The Rochester Rhinos were crowned champions of the United Soccer League in 2015, but this new year has not started off quite as well.
On Tuesday, USL announced that it will take control of full ownership of the team, terminating Adirondack Sports Club’s ownership of the Rhinos effective immediately.
“The USL had been working with Adirondack Sports Club over several months to rectify failures to meet USL standards, concerning both internal and external operational issues,” a statement from USL said.
“In recent days the current ownership stated they were not committed to rectify these issues, and with the long-term operation of the franchise in mind, the league made the decision to step in.”
According to the league, USL chief marketing officer Tom Veit and other league officials will work with local Rochester officials to help the franchise.
“On behalf of the USL, I am going to take every step possible to maintain the Rhinos’ position in Rochester’s sporting landscape,” Veit said in the league’s statement. “The Rhinos are open for business, and looking forward to defending their USL Championship in 2016.”
USL will operate the team ahead of the Rhinos’ title-defending 2016 season until further notice.
What do you think of this development? Think USL’s termination ownership was justified?
Share your thoughts below.
Sad place to be for a city that once dubbed itself “Soccer City USA”. Rochester was the originators of the “We’re getting a USL team and will move to MLS shortly!” mantra that every new USL team seems to use to drive up attendance (see: SAC, Louisville, SanAntonio, Charlotte,….). Problem is that schtick eventually falls flat on its face if the intent isn’t driven by realistic approach.
It will be interesting to see where the fall-out was. ASC saved the league a couple times in years past – it looks like they finally just gave up. Too bad.
USL should go to Chicago. chicago doesn’t even have a pro soccer team yet.
Shots fired.
(Most likely literally)