COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. – Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC announced on Tuesday it had appointed Brad Estes as its new club President, bringing aboard the experienced executive as it moves into a new era under the ownership of Weidner Apartment Homes.

“My family and I are ecstatic to become the newest members of the Colorado Springs community,” said Estes. “From the very first meeting, it was clear that the Board and I are aligned on culture, the most important part of any organization. The Ragain family has done an incredible job building Switchbacks FC into what it is today, one of the elite clubs in the USL Championship. I look forward to building on that tradition, working collaboratively with our staff, players, supporters, sponsors, and the community.”

Estes joins the Switchbacks having previously served in the same position at Louisville City FC, where he oversaw the creation of Lynn Family Stadium and the club’s Academy program while building a robust club ecosystem that connected LouCity’s fanbase and culture and developed a deep-rooted connection between the club and the city.

“There are times when opportunities present themselves that force you to adjust your plan and take decisive action, and this is one of those times,” said Greg Cerbana, a member of the Switchbacks Board of Directors. “It was a fortuitous meeting for us to get acquainted with Brad and learn of his experience, his passion and his record of success in private business as well as within the league. It didn’t take long to convince us that he is the right person to lead this club both on and off the field, and build upon the winning tradition that’s been established here in the Springs.”

Estes joined Louisville City in 2016 as a consultant, was named Executive Vice President in 2017, was promoted to President in 2018, and stayed with the club until 2022. During his tenure, Brad oversaw the club for five seasons, including the 2017 and 2018 seasons when the club won back-to-back league USL Championship titles.

During his time in Louisville, Estes was integral to the club’s community-building efforts. He oversaw the construction of the club’s new stadium, Lynn Family Stadium, helped develop a thriving 1,000+-player youth academy, acquired the NWSL franchise rights for Racing Louisville FC, and managed the development of a new training facility and front office for the organization.

“We are thrilled to welcome Brad Estes to the Switchbacks FC organization,” Laura Neumann, Switchbacks FC Board of Directors and Vice President of Advocacy and Public Policy for Weidner Apartment Homes. “As a Louisville native, Brad’s pride for his community showed bright, and he was instrumental in all aspects of the club’s growth and influence in the market, often credited with spearheading the growth of the club into a league powerhouse.

“With his breadth of experience and community-minded focus, and his newfound love of Colorado Springs, I know he and his family – wife Emily, sons Owen and Mac, and daughter, Stella – will be a most welcome addition to our city and our entire region.”