Mikaela Shiffrin, the undisputed queen of Alpine skiing, is branching out into a completely different arena – professional women’s soccer. The Vail, Colorado native, a two-time Olympic gold medalist and the all-time record holder for World Cup victories in Alpine skiing, has officially joined the ownership group of Denver’s new National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) expansion team. This move marks a significant moment, not just for Shiffrin, but also for the rapidly growing landscape of women’s sports in the United States.
The Denver NWSL team, which is still in the process of selecting its official name, is slated to begin play next season, adding another exciting chapter to the expanding narrative of professional women’s soccer. Shiffrin’s involvement brings a substantial dose of star power and credibility to the nascent franchise. Her success on the slopes has made her a household name, and her commitment to women’s sports will undoubtedly draw attention to the Denver team and the NWSL as a whole.
“I’m beyond thrilled to join the ownership group of Denver NWSL and support something so meaningful in the community I call home,” Shiffrin declared in a public statement, emphasizing her deep connection to Colorado and her passion for supporting women’s athletics. “The sport culture in Colorado is rich and deep, and — most notably — the growth of women’s sports is one of the most exciting movements in our culture today.” Her words resonate with the growing awareness and appreciation for female athletes and the increasing investment in women’s sports leagues.
The primary owner of the Denver NWSL team is Rob Cohen, a businessman and sports enthusiast who is spearheading the effort to bring top-tier women’s soccer to the Mile High City. Under Cohen’s leadership, the team has already unveiled ambitious plans, including the construction of its own dedicated stadium. This is a groundbreaking development, as it will be only the second stadium in the NWSL specifically designed and built for a women’s team, following the Kansas City Current’s CPKC Stadium. The commitment to building a state-of-the-art facility underscores the long-term vision and dedication to establishing a successful and sustainable franchise in Denver.
In addition to the stadium, the team is also developing a dedicated training facility in Centennial, a suburb of Denver. This facility will serve as the team’s base of operations and will be used for training sessions and other team activities. Until the permanent stadium is completed, the team will play its home games in Centennial, providing fans with an opportunity to experience the excitement of NWSL soccer in a convenient and accessible location.
Shiffrin’s investment in the Denver NWSL team places her among a growing list of prominent athletes who are recognizing the potential and importance of investing in women’s sports. This trend is indicative of a larger shift in the sports industry, as athletes and celebrities alike are lending their support and resources to help elevate women’s leagues and athletes to new heights.
The involvement of high-profile figures like Shiffrin not only provides financial support but also helps to raise the profile of women’s sports and attract new fans. By associating themselves with NWSL teams, these athletes are sending a clear message that women’s sports are worthy of investment and attention.
Other notable athletes who have invested in NWSL teams include tennis stars Naomi Osaka and Ons Jabeur, who are part-owners of the Carolina Courage. In addition, NBA star Kevin Durant, former NFL quarterback Eli Manning, and WNBA legend Sue Bird are all investors in Gotham FC, the NWSL team based in New York City.
These investments demonstrate the growing recognition of the value and potential of women’s sports. As more athletes and celebrities invest in NWSL teams, the league will continue to grow in popularity and attract more fans, sponsors, and media coverage. The NWSL has experienced tremendous growth in recent years, fueled by increased investment, rising attendance, and growing media attention. The league has also benefited from the success of the U.S. Women’s National Team, which has won four World Cup titles and four Olympic gold medals.
The addition of the Denver NWSL team is further evidence of the league’s growing strength and popularity. With a dedicated ownership group, a new stadium in the works, and the support of prominent athletes like Mikaela Shiffrin, the team is poised to become a major force in the NWSL.
Shiffrin’s decision to invest in the Denver NWSL team is a testament to her commitment to her community and her belief in the power of sports to inspire and empower women. As a world-class athlete, she understands the hard work and dedication required to succeed at the highest level. She is excited to support the players and coaches of the Denver NWSL team as they strive to achieve their goals.
Her involvement is more than just a financial investment; it’s an endorsement of the league’s mission and a commitment to fostering a positive and supportive environment for female athletes. Shiffrin’s presence will undoubtedly inspire young girls and women in Colorado to pursue their dreams and to believe in their ability to achieve anything they set their minds to. The Denver NWSL team and the broader NWSL ecosystem are benefiting from a confluence of factors, including increased media coverage, growing fan engagement, and the support of high-profile investors. This combination is creating a virtuous cycle that is driving the league’s growth and success. As the NWSL continues to expand and attract new talent, it is poised to become one of the most popular and competitive women’s sports leagues in the world. The future of women’s soccer in the United States is bright, and Mikaela Shiffrin is now officially a part of that future. Her passion, dedication, and star power will undoubtedly contribute to the success of the Denver NWSL team and the continued growth of the league as a whole.
