The Birmingham Legion Football Club (FC) announced that it is partnering with UAB to house its USL professional soccer team at BBVA Field, which is the present location of the UAB Blazers soccer team. The University of Alabama System Board of Trustees made the decision final last Friday.

“We are thankful for the University of Alabama System and their partnership in this decision and hope the result of it will only enhance Birmingham’s soccer community moving forward,” said Jay Heaps, Legion FC president and general manager.

Birmingham Legion FC ownership group and leadership with Mayor Randall Woodfin. New Legion President/GM Jay Heaps is on Woodfin’s left. Photo by Hamid Al-Diagan

According to Heaps the soccer specific venue will have a grass surface and a capacity of about 6,000.

“UAB is proud to partner with Legion FC and the USL in support of this important addition to Birmingham’s growing sports and entertainment landscape,” said UAB President Ray L. Watts. “We look forward to welcoming Blazer and Legion soccer fans to BBVA Compass Field where they will enjoy the facility expansion and enhancements now approved by the University of Alabama System Board of Trustees.”

“The upgrades to BBVA Compass Field will make it one of the largest and finest on-campus soccer venues in the country,” added UAB Director of Athletics, Mark Ingram.

Legion FC will play 17 regular season home matches (subject to change) and potentially host more in Open Cup competition. The inaugural USL season will begin in March of 2019.

Fans can put down deposits for season tickets now via the club’s website to secure their chance to witness a new era in Birmingham’s sporting history. More information about final ticket prices will be available later this year.

For more information on Birmingham Legion FC or for ticket information – please visit bhmlegion.com.