Lessons From a Decade of Building a Pro Soccer Club From Scratch: Nick Ragain | Ep. 20

Off the Pitch

In this compelling episode, we explored the journey of Nick Ragain, President of USL Championship side Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC. Nick opened up about his unconventional path into the world of soccer, a sport that was not a part of his life until he spearheaded the Swtichbacks. He shared insights into his personal background and the unlikely story of how he transitioned from a newcomer to the game to leading a successful soccer franchise.
Nick recounted the intriguing beginnings of the Switchbacks in 2013, including how the team's name was chosen through a fan contest–revealing some of he alternative names that were considered. He described the early days of setting up the franchise, the whirlwind of activities required to transform an idea into a professional team, and the community's role in shaping the club's direction.
Delving into the complexities of launching a running a soccer club, Nick explained his approach to gathering knowledge and guidance, from consulting with seasoned professionals to studying examples of other successful franchises. He candidly discussed the challenges he faced, from unforeseen operational hurdles to the strategic decision that guided the development of the team's own stadium, Weiner Field, which opened in 2021.
The opening of Weidner Field marked a significant milestone for the Switchbacks, fundamentally changing the club's dynamics both on and off the field. Nick reflected on the impact of having a dedicated space that they can call home and how it has fostered a deeper connection with fans and bolstered the team's performance.
As he looked back on his journey with the Switchbacks so far, Nick identified a specific moment of personal pride that stood out–a testament to his dedication and collective efforts of everyone involved with the club. Tune in to hear how Nick navigated the challenges of founding and growing a soccer club, his vision for its future, and the lessons learned along the way.
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