining the NWSL, the team competed in the Women’s Professional Soccer (WPS) league, where it earned a championship title in 2009 — a major milestone that set the foundation for future success.

Over the years, NJ/NY Gotham FC players have been at the heart of the club’s growth and identity. Legendary figures like Carli Lloyd, Christie Rampone, and Sam Kerr helped elevate the team’s reputation both nationally and globally. Their performances brought visibility to the franchise and inspired a new generation of fans across New Jersey and New York. The organization also played a vital role in developing homegrown talent and promoting women’s soccer at the grassroots level.

In 2021, the team underwent a major transformation, rebranding as NJ/NY Gotham FC to represent both states more inclusively and to signal a new era of professionalism and ambition. The sleek new identity, backed by the leadership of the Gotham FC owner, emphasized the club’s modern approach to marketing, player welfare, and community involvement. The rebrand also reflected Gotham’s commitment to diversity, empowerment, and progress within the NWSL.

Under the Gotham FC owner’s guidance, the club invested heavily in player facilities, staff development, and fan engagement. This investment has strengthened the relationship between players and supporters, with Gotham FC becoming one of the most recognizable and respected teams in the league.

Gotham FC Achievements

2009 WPS Championship Victory

Before joining the NWSL, NJ/NY Gotham FC, then known as Sky Blue FC, claimed the 2009 WPS Championship. This victory marked a turning point for the franchise and established its winning culture early on.

NWSL Playoff Appearances

In recent years, NJ/NY Gotham FC players have led the team back into playoff contention. With improved performance and stronger management, the club continues to chase its goal of securing an NWSL championship.

Rebrand and Modern Success

The 2021 rebrand under the Gotham FC owner not only refreshed the team’s identity but also marked a new period of competitive stability and growth. The club’s evolution from Sky Blue FC to NJ/NY Gotham FC symbolizes its lasting influence on women’s soccer and its bright future in the sport.

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Retired Number

*Blue is this team’s history