Strikers Announce Move to Central Broward Stadium

Beginning in August 2016, the Fort Lauderdale Strikers will play all NASL home games at Central Broward Stadium in Lauderhill, Fla. The club has undertaken the move in order to enhance the fan experience and game day amenities.

Fort Lauderdale will open at Central Broward Stadium on August 20 against Ottawa Fury FC. 

“The move to Central Broward Stadium allows us to focus on our fans and improving the experience of attending a Strikers match – a critical pillar of the club’s long-term success,” Strikers Managing Director Luis Cuccatti said. “It was important for the club to initially prioritize our coaching and playing resources this season, and now that has allowed for us to shift our focus toward enhancing everything surrounding our fan experience. We look forward to a mutually beneficial partnership between the Strikers and Broward County, and the future successes of our new home.”

Central Broward Stadium is conveniently located at the junction of State Road 7 and Sunrise Boulevard in Lauderhill. The facility, which will also serve as the Strikers training center, features four full-size soccer fields, in addition to the multi-use 5,000-covered-seat stadium that hosts FC Barcelona Soccer School, Caribbean carnivals, and international cricket matches, among other events.

The venue has been used by Major League Soccer (MLS) for its annual combine for several years. The facility has also played host to multiple preseason friendlies between MLS teams.

“We’re happy that the Fort Lauderdale Strikers have decided to relocate to Central Broward Stadium and keep professional soccer in Broward County,” Park Manager Duncan Finch said. “The County made a crucial additional investment to the multi-use stadium by relocating two light posts behind the covered-seating area, which brings the soccer field closer to the fans. This improvement convinced the Strikers to make the move to Central Broward Stadium, and to work with the County toward a long-term agreement.”

The primary building features modern amenities and game-day accommodations for the team, fans, and media, including VIP hospitality and a press box.

Central Broward Regional Park & Stadium will house offices for the club’s technical staff. The complex will also accommodate the club’s development programs, including Strikers U-23 and youth development partner Fort Lauderdale FC, as well as the planned cutting-edge performance lab, announced back in January.

Lockhart Stadium, the current home of the Strikers, will continue to operate under the Strikers even after the move to Central Broward Stadium in August. Lockhart will be utilized by the club for additional business opportunities including hosting international friendly matches and tournaments.

“The first Strikers game on Saturday, August 20 at Central Broward Stadium is sure to draw soccer fans from around the tri-county area and fill the stadium. It’s a win-win for both parties,” Finch said.

“While the history of Lockhart remains compelling and the pitch itself is a great venue, the recent changes to CBR accompanied by the adjoining practice fields and the ability to house the front offices makes it an excellent fit for the future of the Fort Lauderdale Strikers,” said Strikers advisor Sean C. Guerin, who was instrumental in the move to Central Broward Stadium. “I already know the players and the staff love it, and I am convinced the fans will embrace it as well.”