What has a new logo, new colors, and a whole new brand?

The North Carolina Football Club, formerly known as the Carolina RailHawks … and the season starts next week!

The NCFC team kicks off its men’s pro soccer season on Saturday, March 25 against Miami FC, at WakeMed Soccer Park in Cary.

“We are happy to get the season underway,” said NCFC head coach Colin Clarke. “Right from the start, the schedule is full of exciting match-ups and we look forward to a competitive battle with the other teams. Hopefully, we can bring a championship back to North Carolina.”

The NCFC came about late last year, when RailHawks owner Steve Malik announced not only a team rebranding, but a public campaign to see the Triangle awarded a Major League Soccer franchise within 18 months, including construction on a new 20,000-seat stadium.

“We feel we are well positioned for this,” Malik said. “The market is ready for an MLS team based on our geographical location, population growth, dynamic economic environment and significant soccer participation.”

Women’s soccer too 

In January, the North Carolina Football Club announced it was adding professional women’s soccer, with the acquisition of National Women’s Soccer League 2016 champion the Western New York Flash, which has since been renamed as the North Carolina Courage.

The NC Courage also plays at WakeMed Soccer Park and begins its season on April 22 at home against Portland.

Games tickets for both teams are now on sale at NCFCTIX.com or by calling the box office at (919) 459-8144.

For more on the soccer story in Cary, visit northcarolinafc.com/home.