In a unanimous vote Thursday, the East Ridge City Council approved an agreement for Chattanooga Red Wolves SC’s plans to build a professional training center on the grounds of Camp Jordan. The professional team will use the facilities, and the East Ridge community and soccer programs will have access to the new fields.
“Camp Jordan is already a well-known destination throughout the region for soccer players, families and spectators to enjoy the beautiful game,” said Bob Martino, the team’s owner. “We appreciate this opportunity to strengthen soccer roots in the community and establish this important partnership with the city of East Ridge. This facility gives our fans another opportunity to get to know the team and enjoy the only professional soccer experience in Chattanooga.”
The construction plans for the training center include a turf field, home and visitor locker rooms, concessions and ticket box office.
“This partnership with the city of East Ridge is a game changer for us and our mission to build the professional soccer experience in the region,” said Sean McDaniel, president and general manager of the club. “We thank the city council, interim City Manager Kenny Custer and Mayor Brian Williams for being part of the Red Wolves mission to bring professional soccer to this community.”
The dedicated facility will generate additional economic growth in and around Camp Jordan.
“The Red Wolves passion for our community and professional soccer contributes greatly to our master plan for Camp Jordan and the surrounding area,” said interim City Manager Kenny Custer. “A regional training center will bring additional restaurants, hotels and attractions to the area. It not only puts us on the map for regional sporting events but it also represents a major investment in our community. Youth are an important focus for East Ridge, and having access to these professional athletes will not only develop better youth players but it will also develop them as people.”
In addition, the center will create employment opportunities in East Ridge. The team plans to hire operations and maintenance employees in the coming months.
The facilities will be used by the Red Wolves, Dalton Red Wolves and Lady Red Wolves and will have additional uses such as hosting events.
“From the beginning, I’ve been dedicated to making a significant investment in this community and the region,” said Martino. “This facility is not only an important stepping stone in the creation of our professional team, but it’s also an opportunity for children and adults alike to enjoy the sport in a state-of-the-art environment. We look forward to breaking ground on this first-rate complex in the coming months.”
The team has not yet announced the location of its future soccer-specific stadium, where they will host home games. They are reviewing available properties that offer the most unique professional soccer experience for fans.
For more information on Chattanooga Red Wolves SC, visit www.chattredwolves.com or follow the team on social media: @ChattRedWolves on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.
