What is the story about?
What's Happening?
Minnesota Lynx head coach Cheryl Reeve and president of business operations Carley Knox have become investors in Minnesota Aurora FC, a community-owned amateur women's soccer team. Aurora FC aims to join the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) and has been a commercial success since its launch in 2022, attracting large crowds to its games. The team has 5,337 investors through its community ownership model and is seeking to transition to professional status. Reeve and Knox's investment is part of a broader effort to secure an NWSL expansion team for Minnesota, a process that has seen rising financial valuations for new teams. Denver recently paid a $110 million expansion fee for a new team, highlighting the financial challenges involved.
Why It's Important?
The investment by Reeve and Knox is significant as it underscores the growing interest and support for women's soccer in the U.S., particularly in Minnesota. Their involvement could help Aurora FC overcome financial hurdles and secure a spot in the NWSL, expanding the league's reach and influence. This move also reflects the broader trend of increasing investment in women's sports, which can lead to greater visibility, sponsorship opportunities, and professional growth for female athletes. The success of Aurora FC could serve as a model for other community-owned teams seeking professional status.
What's Next?
Aurora FC will continue to seek private investments to bolster its bid for an NWSL team. The league has announced that it will accept expansion teams on a rolling basis, allowing for more private negotiations. As Denver and Boston prepare to join the league next year, Aurora FC will aim to position itself as a viable candidate for future expansion. The team's success in attracting investors and maintaining high attendance could play a crucial role in its efforts to join the NWSL.
Beyond the Headlines
The investment by Reeve and Knox highlights the collaborative spirit among women's sports teams in Minnesota, where various teams support each other. This community-driven approach could foster a more inclusive and supportive environment for women's sports, encouraging further investment and development. Additionally, the move reflects a cultural shift towards recognizing and valuing women's sports, which could lead to long-term changes in how these sports are perceived and supported.
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