On Monday, March 6th, NJ/NY Gotham FC revealed their new home kits for the 2023 National Women’s Soccer League season. The black kit sports a repeating pattern of light blue sashes and features jersey partner Algorand. Details on the kit include the team name in black down the sides of the jersey and the iconic New York greeting “YERRRR” printed on the inside of the collar. Players in attendance at Gotham FC’s 2023 Media Day gave their thoughts on Gotham’s new look.
“These kits are dope. I absolutely love them,” said New Jersey native Kristen Edmonds at Gotham FC’s 2023 Media Day. “Kind of like a little nod to the past but look forward into our future. It’s got a little grit in here for us Jersey people. These are fire. I’m really excited to rock these.”
For this new kit, the elements of the sash, the gradient, and the black were all conscious decisions made by the club to ensure the jersey design represented the past, present, and future of the team.
The Sash
The reimagined 2023 Gotham FC home kit gives a nod to the past by incorporating the iconic sash as a reflection of the club’s roots, while replicating that sash into a pattern of motion that reinforces the continuous forward movement of progress towards a bold new future. The sash is a visual representation of the ever-flowing Hudson River, which embodies the literal slash that unifies New Jersey and New York as one.
The Gradient
In 2023, the sash is transformed with a gradient texture, which reflects the club’s grit and determination on the field. The gradient also captures the impassioned and unrelenting spirit that epitomizes the people of New Jersey and New York.
Back in Black
While the front of the home kit features the repeating gradient sash, the all-black back of the jersey is paired with black shorts and black socks to mirror an understated, yet chic simplicity juxtaposed with the contrasting pop of white jersey numbers.
“I like jerseys, I think they’re beautiful,” said Midge Purce. “I love that it kind of has this modern futuristic look, but still maintaining the core of what Gotham is from last year. So, it’s really cool. [The club] did a good job.”
For Gotham newcomer Yazmeen Ryan, the entire Media Day gave her a taste of what being in NJ/NY is all about. “[Media day] just shows what New York, New Jersey and Gotham are all about,” she said. “In my mind, I think about fashion and how cool everything is here. I love [the new kit], they look so good!”
For Ifeoma Onumonu, it’s those small details that really make the kit special. In particular, she loves the Gotham FC band visible down each side of the jersey.
“It represents the elements that we’re trying to hit in terms grit and representing New Jersey and New York. It’s definitely more creative. Our jerseys in the past couple of years have been a little bit more simple,” said Onumonu “I’m excited about these new kids. I think they look good. I’m enjoying the new look.”
New York native and goalkeeper Michelle Betos was sporting the new light blue goalkeeper kit at Gotham’s Media Day, but said the most important part of the jersey was not the color or the design. “I love this color blue,” she said.” But honestly, I’m just proud to have the [Gotham FC] crest on my chest.”
Gotham FC kicks off their season on March 26th with their home opener on April 1st. Tickets are available now at GothamFC.com.