WPS awards franchise to Philadelphia for 2010

The city of Philadelphia was awarded a Women's Professional Soccer team on Tuesday, becoming the eighth member of the newly formed league. The team will begin play in 2010, but will make an announcement about a team name at a special ceremony in April.

"We are excited for Philadelphia to be joining WPS for the 2010 season, where together we will enjoy great soccer from world-class athletes," said Philadelphia president and CEO David Halstead in a statement. "My partner, Matt Driver, has put together an outstanding grass roots soccer organization. This organization, combined with the support from the Philadelphia communities, our MLS partners and distinctive coaching staff, will serve as a tremendous foundation for our team to be the envy of the League."

Driver, a former New England Revolution assistant, is the team's general manager and head coach and believes that Philadelphia is eager for pro soccer.

"We believe we can build and sustain a passionate fan base through lots of involvement from this soccer-loving community, and terrific play by our team," Driver said. "Nick Sakiewicz and Philadelphia MLS have provided great support to us as we have gotten this franchise off the ground -- it will be an exciting and unique partnership."

The team will receive further information about its future in April when an announcement will be made about the date of the expansion draft following the 2009 season.