Sporting Jax will debut their men’s professional team in March. On Dec. 15, the team welcomed defender Dida Armstrong and attacking midfielder Luc Granitur as the first two players to join the men’s roster.
Newly appointed head coach Liam Fox is excited to have these players on his team.
“Dida and Luc are players who fit the identity we want to build from day one,” said Fox. “They’re hungry, intelligent and committed to representing this club and community the right way. I’m excited to get to work with them as we begin our first season.”
Armstrong is the son of Desmond Armstrong, a former U.S. Men’s National Team defender and 2012 National Soccer Hall of Fame inductee who became the first U.S.-born black player to appear in a FIFA World Cup.
He joins Sporting Jax after four seasons with St. Louis CITY2 in MLS NEXT Pro, bringing professional experience and a strong development background to the club’s inaugural roster.
“Being part of the first men’s team in club history is a huge honor,” said Armstrong. “Sporting Jax is building something special, and I’m excited to compete, grow and help set the standard for this group from day one.”
Granitur, a Florida native from Vero Beach, just closed out a decorated collegiate career at the University of North Florida where he captained the 2025 ASUN Championship team and earned ASUN All-Conference First Team honors. Over three seasons with the Ospreys, the dynamic attacking midfielder recorded 14 goals, nine assists and 34 points.
“Staying in Florida and representing my home state means a lot to me,” said Granitur. “From the vision of the club to the support of the community, Sporting JAX is the perfect place to start my professional career. I’m excited to help build this team and give the fans something they can be proud of.”
For more details on the men’s team including schedule information, go to sportingjax.com.
