FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 9, 2023
PAWTUCKET, RI – Rhode Island FC, the Ocean State’s new professional men’s soccer team, announced its newest addition to the squad today, a harbor seal mascot named Chip. In 2016, the Rhode Island General Assembly passed legislation establishing the harbor seal as the Official State Marine Mammal.
“Having a top-notch fan experience is a key priority for all of us at Rhode Island FC. Chip was created with our fans’ input and is an exciting and fun addition to our ever-growing Rhode Island FC team,” said Brett Luy, President of Rhode Island FC. “Chip provides us with an even more direct connection to the bay and the ocean. We look forward to seeing Chip cheer for our club in the stands with our fans starting in March.”
Rhode Island FC Season Ticket Memberships are available for purchase here. All packages include tickets to the 17 Home Matches at Beirne Stadium at Bryant University, in addition to other Season Ticket Member perks.
Chip was designed with the Ocean State in mind. His 13 whiskers, like the stars on the Rhode Island state flag, represent the state’s history as the 13th state to sign the constitution. The club’s branding is also included in the mascot design. Chip’s spots are shaped like the Club’s official crest and his nose is an anchor.
“As a Club for all Rhode Island, we wanted to make sure that our mascot reflected both the state and our fans,” said Sabine Feldmann, Chief Marketing Officer of Rhode Island FC. “Chip will play a key part in creating a fantastic game-day experience for Rhode Island FC fans of all ages to enjoy.”
Chip will make his first public appearances this Saturday and Sunday at the Rhode Island Interscholastic League High School Soccer Championships, held at Rhode Island College.
Rhode Island FC will make its USL Championship debut in early March 2024 and will play its home matches during its inaugural season at Beirne Stadium at Bryant University while the state-of-the-art soccer stadium at Tidewater Landing is completed. Chip will be at all home games for the club’s inaugural season.
About Rhode Island FC
Rhode Island FC, a club for all Rhode Island, is independently owned and operated and is the only homegrown men’s professional team in the state. It is led by co-founders Brett Johnson and former MLS and USMNT player Michael Parkhurst, a Rhode Island native. The club will begin play in March 2024 in its temporary venue, Beirne Stadium on the campus of Bryant University, while its permanent home stadium is completed for the 2025 season. The Stadium at Tidewater Landing in downtown Pawtucket will be a state-of-the-art stadium with a 10,000+ capacity. More information at www.rhodeislandfc.com.