In nine days the stands of Rio Tinto Stadium will be full of screaming fans, awaiting the starting whistle to a long-anticipated, historic game. On Saturday, April 14, Utah Royals FC will take on the Chicago Red Stars in one of the most heralded soccer stadiums in North America – adorned with the legacy of championship teams, epic come-back games, and numerous soccer legends.
With just nine days left before the inaugural home game, we are offering nine reasons why the RioT is the best place to watch an NWSL match this season.
1.The Fans
Nothing impacts a stadium atmosphere more than the fans who occupy it. Known for having some of the best fans in the MLS, Real Salt Lake supporters are sure to fill the seats for their newest women’s team. Even without a single home game to their name, URFC has already sold over 4,000 season tickets to die-hard soccer fans within the Utah community, and is expected to pack the house for next Saturday’s match. So, paint your tifos, wave your flags, and wear your jersey – now is the time to join the Royal family.
2.The Stars
The best female players in the world all come to play in the NWSL – making it one of the most talent-concentrated leagues in the world. This means that URFC fans can expect to see soccer stars every week from all over the world. The large stadium atmosphere is conducive to the plethora of international stars who walk between its walls, including Utah Royals FC members like USWNT co-captain Becky Sauerbrunn, or Canadian midfielder, Desiree “The Destroyer” Scott. In total, Salt Lake is now home to many international stars, like USWNT FW Amy Rodriguez, and former USWNT GK, Nicole Barnhart. Follow these women as they chase down the 2018 NWSL cup.
3.The Carnival
Arrive at the stadium ahead of time to take part of the family-friendly Carnival Real. Known for good music, carnival booths, and games, Carnival Real has something for everyone. Don’t just attend the match – make it a memorable experience by being a part of the Carnival Real festivities and celebration. Carnival gates will open two hours prior to kick.
4.The Views
Built for the beautiful game, Rio Tinto Stadium offers incredible match-day views and access from any location in the stadium. Whether you find yourself in the upper decks, or right behind coach Harvey’s bench, each seat in the stadium is built to give you the best vision of the game. But you’ll have to hurry quick – seating is limited, and tickets are selling fast!
5.The Location
Strategically placed, Rio Tinto Stadium can be found in the heart of Sandy, Utah, right off of Interstate 15, as well as State Street (US Highway 89). The stadium is just twenty minutes from the airport for those that are flying in for this historic match and surrounded by the restaurants and attractions of Salt Lake City. If public transportation is more your thing, UTA TRAX Blue line can take you directly to the Sandy Expo station on 9400 South, just one block from the stadium.
Make a vacation out of it: Stay a few days after the match to visit some of the iconic sights and scenes of beautiful Utah. Take advantage of the greatest snow on earth while it still lasts at one of Utah’s local ski resorts – or head down south for a warm hike among the national parks and red rock cliffs.
6.The History
Utah’s historic home opener will be one of many prolific moments in the club’s history. When you come to Rio Tinto, you are entering a stadium that has seen the highest level of soccer in the world. Since the stadium opened its doors in 2009, it has become a popular place for United States national team games, for both the men and women. The first match held by the U.S. at the stadium took place in 2009, against El Salvador, in a fourth-round qualifier for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, where the U.S. came off with a 2-1 victory. That game has since been the stepping stone for numerous athletic events, hosting the 2009 MLS All-Star Game, the 2011 CONCACAF Champions League Finals, the 2013 CONCACAF Gold Cup, and the final stages of the 2015 CONCACAF Men’s Olympic Qualifying Championship – and many more.
The RioT has also been the home for many USWNT games as well, the first being against Mexico in 2010, where the U.S. won 1-0. USWNT and Utah Royals FC member Kelley O’Hara, also scored her first international goal at Rio Tinto Stadium.
7.The Music
The members of URFC are not the only ones making history. After the final whistle blows, Emmy-award winning singer and songwriter, Rachel Platten, will also be the first female to host a post-game concert at the stadium. Platten will be making her Salt Lake debut by singing the national anthem prior to the game, and will perform fan favorites like “Fight Song” after the match. Tickets to the game will also offer access to the concert.
8.The Food
The best food in the area is served in advance of each game at the America First Credit Union Pavilion, on the east side of the stadium. The pavilion is where all the cool kids hang out, listening to live music, eating from an assortment of food trucks, pre-game beer and beverages, and a Utah favorite, R&R Barbecue. In-food stadium is also a plus, offering recognizable goods like Little Caesar’s Pizza, Tio Pepe’s Churros, and more.
9.The Gear
It’s a good time to be an URFC fan because everything from the team, to stadium services, to fan gear is top of the line. Pick up your inaugural season jersey or scarf on match day at the team store located at Rio Tinto Stadium (downtown store location also available). If you get to the game and realize the weather is a bit cold, then drop in to buy your gold Utah Royals FC sweater, or purchase a Utah Royals FC hat for that friend that seems to have everything. Cheer loud, and wear your jersey.
Just for Kicks: Rio Tinto Stadium
-Did you know? The stadium holds over 20,000 seats for soccer, but can be expanded to over 25,000 seats for concerts.
-Did you know? The stadium opened on October 9, 2008, in an MLS soccer match between Real Salt Lake and the New York Redbulls.
-Did you know? The RioT is home to La Barra Real, the first and largest Latino supporter group in Utah.
-Did you know? The RioT held the longest home-undefeated streak in MLS history with 34 games. That record has since been broken.
-Did you know? The first concert held at the stadium was The Eagles, in 2009. Since then, Paul McCartney, KISS, Journey, Neil Diamond, and Jason Aldean, have all preformed.
