Richmond’s River City Sting is gearing up for the 2025 season with high hopes after making three championship appearances in the last four years.

“We have a good core group of players that are returning, and I have high hopes for this season,” said Coach Larry Jones on Friday.

The Sting capped off the 2024 regular season with a 4-1 record, securing a playoff spot. They went on to defeat the Houston Phoenix Fire 8-6, earning a trip to the National Championship against the Brick House Bricks.

As the team preps for the upcoming season, the Sting has parted ways with the Women’s Tackle Football League (WTFL) and joined the United States Pro Women’s Football League (USPWFL), offering players the opportunity to get paid.

“It is a huge step forward,” said CJ James, a returning player and owner of the Sting.

The Sting’s 2024 campaign ended in a tough 8-6 loss to the Brick House Bricks in the Legacy Bowl, held at Edward Waters University in Jacksonville, Fla., on July 20. Despite the defeat, they secured a runner-up finish.

The team’s championship history has been varied. In their undefeated inaugural 2021 season, the Sting went 5-0, capturing the title. They returned to the championship in 2022, though they fell short. The 2023 season saw a 2-4 record, with the wins coming by forfeit.

Looking ahead, the Sting is focused on improving in championship moments. “They need that ‘dog’ in them; they need to be aggressive when appropriate while still having good sportsmanship,” James said. “You have to have that champion mindset and strive to be better than you were yesterday.”

Beyond the field, the Sting is dedicated to community involvement. “We also like to get involved in the community. We will help with different events, including school field days,” James said.

The Sting is now recruiting for the upcoming spring season. Tryouts are scheduled for Oct. 19 and Oct. 26 at John Rolfe Middle School from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Women age 17 and older, regardless of athletic ability or experience, are encouraged to attend.