Empowering Women in Sports: Amerant Partners with South Florida’s First Professional Women’s Soccer Team 

In a groundbreaking move that underscores its commitment to community engagement and empowerment, Amerant Bank is moving forward with a strategic partnership with Fort Lauderdale United FC (FTL UTD), the region’s only professional women’s soccer team. As the Official Bank of FTL UTD, Amerant Bank will play an integral role in supporting the team during its inaugural season in the USL Super League, which kicked off in August 2024. This partnership marks a significant milestone for both organizations. It is a testament to the evolving movement of women’s sports in South Florida, where the need for recognition and support has never been greater. 

Jerry Plush, the Chairman and CEO of Amerant Bank expressed the bank’s enthusiasm for this partnership, stating, “At Amerant Bank, we believe in the power of community and the importance of supporting initiatives that drive equality and opportunity,” said Jerry Plush, Chairman and CEO of Amerant Bank. “Partnering with Fort Lauderdale United FC aligns perfectly with our commitment to empowering women and fostering local talent. We are excited to be part of the USL Super League’s inaugural season and look forward to making a lasting impact on both the sport and the South Florida community.’ 

This partnership is not just about branding; it symbolizes a broader commitment to supporting women’s sports and advancing opportunities for female athletes in the community. The involvement of a prominent financial institution like Amerant Bank highlights the importance of local support for women’s professional sports, which have historically received less attention and funding compared to their male counterparts. 

The Significance of the Partnership 

The collaboration between Amerant Bank and Fort Lauderdale United FC goes beyond mere sponsorship. As the Official Bank of FTL UTD, Amerant will provide robust digital and social media exposure to increase visibility and support for women’s soccer. This exposure will promote the team and help elevate women’s sports in general, showcasing the talent and dedication of female athletes in South Florida. 

Moreover, part of this partnership benefits local youth soccer programs. By investing in youth development, Amerant Bank aims to nurture the next generation of female soccer players, allowing them to pursue their dreams on and off the field. This initiative reflects Amerant Bank’s commitment to community development and empowerment through sports. 

Fort Lauderdale United FC’s Vision 

Tommy Smith, Chairman and Founder of Fort Lauderdale United FC, shared his thoughts on the partnership: “We’re honored to have Amerant Bank, Florida’s bank of choice, and Fort Lauderdale United FC, the only women’s professional soccer team in South Florida team for this historic partnership.” 

Smith’s statement emphasizes the role that partnerships play in elevating sports at the community level.  

A Broader Commitment to Women’s Sports 

This partnership announcement follows Amerant Bank’s recent unveiling of its new brand ambassador, Averee Dovsek, a top-ranked world long-drive golf professional. Dovsek represents the bank’s dedication to elevating female athletes across various sports disciplines, further reinforcing its commitment to gender equality in athletics. 

Amerant Bank’s involvement in sports extends beyond just one partnership. The bank has strategically expanded its footprint throughout South and Central Florida, aligning itself with a diverse portfolio of sports partnerships, including teams like the Tampa Bay Rays, Miami Marlins, Miami Heat, and Florida Panthers. Additionally, the naming rights to Amerant Bank Arena showcase its dedication to sports and its strategic positioning within the South Florida community. 

The partnership between Amerant Bank and Fort Lauderdale United FC signifies a positive step forward in promoting women’s sports and empowering female athletes. By becoming the Official Bank of FTL UTD, Amerant Bank is not only supporting a professional women’s soccer team but is also playing a vital role in the broader mission of fostering equality and opportunity within the sports community. 

Looking Ahead: A New Era for Women’s Sports in South Florida 

As the USL Super League kicks off its inaugural season, fans and supporters can look forward to witnessing the impact of this partnership and the positive changes it will bring to women’s soccer in South Florida. Through initiatives aimed at youth soccer programs and community engagement, Amerant Bank and Fort Lauderdale United FC are poised to make a lasting mark in the region’s sports landscape.