FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
New Hendersonville Facility Opening July 18 Will Advance Athletic Training, Recreation, and Community Engagement
Hendersonville, Tennessee — July 13, 2026 — First Farmers & Merchants Bank is proud to announce its partnership with Futbol5, a premier new soccer and training complex that will officially open its doors on July 18, 2026, in Hendersonville. As the project's financial partner, First Farmers is honored to support an investment which will provide a first-class destination for athletes while creating new opportunities for recreation, training, family engagement, and community connection throughout Tennessee and beyond.
Designed to serve players of all ages and skill levels, Futbol5 is much more than a recreational soccer facility. The complex was built with a vision to help athletes develop and compete at a higher level through access to professional training resources, experienced coaching staff, and a state-of-the-art performance environment.
The facility features premium soccer fields, a modern weight training center equipped with advanced fitness and strength-conditioning equipment, and access to coaches dedicated to helping players improve their skills, athletic performance, and overall development. Whether athletes are just beginning their soccer journey or training at an elite competitive level, Futbol5 will support their growth both on and off the field.
In addition to athletic development, the complex was intentionally designed to create a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere where parents, children, and community members can gather, build relationships, and enjoy the game together. Through leagues, tournaments, training programs, and community events, Futbol5 aims to become a hub for recreation, wellness, and connection for families across the region.
"As a community bank, we're always looking for opportunities to support projects that make a meaningful difference in the places we call home," said Brad Rice, Sr. Commercial Relationship Manager for First Farmers & Merchants Bank. "Futbol5 is exactly the kind of project we're proud to help bring to life because its impact extends far beyond the playing field. This facility creates opportunities for athletic development, healthy lifestyles, family engagement, and community connection. It fills an important need in a rapidly growing market while providing young athletes with access to the training resources and coaching they need to reach their full potential. We're thrilled to support Fernando's vision because it represents an investment that will have a lasting and positive impact on our community for generations to come."
The opening of Futbol5 reflects the growing demand for quality soccer facilities and youth sports development opportunities in the region. The complex is expected to attract teams, players, and visitors from across Tennessee and the Southeast, generating increased activity for local businesses while further establishing Hendersonville as a destination for youth sports and recreation.
Fernando Crosa, owner of Futbol5, praised the partnership with First Farmers and the creative approach which helped transform his vision into reality.
"From the very beginning, Brad Rice and the team at First Farmers believed in what we were trying to accomplish," said Crosa. "Like many entrepreneurs, I had a vision, but bringing that vision to life required a financial partner willing to think creatively and work alongside us to find solutions. First Farmers took the time to understand our goals, the impact this facility could have on the community, and what it would take to make this dream a reality. Their flexibility, expertise, and commitment to finding a path forward were instrumental in getting this project across the finish line.”
"Futbol5 is more than a soccer complex. It's a place where athletes can train, compete, and develop their potential while families connect and spend time together,” said Samuel Crosa, co-owner. “Our state-of-the-art training facilities, weight room, and coaching resources are designed to help players elevate their game, while our welcoming environment ensures there's something here for everyone. We're excited to open our doors on July 18 and provide a space that will inspire athletes and strengthen our community for years to come."
For First Farmers, the partnership aligns with the bank's longstanding commitment to supporting projects that strengthen local communities, encourage economic growth, and enhance quality of life throughout Tennessee and the southeastern region. By helping entrepreneurs bring transformative ideas to life, the bank continues its mission of investing in people, businesses, and communities that create lasting impact.
Futbol5 will officially celebrate its grand opening on July 18, 2026, welcoming players, teams, families, and spectators to a facility designed to elevate athletic performance, encourage active lifestyles, and foster meaningful community connections through the game of soccer.
About First Farmers & Merchants Bank
First Farmers and Merchants Bank is a community bank serving Tennessee through 21 locations in seven counties and one production office in Chattanooga. As of March 31, 2026, First Farmers reported total assets of approximately $1.8 billion, total shareholders' equity of approximately $174 million, and administered trust assets of $6.8 billion. For more information about First Farmers, visit www.myfirstfarmers.com under "Investor Relations."
About Futbol5
Futbol5 is a premier soccer and athletic training complex located in Hendersonville, Tennessee, dedicated to providing high-quality playing facilities, professional coaching resources, strength and performance training, leagues, tournaments, and community-focused programming for athletes of all ages. The facility is designed to create opportunities for recreation, competition, athletic development, and connection while promoting the continued growth of soccer throughout Middle Tennessee and the Southeast.
For Additional Information:
Molly Hissong
Chief Marketing & Communication Officer
First Farmers and Merchants Bank
Molly.Hissong@myfirstfarmers.com
(931) 380-8372