Medina Native Creates Brand Identity for Cleveland’s New Soccer Team
A Medina graphic designer has created the complete brand identity for Cleveland’s new professional soccer team joining MLS Next Pro in 2025.
COLUMBUS, OHIO — A graphic designer from Medina has crafted the visual identity for Cleveland‘s newest professional soccer team, Forest City Cleveland, set to compete in MLS Next Pro starting in 2025.
Alex Kocher, a Medina native and professional brand designer, developed the logo, color scheme, and overall brand package for the expansion franchise. The team announced Kocher’s involvement in the branding process as part of their preparation for joining Major League Soccer’s developmental league.
Forest City Cleveland is the latest addition to MLS Next Pro, the professional development league that bridges MLS academies and the first team. The franchise will offer young players a chance to hone their skills in a competitive professional setting.
Local Designer’s Professional Background
Kocher brings extensive experience in sports branding to the project, having worked with various athletic organizations throughout his career. His design work focuses on creating memorable visual identities that connect with local communities and fan bases.
The Forest City Cleveland brand reflects the industrial heritage and cultural identity of Northeast Ohio. Kocher incorporated elements that honor Cleveland’s nickname as the “Forest City,” which dates back to the abundance of trees that once covered the area.
Team Preparation for 2025 Launch
Forest City Cleveland will begin play in the 2025 MLS Next Pro season, joining a league that currently features 29 teams across the United States and Canada. The franchise marks Cleveland’s return to professional soccer after previous iterations of professional teams in the market.
Team officials have been working to establish the organization’s infrastructure, including coaching staff, player development programs, and community partnerships. The brand identity created by Kocher serves as a foundational element for the team’s marketing and fan engagement efforts.
MLS Next Pro teams serve multiple functions within the soccer ecosystem, providing playing opportunities for MLS academy graduates, college players seeking professional experience, and international prospects looking to break into American professional soccer.
Northeast Ohio Soccer Development
The addition of Forest City Cleveland enhances the soccer scene in Northeast Ohio, offering local players professional development opportunities closer to home. The team’s presence is expected to boost youth soccer participation and interest in the region.
Kocher’s involvement in the project represents the collaboration between local talent and the growing professional soccer infrastructure in Ohio. His design work will be visible across all team materials, from jerseys and merchandise to stadium signage and digital platforms.
The team has not yet announced details about their home venue or specific roster construction plans. Forest City Cleveland joins other MLS Next Pro expansion teams preparing for the 2025 season as the league continues its growth across North American markets.
According to team officials, additional announcements regarding coaching staff, player signings, and community initiatives will be made in the coming months as Forest City Cleveland prepares for their inaugural season.
