Boston’s new National Women’s Soccer League expansion team has announced it will change its name following transgender backlash.
The decision comes after controversy surrounding its “BOS Nation FC” branding and “Too Many Balls” marketing slogan revealed last October.
The team abandoned the slogan after criticism from the transgender community, including Seattle Reign player Quinn.
The club has now decided to completely rebrand, erasing all traces of the October announcement that sparked the controversy.
Boston’s new National Women’s Soccer League expansion team has announced it will change its name following transgender backlash
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The team’s original branding event in October featured the name “BOS Nation FC” alongside the controversial slogan “Too Many Balls”.
This prompted immediate criticism from the transgender community.
Quinn, a transgender player for Seattle Reign, posted on Instagram: “Feels transphobic. Yikes.”
The backlash was swift and significant, forcing the team to quickly abandon the slogan.
The controversy highlighted tensions around language and inclusivity in women’s sports.
From us to you. pic.twitter.com/ASHFHltb5n
— Coming Soon FC (@NWSLBoston) October 16, 2024
Following the backlash, the team issued a public apology, particularly to the transgender community.
“We fully acknowledge that the content of the campaign did not reflect the safe and welcoming environment we strive to create for all, and we apologize to the LGBTQ+ community and to the trans community in particular for the hurt we caused,” the statement said.
The club also thanked those who spoke out against the slogan.
“Thank you to all who have held us accountable by calling for us to do better. We hear you and we will, together,” they added.
Earlier this month, the club hired Amina Bulman as its new chief revenue officer.
Bulman previously served as chief brand and strategy officer for the NFL’s Washington Commanders since September 2020, during that team’s transition from its “Redskins” branding.
Majority owner Jennifer Epstein thanked supporters for their feedback in a statement.
“We could not have completed this process without your input,” he said.
“We aim to build a lasting legacy that makes all our fans feel welcome, connected, and proud to wear our colors and cheer our name for generations to come.”
The issue of transgender inclusion in women’s sports has become one of the most contentious political topics in recent months.
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Multiple lawsuits and federal investigations have been prompted by situations involving trans athletes in the last six months.
Polling data suggests most Americans oppose trans inclusion in women’s sports.
A New York Times/Ipsos survey found 79% of participants believed biological males who identify as women should not be allowed in women’s sports.
Even among Democrats, 67% opposed transgender athletes competing with women.
The transgender sports issue also factored into the 2024 US election results.
A national exit poll by the Concerned Women for America legislative action committee found 70 per cent of moderate voters considered Donald Trump’s opposition to transgender inclusion in women’s sports important.
Of those surveyed, 6 per cent said it was the most important issue of all.
A further 44 per cent described it as “very important” to their voting decision.
