Founded as a member of the Pro League in 1995, the Rhode Island Stingrays played at the third division level until 2001, making the playoffs three straight years from 1996-98.

After missing the postseason for three consecutive seasons, longtime coach and general manager Mario Periera took over ownership of the club and moved it to the Premier Development League, where it has seen steady improvement competitively, posting 10-win seasons for the first time since 1998. The club has participated in the Super Y-League and launched a W-League team in 2004.