New Advisory Board Formed for NWSL
In a significant development for the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), a celebrity-studded advisory board has been established to enhance the league’s commercial prospects. Prominent figures such as Alex Morgan, Sue Bird, and Eli Manning are part of this new group, which includes members who are already investors in various NWSL teams.
The board consists of representatives from each of the league’s 16 teams, with up to two delegates for each. It will be overseen by NWSL commissioner Jessica Berman, who recently secured a three-year contract extension.
Beginning next year, the advisory board is set to meet twice a year to explore innovative opportunities for growth in areas such as storytelling and marketing. This announcement follows Berman’s recent extension, signaling a commitment to expanding the league’s reach and appeal.
Commenting on her involvement, Morgan, a two-time World Cup champion and investor in San Diego Wave FC, expressed enthusiasm for the potential of women’s soccer to grow beyond a sport into a broader movement. “I’m proud to be part of helping shape the next chapter for the league…” she stated.
Both Bird and Manning will represent Gotham FC on the board. Other notable celebrities involved include actress Elizabeth Banks of Boston Legacy FC, Olympic medalist Lindsey Vonn from Utah Royals, and NBA icon Magic Johnson of Washington Spirit.
While the specific influence of the advisory board is still uncertain, it has been clarified that it will collaborate with existing ownership and leadership to foster creativity within the NWSL. As with any professional sports league, there are varied opinions among NWSL owners on the best pathways for progress, highlighting an ongoing dialogue about the future of the league.
Berman noted the extraordinary talents and experiences of the board members, emphasizing their potential impact in advancing not just the league, but making a cultural statement in sports.
Inaugural members of the Advisory Board include:
● Chris Paul (Angel City FC)
● Julie Foudy (Angel City FC)
● Brandi Chastain (Bay FC)
● Sabrina Ionescu (Bay FC)
● Elizabeth Banks (Boston Legacy FC)
● Aly Raisman (Boston Legacy FC)
● Jordan Angeli (Denver Summit FC)
● Brittany Mahomes (Kansas City Current)
● Sue Bird (Gotham FC)
● Eli Manning (Gotham FC)
● Lauren Holiday (North Carolina Courage)
● Grant Hill (Orlando Pride)
● Tamia Hill (Orlando Pride)
● Joey Harrington (Portland Thorns FC)
● Bryce Young (Portland Thorns FC)
● Ken Griffey Jr. (Seattle Reign FC)
● Alex Morgan (San Diego Wave FC)
● Lindsey Vonn (Utah Royals FC)
● Dominique Dawes (Washington Spirit)
● Magic Johnson (Washington Spirit)
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