Garland plans new soccer stadium to attract USL team and boost community engagement

In a recent government meeting held on January 28, 2025, officials in Garland, Texas, discussed the potential development of a new soccer stadium aimed at enhancing the city’s sports culture and community engagement. The meeting highlighted the growing popularity of soccer in the United States, particularly among younger demographics and the Hispanic community, which constitutes a significant portion of Garland's population.

Soccer is currently the fastest-growing sport in the U.S., with 73% of Hispanic individuals identifying as fans. This demographic insight positions Garland as a prime candidate for a professional soccer team, especially with upcoming major events like the Men's World Cup in 2026 and the Women's World Cup anticipated in 2031. The proposed stadium would serve both professional and youth soccer, with plans to host a United Soccer League (USL) team, which is in negotiations to establish a presence in Garland.

The envisioned stadium would accommodate approximately 7,000 spectators, making it smaller than other local venues like Toyota Stadium in Frisco, which has a capacity of 20,000. The facility is designed to be multifunctional, hosting not only soccer matches but also concerts and community events throughout the year. This approach aims to drive traffic to Garland and foster community pride.

Officials also discussed the importance of activating the stadium for various events to maximize its use. While the stadium will be soccer-specific, there are plans for additional fields that could accommodate other sports, including football, through partnerships with local schools and organizations.

The meeting underscored the historical significance of soccer in Garland, with the local soccer association being one of the oldest in Texas. Community leaders expressed optimism that existing soccer tournaments, particularly those organized by the Vietnamese community, could transition to the new facility, further enhancing its role as a hub for local sports.

While public transportation options to the stadium are currently limited, discussions about potential game-day express routes are ongoing. The overall sentiment from the meeting was one of enthusiasm for the project, with officials recognizing the potential economic and cultural benefits that a professional soccer team and stadium could bring to Garland. As plans progress, the city aims to solidify its position as a key player in the growing soccer landscape in the United States.