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.
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