'Embracing the community:' Forward Madison FC leaders excited for season to be played in Wauwatosa

WAUWATOSA, Wis. (CBS 58) – Sports fans will soon have the opportunity to watch professional soccer in Wauwatosa.

Forward Madison FC is moving its home stadium to Hart Park due to COVID-19 restrictions in Dane County.

Leaders from the team said after looking at a dozen different venues around Wisconsin and Illinois, Hart Park was chosen.

Fans can expect socially distanced seating, a reduced overall capacity and face coverings will be required.

"In times in which events need to function differently for public health reasons, we're proud to be welcoming a professional soccer team to Wauwatosa's Hart Park stadium and encouraged by the multiple public health measures they're taking. Fans and visitors to Wauwatosa can look forward to these fast-paced, energetic games while being safe in our community," Wauwatosa Mayor Dennis McBride said in a statement.

Forward Madison FC leaders tell CBS 58 they’re excited to be back on the field.

“We’ve gotten to where we are by being the community’s cub and we are Madison’s club, but for this season, we want to make sure we are playing a positive role in the community,” Forward Madison FC COO Conor Caloia said. “We’re embracing the community and we’re excited to engage with some new fans who maybe haven’t seen our matches before and come check us out.”

The league is finalizing the schedule. Caloia believes the first home game will be around July 31.