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FOR THEIR SERVICE

Rocky Esparza x Behind The Design

By Charlotte FC

May 22^nd, 2024

MILITARY APPRECIATION

Charlotte FC partnered with local designer and tattoo artist Rocky Esparza to create a celebration of Military Service in the Carolinas. This vision and design are manifested in special edition jersey numbers that Charlotte FC will wear in their match on May 25th against the Philadelphia Union for Military Appreciation Night.

In addition to the jersey numbers, the design will be featured on Military Appreciation Night T-shirts, which will be available for purchase starting Friday, May 24, at the Team Store at Bank of America Stadium.

Scroll to learn about Rocky and the inspiration for his design.

THE DESIGN

THE DETAILS

• Watercolors are inclusive of all the military branches.

• The Ambiguous soldier looking beyond symbolizes hope and appreciation for those who served or are serving.

• The yellow ribbon is a visible reminder of the sacrifices made by service members and their families.

• The candle holds personal significance for Rocky, as his mother would burn it throughout his deployment. It served as a symbol of the duration of his absence and a heartfelt wish for his safety.

• The act of wearing a poppy serves as a tangible way for individuals to show their respect and gratitude for the service and sacrifices of veterans and fallen soldiers.

THE INSPIRATION

"...IT WAS CHALLENGING AND NERVE-RACKING, BUT IN THE END - TO ME IT'S A BEAUTIFUL THING BECAUSE I WANNA COMMEMORATE IT AND YOU KNOW...SHOW MY SUPPORT AND LOVE TO A LOT OF THE VETERANS THAT ARE OUT THERE TOO THAT ARE WITH ME AND THAT ARE ALSO GOING THROUGH WHAT WE'RE GOING THROUGH AND LET 'EM KNOW THAT WE'RE NOT ALONE. AND ART IS A WAY TO BE ABLE TO SPEAK, AND I FEEL LIKE ART IS A WAY TO BE ABLE TO TELL YOUR STORY EVEN THOUGH YOU DON'T HAVE TO..."

MEET ROCKY ESPARZA

Rocky is a U.S. Marine Veteran and former 7-year CPS forensic social worker who now owns The Lost Sheep Tattoo Shop in Concord, NC. To Rocky, every tattoo has a story, and through his Military Appreciation design, he wanted to share his story while showing support to other veterans as well.

"I think every tattoo to me is important, every tattoo that I do is important. Whether it's a small one or a big tattoo, everything has a meaning so I make sure I give it 100% every single time."

THE PASSION

After Rocky's 9-year stent in the U.S. Marines, his passion in art led him to art therapy, which he now shares with others by helping them tell their stories through their tattoos.

I have a great passion in both helping others and helping myself through the process of art therapy. I noticed that everyone had a story to tell about their past, present, and future. I became a tattoo artist in order to make the stories come alive.”

- ROCKY ESPARZA

We stand and honor all of those who have served and are currently serving our country. Their dedication is honorable, and their sacrifices are immeasurable. As part of our military appreciation, we aspire to support, to shine a light, to offer hope for veterans, active military members and their families.