VSI Tampa Flames Set For Opener

It's a new era for soccer in the Greater Brandon area with the May 6 inaugural game of the VSI Tampa Flames.

The family friendly kickoff event of the 2012 season pits the VSI Tampa Flames PDL team against the Ocala Stampede, at the J.C. Handley Sports Complex in Brandon, at 3104 S. Kings Ave.

The game is scheduled to start at 6 p.m.

The first 250 fans will receive free admission courtesy of McDonald's, sponsor of the inagural match. A children's fun zone will be on site, with numerous inflatables, a face-painter and other activities.

Members of the community and the Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce at 5:30 p.m. will participate in a ribbon-cutting, as a formal welcome to the Brandon community.

All Brandon soccer players and parents qualify for a special discounted rate. Visit the VSI Tampa Flames Web site for details.

To reserve a ticket for the inaugural game, visit vsi-flames.com. VSI Tampa Flames also is on Facebook and Twitter.

______________

About the VSI Tampa Flames

• The Brandon Flames FC recently merged with the West Florida Premier soccer club to create the VSI West Florida Flames.

• Through the association with VSI, teams will compete in the USL PDL League, USL Women’s League and the USL Super 20's.

• This association gives players an opportunity to progress in their soccer careers through senior soccer.

• Starting in 2013, the VSI Tampa Flames Pro side will compete in the USL Pro League.