Norwich just scored a major win for keeping professional sports alive in eastern Connecticut. At a special meeting on April 29, the Norwich City Council authorized City Manager John Salomone to enter a lease agreement with Norwich Stadium Co., LLC—a move that will bring soccer to Dodd Stadium and secure the future of the beloved Sea Unicorns baseball team.
By February 2027, CT United F.C. will kick off at Dodd Stadium, according to Kevin Brown, president of the Norwich Community Development Corporation. But don't worry, baseball fans—Norwich Mayor Swarnjit Singh confirmed that the Sea Unicorns will continue to call the stadium home, alongside community staples like the Healthy Living Festival and Relay for Life.
The new leaseholder is André Swanston through Norwich Stadium Co., LLC, which will sublease the stadium to Norwich Athletic Co.—the owners of the Sea Unicorns. This arrangement ensures both soccer and baseball share the same field, creating a unique sports hub for the region.
Just last spring, the City Council considered selling Dodd Stadium, which has historically cost the city money. But passionate residents rallied to save it, citing the stadium's value to local quality of life and their love for baseball. Councilmember Shiela Hayes expressed gratitude to the loyal Sea Unicorns fans during the meeting, saying, "We just have to believe in the opportunities."
Councilmember Bill Nash, who previously supported selling the stadium, now sees the bigger picture. "It provides reasonable entertainment at a reasonable price," he said. Nash also envisions growth potential, noting that the upcoming World Cup and L.A. Olympics will boost soccer's popularity. "People who attend a soccer game at Dodd Stadium may return for a baseball game, and vice versa," he added.
The initial lease runs from January 1, 2027, to June 30, 2029, with three options to extend for 1 to 10 years each—approved unanimously by the council. Meanwhile, the Sea Unicorns' sublease ensures baseball remains a summer staple for years to come.
This dual-sport future at Dodd Stadium isn't just a win for Norwich—it's a home run for fans of all ages. Whether you're cheering for a goal or a grand slam, the stadium is set to become a year-round destination for affordable, family-friendly entertainment.