The arrivals of not only new clubs, but new venues and ownership groups across the league have changed the landscape, and even seen some look to emulate the transformation that Phoenix pulled off four years ago. The evolution of Rising FC has also been part of the broader evolution in the Championship. “What Didier did for our organization is second-to-none and we’ll forever be grateful for that, and he’s still a huge help to us all the time on a lot of decisions that we’re making.” “He sat in the board room every week with a pen and paper and took notes and then provided his insights,” said Dulle. And while Drogba might not be doing his thing on the field anymore, he remains active within the club and its decision-making processes. Easily the biggest signing in the Championship’s history, Drogba’s arrival made a massive impact in Rising FC’s inaugural season at the box office and put the club on the map globally. Of course, it helps if your brand is also associated with one of the legendary names in the game in Didier Drogba. But beyond the investment that brought success on the field, the club’s new brand and home venue also sparked a fanbase that made Casino Arizona Field not just a place that would challenge any visiting side, but a raucous celebration every game night.

In 2021, Head Coach Rick Schantz’s side will again be considered one of the major contenders for the league title.

Now, it has claimed three pieces of silverware and holds the top spot in numerous categories in the Championship’s Single-Season Record Book. Before, the club had yet to reach the USL Championship Playoffs. It’s inarguable Rising FC has succeeded in its aim. Since Phoenix was relaunched ahead of the 2017 season following its purchase by a large ownership group led by Governor Berke Bakay, each year the aim has been for the club to be bigger and better than it was the season that preceded it. If there has been a mindset at Rising FC over the four seasons since it took on its current form, it has been that of constant evolution and progression.

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