Cheryl Reeve and Carley Knox Join Minnesota Aurora FC
Cheryl Reeve, the head coach of the Minnesota Lynx, along with Carley Knox, who oversees business operations for the team, have joined the ownership group of Minnesota Aurora FC, a grassroots women’s soccer organization aiming for a spot in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL). Reeve expressed to ESPN that their collaboration is a logical step to support the development of professional soccer in the region, highlighting the potential of the Twin Cities as a thriving market for the sport.
Current Status of the Lynx
The Lynx are currently competing in the WNBA playoffs, striving for their fifth championship title, having secured a 1-0 lead against the Phoenix Mercury in their semifinals series. This puts them in a strong position as one of only three WNBA teams with four championships, an achievement they hope to extend after falling short in last year’s finals against the New York Liberty.
Aurora FC’s Growth and Aspirations
Aurora FC has emerged as a notable success within the American soccer landscape, boasting an impressive 5,337 investors through its community ownership framework since its inception in 2022. The club has consistently drawn large crowds, often nearing full capacity in their 6,000-seat stadium, and surpassing attendance numbers of several struggling NWSL teams.
Last year, Aurora FC was among the cities that bid for a new NWSL expansion team, which ultimately went to Denver. After facing financial hurdles, Minnesota withdrew from the bidding process, recognizing the rising costs associated with NWSL team valuations. The expansion fee for the successful Denver bid reached $110 million, a stark increase from less than $2 million in previous years.
New Chapter for Aurora FC
The involvement of Reeve and Knox signals a new chapter for Aurora as it aims for professional status. The ownership group is making strides to attract private investments, with the duo’s contributions playing a vital role. Knox reiterated that the primary ambition is securing an NWSL franchise, emphasizing the strong community backing soccer enjoys in Minnesota, which has been reflected through successful women’s sports teams in the area.
NWSL Expansion and Future Prospects
Jessica Berman, NWSL commissioner, recently announced that the league will now be open to expansion teams on an ongoing basis, following constructive discussions with prospective ownership groups. Denver and Boston are set to enter the league next season, expanding the NWSL to a total of 16 teams.
Personal Connections to Soccer
Reeve and Knox, who have been season-ticket holders since Aurora’s first season in the USL W League, described the vibrant atmosphere created by fans at the stadium, something that contrasts with Reeve’s typical experience as a coach in basketball where she is focused solely on gameplay. Knox, a former NCAA Division I player and coach, illustrated her deep-rooted passion for soccer, recalling how she used to hunt for old USWNT game tapes to watch her idols.
Commitment to Women’s Sports
Both Reeve and Knox have substantial experience in professional sports, with Reeve holding three Olympic gold medals and multiple WNBA championships over her career. As Minnesota residents for the past 16 years, they recognize the community’s commitment to and understanding of women’s sports, underscoring the collaborative spirit that exists among different women’s teams in the state. This includes local champions such as the Minnesota Frost in hockey and the Minnesota Vixen in football, demonstrating the rich landscape of women’s athletics in the region.
Looking Ahead
Knox believes that Aurora’s achievements, both on and off the pitch, point towards a promising future, envisioning a professional team that will thrive with community support.
“We are fully committed to this vision,”
she remarked, confident in the ambitious path ahead.
