Wednesday, April 30, 2003

 

EDMONTON, ALB -- A group of Edmonton investors have acquired the franchise rights to both men's and women's soccer teams. Both teams will play in the United Soccer Leagues (USL) beginning in spring of 2004.

"We have brought together a diverse group of Edmonton investors who are committed to bringing professional soccer to Edmonton in a manner that is both affordable and sustainable. Clearly, we want to develop the sport of soccer for the benefit of youth in our community," said Tom Newton, Investor Spokesperson for Edmonton Professional Soccer Ltd.

"As the largest organization of soccer leagues in North America, United Soccer Leagues is dedicated to growing the sport at the grassroots level in every community across USA and Canada. The USL is committed to a quality family entertainment experience that is accessible, exciting and educational," said David Askinas, Chief Operating Officer of United Soccer Leagues.

The Men's team will play in the USL's professional A-League. This league is the USL's showcase league. It is Division II professional soccer in the US and Division I in Canada. "It is clearly the best professional soccer available in North America, " said Askinas. The A-League is home to current and future stars of the game from over 35 countries.

The Women's team will play in the USL's international W-League. As the first international soccer league for women, the W-League provides the most complete women's pool in the world. The league is recognized as North America's best women's developmental organization.  

"We are extremely excited about bringing such a high calibre of soccer to Edmonton. Soccer is the fastest growing sport in North America and the largest participation sport in Canada. Greater Edmonton alone has more than 40,000 registered soccer players," said Greg McDannold, Director of Business Operations for Edmonton Professional Soccer Ltd.

The acquisition of these franchises is of great benefit to the Edmonton soccer community. The coaching staff and players will take a lead role in developing the sport of soccer in our region. Recruitment of coaching staff, players and front office staff will begin over the summer months.

Part of Edmonton Professional Soccer's commitment to the local soccer community is to ensure that a significant number of players are local players.
 

"Edmonton Professional Soccer Ltd. will make it a priority to field two highly competitive teams. I can assure you that the ownership and management are fully committed to providing our fans with the calibre of soccer than they deserve and with teams they can be proud of," said Wylie Stafford, President of Edmonton Professional Soccer Ltd.

The partnership is a three-year agreement that will take effect in spring of 2004.