The San Diego Fleet Football team was a key part of the Alliance of American Football’s 2019 season. Based in San Diego, California, the team quickly built a loyal fan base with its exciting gameplay and competitive spirit. Known for its strong roster and skilled coaching staff, the Fleet represented San Diego with pride and determination.
Established
2018
City
San Diego
League History
2019 / Alliance of American Football
Team History
2019 / San Diego Fleet
Nickname
Fleet – Sports fans in San Diego have a new team to cheer for, the San Diego Fleet of the Alliance of American Football (AAF). The franchise has been working hard to get its fan base excited, and one way they’ve managed this is by introducing an official nickname. But what exactly does “Fleet” stand for?
San Diego Fleet Origin
The name was chosen to tribute the region's long-standing connection with naval operations. It also reflects some critical values in sports: speed, agility, precision, and strength--all qualities necessary both on and off the field. Additionally, it pays homage to San Diego's solid military presence through its many Navy bases around town.
When announcing their choice of name back in October 2018 at Petco Park during an event attended by local dignitaries such as Mayor Kevin Faulconer and former NFL star LaDainian Tomlinson, co-founder Bill Polian said, “We chose Fleet because we wanted something that reflected our city’s proud maritime heritage while also embodying all aspects of football—speed…agility…precision…strength—qualities essential both on & off the field".
So there you have it! The next time you hear someone cheering "Go Fleet!" or see them wearing team colors with pride, remember why they chose this particular moniker - honoring our great city while embracing core principles associated with athletics everywhere!
Championship
AAF Championships 0
Stadium
2019 / SDCCU Stadium
Owner
2019 / Alliance of American Football
Coach
2019 / Mike Martz
*Blue is this team’s history
- 2018
- 2018
- 2019
- 2019
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Fleet Team Formation
The San Diego Fleet was a professional American football franchise based in San Diego, California, and one of the eight members of the Alliance of American Football (AAF). The league began to play in February 2019, with the team playing its home games at SDCCU Stadium. They were coached by former NFL head coach Mike Martz. The team was one ... -
San Diego Fleet’s name, logo, and colors revealed
On September 25, 2018: The team’s name, logo, and colors are revealed as the San Diego Fleet (battleship gray, yellow, and silver gray) -
Fleet plays its first game
On February 9, 2019: The Fleet plays its first game against the San Antonio Commanders at the Alamodome. -
AAF and Fleet file Chapter 7
On April 2, 2019, the Alliance for American Football suspended football operations, and on April 4 the league allowed players to leave their contracts to sign with NFL teams. The effect was to cancel the final two regular-season games and the scheduled post-season playoffs. The Fleet athletes and coaches, who were in Orlando getting ready for a game against the ...
San Diego Fleet History
The San Diego Fleet Football team was a professional American football franchise that competed in the Alliance of American Football (AAF). Founded in 2018, the team began its inaugural season in February 2019, bringing professional football back to San Diego after the Chargers’ departure. The Fleet played its home games at SDCCU Stadium, a venue that once again echoed with the cheers of passionate football fans.
The San Diego Fleet Football team name, logo, and colors were unveiled on October 11, 2018, symbolizing the city’s strong naval history and maritime pride. The Fleet’s identity resonated deeply with locals, connecting the team to San Diego’s military roots. Head coach Mike Martz, a former NFL head coach known for his offensive innovation with the St. Louis Rams, brought years of experience and an attacking philosophy that helped shape the Fleet’s exciting brand of football.
Under Martz’s leadership, the San Diego Fleet Football offense quickly gained attention for its high-powered plays and tactical efficiency. Quarterback Philip Nelson and running back Ja’Quan Gardner were among the team’s standout players, consistently delivering thrilling performances that energized fans each week. The defense, led by seasoned veterans, also played a key role in keeping the team competitive throughout the season.
Fleet Achievements
One of the most memorable moments in San Diego Fleet Football history came on March 17, 2019, when the team set a league record by scoring 48 points against the Birmingham Iron. That game marked a defining point for the young franchise, showcasing its explosive offensive potential and uniting fans in excitement across the city.
Record-Breaking Offensive Performance (2019)
The Fleet’s 48-point game against the Birmingham Iron remains one of the highest-scoring performances in AAF history. Led by Mike Martz’s dynamic offense, the team demonstrated remarkable balance between aerial attacks and ground dominance.
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