Celebrating Gotham FC’s Championship Win

On a vibrant Monday morning, the talented players and staff of Gotham FC took the stage at City Hall, exuding pride and determination. “We’re not done yet,” they declared.

Just a day and a half after clinching the 2025 NWSL Championship, the team celebrated in style. Fans were bused in to witness the festivities on Broadway, where Mayor Eric Adams presented them with the Key to New York City during a confetti-filled event.

In a thrilling finals match, Gotham edged out the Washington Spirit 1-0, with Rose Lovell scoring a decisive goal in the second half. They made their way through the playoffs as the lowest seed, mirroring their remarkable journey in 2023, and secured their second title in just three years.

As fans cheered “MVP,” LaBelle expressed gratitude: “Thank you so much for believing in us and supporting us all season. I hope this isn’t the last one. I hope there will be many more in the future.”

The desire for more championships was a sentiment echoed by team executives.

Head coach Juan Carlos Amoros beamed with pride, noting how his players had shown unity amidst a demanding schedule, which included winning the inaugural CONCACAF W Champions Cup in May and qualifying for the FIFA Women’s Champions Cup set for early 2026.

“That’s what has driven us to not only be champions of this country, but champions of the continent. We’re by no means done,” said Amoros. “Our next step is to become world champions in January.”

General manager Yael Averbach-West emphasized Gotham’s “relentless ambition,” and midseason standout Jadyn Shaw playfully repeated a candid line that became a rallying cry: “Loser, son of a bitch.”

“Moments like this motivate us to continue moving forward with your support,” Averbach-West continued.

Throughout the day, gratitude for the fan base was a key theme.

Fans of all ages showed up dressed in light blue sweatshirts, hats, and scarves.

Some sported vintage Carli Lloyd No. 10 jerseys, others wore Emily Sonnett UVA shirts, and many flaunted the “Everyone Watches Women’s Sports” shirts, showcasing their pride.

They even brought along a shot of Fireball, a favorite of Lovell’s, and a handmade drawing of her pet dog.

Among the crowd was nine-year-old Beatrix Stepanian, who cheekily skipped school to attend the parade. “There are so many people supporting the team right now. It’s so fun to be here,” Stepanian said.

No one seems to grow weary of celebrating these accomplishments.

“From day one, our dream was not just to win,” owner Carolyn Tisch Blodgett stated. “It was about creating something iconic. Something that reflected the energy of New York, the heart of New Jersey, and the power of women’s sports. Something that could say, ‘We’re here, we’re working hard, but we’re not done yet. And we’re not even close.’