The Detroit Lightning was a Major Indoor Soccer League franchise which existed for only one season, 1979–1980. The Lightning finished that season at 15–17. The team's home arena was Cobo Arena.
On May 28, 1980, at the end of the 1979–1980 season, David Schoenstadt bought the Lightning and moved the team from Detroit, Michigan to San Francisco, California where he renamed the team the San Francisco Fog.
Lynne Saunders – President and general manager Terry Fisher – Head coach
Klaas de Boer – Assistant coach Jack Nida - Operations assistant| Year | Record | Regular season | Playoffs | Avg. attendance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1979–1980 | 15–17 | 3rd Central Division | 1st Round | 3,520 |
First Team All MISL